When I arrived at the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) bus pick-up point at the Railway Station near Pinkam Roundabout, I initially wondered if I was in the wrong place.

A quick check with the security guard reassured me I was indeed at the right spot.

Soon, more people began gathering—some alone, others accompanied by children. The buzz of excitement and colorful face paint hinted at the day’s special nature.

After an hour of waiting, the bus finally arrived, dropping off the first group that had visited Lake Nakuru National Park earlier in the morning.

Visitors waiting for the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) bus at the pick-up point at Railways Station on December 26, 2024.

Photo credit: Muthoni Wanjiku/Mtaa Wangu

Among those waiting was Vivian Njeri, accompanied by her two children. She shared that she had promised them a visit to the park during the Christmas holiday and was fulfilling her word.

“We were just at home with nothing much to do. Since I’d promised my kids a trip and will be heading back to work soon, I thought the day after Christmas was perfect,” she explained.

Njeri noted that the KWS bus service had been a significant help, saving her from the cost of hiring a private car to access the park.

John Bett, another Nakuru resident, said the tough economic times had prevented him from taking his family upcountry for the holidays. Instead, he opted for a memorable local experience.

“My family and I couldn’t afford to travel upcountry, but I didn’t want them to feel left out. My son is especially excited about visiting Lake Nakuru National Park,” Bett shared.

Visitor board the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) bus at the Railways Station pick-up point on December 26, 2024.

Photo credit: Muthoni Wanjiku/Mtaa Wangu

“This is my first time at the park, and I’m really hoping to see all of the Big Five,” he said.

According to Lake Nakuru National Park’s manager, David Odul, the re-introduction of the KWS bus service has significantly boosted local visitor numbers during this Christmas season.

“The bus now makes two trips daily throughout this festive season week, compared to the usual Saturday and Sunday schedule. Many people want to visit the park during the holidays,” Odul said.

The first trip departs at 9:00 a.m., providing a three-hour game drive before returning to town at 12:30 p.m. The second trip begins at 2:00 p.m. Odul also noted a surge in family visits and an increase in young people taking advantage of the service.

Visitors queue to board the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) bus at the Railways Station pick-up point on December 26, 2024..

Photo credit: Muthoni Wanjiku/Mtaa Wangu

For Kenyan citizens, entry charges are Sh1,000 for adults and Sh500 for children. The bus makes several stops within the park, giving visitors ample opportunities to capture memorable moments.

Hidden paradise or public nuisance? How locals turned Free Area’s open field into a Green lodging

Author Spotlight

Muthoni Wanjiku