Found in the heart of Kenya’s Central Highlands, Aberdare National Park is a magical wilderness with mist-covered peaks, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls.
Located about 150 kilometers (3-4 hours) north of Nairobi, this park covers around 760 square kilometers and is part of the Aberdare Mountain Range, which rises to an elevation of 4,001 meters (13,130 feet) at its highest point.
Known for its breath-taking landscapes, Aberdare National Park offers a unique blend of rugged mountain terrain, bamboo forests, and moorlands. The park is also home to rare wildlife species like the endangered bongo antelope, giant forest hogs, and black leopards, along with elephants, buffalos, and lions.
Beyond wildlife, Aberdare's scenery is equally captivating. Visitors can marvel at the stunning Karuru Falls, the Gura Falls, and other beautiful streams that cut through the dense forest.
The park is popular with nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking a serene escape into Kenya’s highland beauty.
Things to Do in Aberdare
1. Game Drives
Explore the park’s diverse wildlife through guided game drives.
Look out for elephants, buffalos, leopards, hyenas, and the elusive bongo antelope. The park’s thick forests make animal spotting challenging but when you see them, the feeling is very rewarding.
2. Visit the Waterfalls
The park boasts some of Kenya’s most spectacular waterfalls:
- Karuru Falls: The tallest in the park, dropping in three steps to a total height of 273 meters.
- Gura Falls: One of the most powerful waterfalls in Kenya, plunging into a deep gorge.
- Chania Falls: Another picturesque spot, easily accessible for photography and relaxation.
3. Hiking and Nature Walks
Aberdare’s rugged terrain and scenic trails make it a hiker’s paradise. Walk through bamboo forests, moorlands, and valleys while enjoying the cool highland air.
Treks range from easy strolls to more challenging climbs up the Aberdare peaks.
4. Bird Watching
With more than 290 bird species, Aberdare National Park is a perfect destination for bird watchers. Look out for species like the Hartlaub’s turaco, African green ibis, and the rare Aberdare cisticola.
5. Night Game Viewing
Stay at one of the park’s iconic tree lodges, like The Ark or Treetops Lodge, where you can watch animals visit waterholes at night. Elephants, leopards, hyenas, and bushbucks are common nocturnal visitors.
6. Fishing
The rivers and streams in Aberdare are stocked with trout, making it an excellent spot for fly fishing. The cool mountain waters provide the perfect environment for this relaxing activity.
7. Photography and Picnics
The park’s landscapes, from misty mountain peaks to forested valleys, are a photographer’s dream. Designated picnic spots offer serene locations to relax while surrounded by nature.
Seasons & Best Time to Visit
Aberdare National Park experiences a cool, misty climate throughout the year due to its high altitude. Temperatures range between 7°C (45°F) at night and 20°C (68°F) during the day.
Dry Seasons (January to February & June to September)
These are the best months for visiting Aberdare. The roads are more accessible and wildlife is easier to spot around water sources. Hiking trails are also less slippery, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Wet Seasons (March to May & October to December)
The wet months bring heavy rains, especially between March and May.
While the lush greenery and flowing waterfalls are stunning during this time, the roads can become challenging to navigate. However, bird watchers will enjoy this period as many species are more active.
Why Visit in the Wet Season?
The wet season is perfect for travellers seeking fewer crowds, stunning landscapes, and dramatic waterfalls at their fullest. It’s also a great time for photographers who want to capture the park’s vibrant greenery and misty peaks.
How to Get There
Aberdare National Park is easily accessible from Nairobi and other parts of Kenya:
By Road
- From Nairobi, the park is approximately 150 km (3-4 hours) via the Nyeri-Nyahururu road. The main gates are Ark Gate, Treetops Gate, and Kiandogoro Gate.
- From Nyeri, it’s about a 30-minute drive to the park’s main entrance.
By Air
- The nearest airstrip is Mweiga Airstrip, located near Nyeri. Charter flights from Nairobi can be arranged for those preferring a quicker journey.
From Nearby Attractions
- From Mt. Kenya National Park, it’s about a 2-hour drive (100 km).
- From Lake Naivasha, it’s about a 3-hour drive (160 km), making it easy to combine Aberdare with other attractions in central Kenya.
Places to Stay
Aberdare offers a mix of unique tree lodges, budget campsites, and mid-range accommodations:
The Ark Lodge
This iconic tree lodge overlooks a salt lick and watering hole, offering incredible wildlife viewing right from the comfort of your room or the lodge’s viewing decks.
Treetops Lodge
Famous for being the place where Queen Elizabeth II learned of her ascension to the British throne, Treetops Lodge is a historic and cozy stay overlooking a waterhole frequented by wildlife.
Aberdare Country Club
Located outside the park, this charming country house serves as the base for visitors heading to The Ark Lodge. It offers elegant rooms, stunning gardens, and panoramic views of the Aberdare Mountains.
Public Campsites
For budget travelers, Aberdare National Park has several campsites, including Reedbuck Campsite and Chania Campsite, offering an immersive experience in the wilderness.
Nearby Attractions
1. Mt. Kenya National Park (100 km, ~2 hours)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mt. Kenya is Kenya’s highest mountain and a paradise for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers. It’s a perfect next stop for adventure seekers exploring the Central Highlands.
2. Lake Naivasha (160 km, ~3 hours)
Known for its tranquil beauty and abundant birdlife, Lake Naivasha offers activities like boat rides, bird watching, and visits to Crescent Island Game Sanctuary.
3. Ol Pejeta Conservancy (90 km, ~1.5 hours)
A wildlife conservancy near Nanyuki, Ol Pejeta is home to Kenya’s largest population of rhinos and offers big five game viewing, chimpanzee sanctuary visits, and luxury stays.
These attractions complement a visit to Aberdare, creating a well-rounded exploration of Kenya’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.
Closing Thoughts
Aberdare National Park is a hidden gem, boasting breath-taking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique experiences for adventurers and those seeking tranquillity.
Whether you’re hiking through bamboo forests, marvelling at towering waterfalls, or watching wildlife from a cosy tree lodge, Aberdare provides a unique safari experience unlike any other in Kenya.
Its proximity to Nairobi and other attractions makes it a convenient addition to your Kenya safari itinerary, especially in the Central Highlands.
With its cool climate and breath-taking beauty, Aberdare National Park is a must-visit for those looking to get lost in Kenya’s natural splendour.