Javiva Adventures

Lake Nakuru: The Bucket List Safari Destination For Avid Birdwatchers

Bird watching

Lake Nakuru is popular for harbouring millions of flamingos and other bird species on its shores throughout the year. Climate change and the change in the water bring a fluctuation in the capacity of flamingos and other birds. It may be from millions to thousands, but still, the shores seem to be pink any day of the year. Birding in Lake Nakuru National Park is a great safari adventure and travel experience! It will allow you to see over 450 endemic and migratory bird species. You can combine birdwatching with other safari activities as well. Combining birdwatching with wildlife safari activities and cultural tours makes your journey a holistic travel experience.

What are the birds you can encounter during your birding safari?

Kenya’s bird diversity is stunning. The famously pink flamingos that cover Lake Nakuru’s shores make it look pink all through the year. It is also home to other endemic bird species like the pelican bird and four threatened bird species that are:  the Madagascar pond-heron, the Pallid Harrier, the Greater Spotted Eagle and the Grey-crested Helmet-shrike. Visit Lake Nakuru National Park or the nearby diverse extended vegetation, acacia woodlands, euphorbia forest and more to explore different bird species. To name a few of them are black-necked Grebe, Long-tailed widowbird, Maccoa duck, Montane white-eye, Grey-headed Gull, Northern puffback, Pallid harrier, Gull-billed Tern, Red-capped lark, Rufous-throated wryneck, Yellow-billed Stork, Rüppell’s vulture, Rüppell’s robin-chat, Little Grebe, Schalow’s wheatear, Shining sunbird, African Spoonbill, Slender-billed greenbul, Black-winged Stilt and many more.

What is the time to go for a bird-watching activity?

We organise bird watching safari throughout the year. However you will find maximum bird population just after the rains (January and July). Abundance of blue-green algae that grows during the rains and the well grown and groomed vegetation supports the bird life.

Bird Watching Tour

You will be sure to see birds any time of the day. However, the morning between 6 am to 11 am is the best time for bird watching at Lake Nakuru National Park. It is the time when most birds are leaving their nests and going out to look for food. It makes them easy to see and enjoy before they fly awake for the day.  Evening time can also prove to be perfect when the birds are returning to their nests! Different species and regions might have peak times! So, it’s always wise to check in advance with our birding safari operator.

There are more than 450 bird species you can find at Lake Nakuru National Park. You may not see them all in one morning or evening. So we suggest you spend at least 4-10 days or even more in Lake Nakuru National Park. It will help you explore and experience the multiple birds or the specific birds you want to see from very close.  You will have the opportunity to see different mammal species at the park as well.

Are birdwatching safaris suitable for all levels of birdwatchers?

Absolutely yes! Our birding safari is perfect for experienced travellers to novices. We can tailor the birding safari to everyone’s needs & preferences. We often accompany tours and provide better insights while assisting in spotting and bird identification. Let our guide know what you are looking for at the beginning of your birding safari. We can plan the journey accordingly. The expert guides we have are known for their vast experience and in-depth knowledge of Kenyan birds, habitats, and behaviours. We will help you visit multiple birding hotspots and offer you splendid photography opportunities. But remember to be respectful to the birding species, avoiding flash or anything that might disturb the birds. 

How to book a birdwatching safari?

A bird-watching safari can be a very rewarding experience. It is irresistible, no matter whether you are a newbie birdwatcher or an ardent avian birdwatcher! Do some research, consult reviews, and choose an operator that aligns with your interests and budget. We at Javiva Adventures offer bespoke and group birdwatching tours. We help you embark on your Kenyan birdwatching adventure and let you discover the diverse birdlife! We are offering a blend of safari activities that include nature, culture, and safari adventure for local and global travellers. Our sustainable safari approach ensures you have a positive travel experience. It also has a positive impact on the environment and the local communities you visit. So, why wait? Embark on your birdwatching journey with Javiva Adventures today!