Flamingos on the Rift Valley Lakes in Kenya 2024-2025

There are just a few spots on our planet which can boast 1.5 million flamingos colony

Best time: November–May

Long-legged, long-necked, and well-dressed into pink feathery coats, lesser flamingos must be top models in the world of birds. The shores of Lake Nakuru is then one of the world's greatest fashion podiums. In the peak season, local population overruns a million individuals, and the highest record was 1.5 million birds. Flamingos love the waters of Lake Nakuru for the abundance of algae they feed on. Unfortunately, recent climate changes aren't favourable for flamingos, and their numbers have been gradually decreasing.

Flamingos boom occurs in the rainy season, between November and May, when food in the lake is aplenty. However, in drier months, especially during droughts, pink flocks move north of Lake Nakuru to another famous flamingos' feeding ground in Kenya—Lake Bogoria where these birds are actually observed year-round.

Although gorgeous lesser flamingos are the main attraction of Lake Nakuru, be sure to see a range of other birds species, especially white pelicans, as well as other wildlife around Lake Nakuru National Park.

Practical info

When is the best time to see the flamingos at Lake Nakuru?

The most opportune time to view flamingos at Lake Nakuru is between November and May when there is abundant food supply during the rainy season. A population of over a million birds had been recorded during this season with 1.5 million being the highest number ever. An alternate location where these birds can be observed year-round is Lake Bogoria, which is visited as a feeding ground by flamingos.

Where can you find flamingos in Kenya besides Lake Nakuru?

Lake Bogoria is another location in Kenya where flamingos can be found year-round. Flamingos can also be found in large numbers at Lake Nakuru, particularly during the rainy season between November and May when their diet's primary source, algae, is in abundance.

How many flamingos can be found at Lake Nakuru during peak season?

A significant number of flamingos, perhaps up to over a million birds, are present at Lake Nakuru during the rainy season, particularly between November and May. A record 1.5 million flamingos was recorded at the lake, although there is concern over the impact of climate change on their numbers. Despite this, Lake Nakuru remains a suitable place to witness the birds in large numbers.

What is the main food source for flamingos at Lake Nakuru?

Algae, which is abundant at Lake Nakuru, is the primary food source for flamingos. A pair of specialized beaks equipped with filters allows flamingos to feed on up to 250 grams of algae per day. However, in the absence of abundant food during the dry months, flamingos may relocate to different feeding grounds like Lake Bogoria.

Besides flamingos, what other species of birds can be seen at Lake Nakuru National Park?

In addition to flamingos, Lake Nakuru National Park features over 400 bird species, including eagles, waterfowls, pelicans, cormorants, and herons. White Pelicans are among the most noticeable birds in the area. Several large mammals, including black and white rhinos, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and giraffes, can also be observed in the park.