Stakeholders in the Tourism sector have called for concerted effort in restoring Lake Nakuru National Park’s glory.
In the recent past the Park which is the main tourist attraction site in Nakuru County has received negative publicity over an incident where a fisherman Brian Odhiambo reportedly disappeared in the hands of Kenya Wild Service officers and there is an active court case over the matter.
However, to restore the glory of the Park and boost tourism, stakeholders in the Tourism industry have embarked on a journey- that of marketing the Lake Nakuru National Park as one of the key tourists attraction site.
Through The “Destination Lake Nakuru National Park Activation” initiative, the stakeholders are on a mission to ensure the Park fully contributes to the economy.
Speaking on Thursday May 8, 2025 during activation event at the Park, Nakuru County Tourism Association Chairperson David Mwangi lauded the move saying it will go a long way in ensuring the potential of the Park is realized.
He called on Nakuru residents to be patriotic and embrace local tourism.
“We organized this as Nakuru County Tourism Association (NCTA) to promote Lake Nakuru as a top tourist destination,” he stated.
The event provided an opportunity for stakeholders to network, discuss potential partnerships, and collaborate on marketing and tourism initiatives.
According to Mwangi, This is part of a broader strategy by the Nakuru County Tourism Association to boost tourism in Nakuru County, recognizing the importance of effective marketing and promoting its diverse tourism products.
Nakuru County Executive Committee Member for Trade and Tourism Stephen Kuria who graced the event lauded NCTA for organizing such an event terming it key in shaping tourism in Nakuru.
While admitting that Brian Odhiambo’s case has had negative impact on Lake Nakuru National Park, Kuria stated that it is not too late to redeem the image of the Park.
He called on stakeholders include media to work closely in marketing Nakuru as a tourist destination.
“We need to work in collaboration towards marketing not only Lake Nakuru National Park, but all the other tourists attraction destinations in this county,” stated Kuria.
He added that even though the Park is under National Government, consultations are on to see to it that the County also benefits in terms of revenue.
At the same time, CECM Kuria revealed that soon the County Tourism Board will be in place adding that it will be key in matters tourism and marketing of various tourists destinations in Nakuru.
Nakuru County Chief officer for Tourism John Koech on his part lauded stakeholders for such an initiative.
He urged journalists to tell the good stories of Nakuru as a tourist destination.
“When we work closely with journalists, then shall we realize that Nakuru has got a lot that we can talk into,” he said.
Assistant Director Kenya Wildlife Service Mr. Gideon Kibati highlighted some of the initiatives that have been introduced to help address the challenges of human wildlife conflicts in Nakuru.
The officer revealed that he has been holding meetings with various stakeholders and members of the community towards the same.
According to him, a peaceful Nakuru that is free of crime is key in matters tourism.
“We are trying to meet various groups including the security teams and the community in addressing challenges of human wildlife conflicts around Nakuru,” he stared.
Sentiments echoed by Senior Warden at Lake Nakuru National Park Emmanuel Koech.
He highlighted strides already being made, including ongoing training of local residents and surrounding communities on the importance of wildlife conservation and emphasized the role of the community in safeguarding natural resources and ensuring sustainable tourism.
Koech also used the moment to call on journalists to work closely with the management of Lake Nakuru National Park in telling the good stories that will in turn attract investors.
It should be noted that the 188Km² Lake Nakuru National Park is a gem that holds great tourism potential, and through collaboration, its glory can be brought back.
The Park is a gem for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, with a number of hotels offering great hospitality.
If you have never visited the Lake Nakuru National Park, then here are the top reasons why should make a visit.
1. Flamingo Spectacle: The park’s soda lake is famous for hosting thousands (sometimes millions) of vibrant pink flamingos, creating a stunning visual feast, especially when they gather along the shores.
2. Rich Birdlife: With over 450 bird species, including pelicans, cormorants, and African fish eagles, it’s a paradise for birdwatchers, particularly around the lake and acacia forests.
3. Rhino Sanctuary: The park is a key conservation area for both black and white rhinos, offering excellent chances to see these endangered giants up close.
4. Diverse Wildlife: Spot leopards, lions, buffalo, zebras, giraffes, and the rare Rothschild’s giraffe, with open savannahs and woodlands making game viewing accessible.
5. Scenic Beauty: The lake, surrounded by escarpments, waterfalls (like Makalia Falls), and acacia forests, offers breathtaking landscapes, especially at viewpoints like Baboon Cliff.
6. Tree-Climbing Lions: Lake Nakuru is one of the few places where you might spot lions lounging in trees, a unique behavior that adds thrill to game drives.
7. Compact Park Size: Covering 188 km², the park’s manageable size ensures concentrated wildlife sightings, ideal for a day trip or short visit.
8. Conservation Impact: Visiting supports efforts to protect rhinos and other species, as well as habitat restoration, contributing to the park’s ecological health.
9. Year-Round Appeal: While flamingo numbers fluctuate, the park’s resident wildlife and scenic beauty make it a rewarding destination any time of year.
10. Accessibility and Amenities: Just a 2-3 hour drive from Nairobi, the park offers lodges, campsites, and well-maintained roads, making it easy to explore.
