In this post we will look at
2.)Getting to Aberdare National Park
3.) Aberdare National Park Entry Fee
4.) List of Hiking Trails at Aberdare Forest
5.)List of Animals at Aberdare National Park
6.)List of Birds at Aberdare National Park
7.)List of Waterfalls at Aberdare National Park
9.) FAQ about Aberdare National Park
The Aberdare National Park is one of Kenya’s most enchanting national parks, offering a lush montane landscape, cascading waterfalls,
Image of a cascading Waterfall at aberdare national park
Misty peaks, diverse wildlife, and unique viewing experiences. Located about 100 km north of Nairobi, Aberdare National park is part of the Aberdare Mountain Range in central Kenya and is located in both Nyeri and Nyandarua counties
Image of a Leopard at aberdare National park
A day trip to Aberdare National Park offers an accessible and immersive way to experience its scenic beauty and wildlife for both locals and international tourists which makes Aberdare a must-visit destination,
Image of lesatima peak at aberdare National Park
The Aberdare National Park was established in the year 1950 on May and covers 189,530 acres of the Aberdare Mountain Range. This high-altitude park, ranging from 2,100 to 4,300 meters above sea level, includes a diversity of ecosystems from bamboo forests and rainforests to alpine moorlands.
Image of magura waterfall queens cave
The Aberdares are known for their high rainfall, which feeds rivers and waterfalls throughout the region, including the famous Chania falls , Sapper Falls , Magura Falls ,Karuru and Gura Falls (fastest river in the world) , which are among the tallest in Kenya.
a buffalo and a calf at aberdare national park
Originally named Nyandarua (which means drying hide in the native tongue), this area was named by the natives because of the numerous distinctive folds that can be found here.
Image of a waterfall at aberdare national park
However, some of the early colonial settlers referred to these ranges as the White Highlands, due to the large number of European immigrants that settled here back in the 1920s, and this name was adopted by the British during this time period.
An aerial view of Magura waterfalls by Kiprono Leting
Aberdare National Park is best known as the site where in 1952, Princess Elizabeth became Queen after the death of her father King George VI, whilst staying at the Treetops Hotel.
Image of treetops at aberdare national park
Image of Aberdare national park tree tops
The Aberdare ranges was renamed in 1884 after the then president of the Royal Geographic Society at the time, Lord Aberdare, an early explorer who had explored the area for the first time.
Image of a tree at the aberdare national park
The park is home to an array of wildlife, including the Big Five (except for the lion as it is rarely seen ), as well as endangered species like the black rhino and the bongo, a rare forest antelope. It is also a haven for birdwatchers, boasting over 290 bird species, including endangered ones like the Aberdare cisticola.
An advert by KWS promoting tourism
Getting to Aberdare National Park
aberdare national park entrance gate
By Road the drive from Nairobi to the Aberdare National Park gates takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on the traffic. There are two main gates to the park: Mutubio Gate and Ark Gate. Both provide easy access to popular sights and wildlife viewing areas.
Image of mutubio gate at the Aberdare national park
Aberdare National Park Entry Fee as at 2024
Image of aberdare national park ark gate
Citizen Adult | 300Ksh |
Citizen Child | 215Ksh |
Resident Adult | 300Ksh |
Resident Child | 215Ksh |
Non-Resident Adult | 60 USD |
Non -Resident Child | 30USD |
List of Hiking Trails at Aberdare Forest
Mount Satima (4,001 M): Dragon's Teeth Trail - 16KM, 650m elevation gain.
Mount Satima (4,001 M): Wandare Trail - 12KM, 450m elevation gain.
Mount Kinangop (3,906 M): Njabini Trail - 30KM, 1,950m elevation gain.
Mount Kinangop (3,906 M): Mutarakwa Trail - 28KM, 1,350m elevation gain.
Rurimeria Hill (3,860 M) - 15KM, 1,150m elevation gain.
Table Mountain (3,791 M) - 12KM, 1,100m elevation gain.
Elephant Hill (3,657 M) - 18KM, 1,150m elevation gain.
Mount Kipipiri (3,370 M) - 18KM, 850m elevation gain.
Seven Ponds - 12KM, 1,050m elevation gain.
Gura Forest - 27KM, 650m elevation gain.
Kereita Forest - 15KM, 550m elevation gain.
Kieni Forest - 14KM, 450m elevation gain.
Kihuri Forest - 16KM, 700m elevation gain.
Manguyo Forest - 18KM, 600m elevation gain.
Njigari Forest - 18KM, 650m elevation gain.
Ragia Forest - 18KM, 500m elevation gain.
Image of an elephant at aberdare national park
One of the biggest draws of Aberdare National Park is its unique wildlife. A day trip provides ample opportunities to spot animals in their natural habitat:
Elephants
The park is home to large elephant herds, often seen grazing in the grasslands or taking shelter in the forest.
Buffaloes
buffalo at the aberdare national park
Buffalo sightings are frequent and add to the thrill of the day trip.
Black Rhino
Aberdare is one of Kenya’s rhino sanctuaries, offering a chance to spot these endangered animals.
Bongo Antelope
Image of a mountain bongo
This elusive forest antelope is a rare sight and a highlight for visitors lucky enough to see it.
Leopards and Hyenas
Image of a leopard at the aberdare national park
Predators are harder to spot due to the dense forest cover but are present within the park.
List of Birds at Aberdare National Park
With over 290 species of birds, Aberdare is a paradise for birdwatchers. Some species to look out for include:
Scarlet-tufted Sunbird: Known for its vibrant colors and rarity.
Jackson’s Francolin: Found only in high-altitude areas.
Aberdare Cisticola: An endangered bird unique to the Aberdare region.
Raptors: Several eagle species, including the crowned eagle, can be seen hunting in the park.
List of Waterfalls at Aberdare National Park
Image of karuru waterfall
Aberdare National Park is famous for its waterfalls, which can be reached by short hikes from designated viewing points:
Karuru Falls
Image of karuru waterfalls
This is Kenya's tallest and most impressive waterfall in the park, with a drop of about 273 meters (896 feet) over three stages. The first drop is around 117 meters, the second is 26 meters, and the final drop is 130 meters. Karuru Falls is surrounded by dense vegetation and offers a breathtaking view, especially after the rainy season when water flow is at its peak.
Gura Falls
ocated near Karuru Falls, Gura Falls is also a major waterfall in Aberdare. It drops approximately 300 meters (984 feet), making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Kenya. Gura Falls is known for its dramatic and steep drop, and it flows through the lush forest of the Aberdare ranges, adding to the scenic beauty of the area.
Chania Falls
This smaller yet picturesque waterfall is easily accessible and popular among visitors. Its location along the Chania River makes it a scenic spot for photography and picnicking.
elephants transported to aberdare national park
a. Game Drive
A self-drive or guided game drive is the primary activity in Aberdare. Visitors can explore the scenic road network and stop at various viewpoints and watering holes, where wildlife sightings are common.
b. Picnic and Photography
Several designated picnic sites within the park offer scenic spots for meals and rest. With mist-covered mountains, dense forests, and waterfalls, Aberdare National Park is also a photographer’s paradise, offering stunning landscapes and wildlife photography opportunities.
c. Nature Walks and Hiking
Guided nature walks around designated areas allow visitors to explore the unique flora and gain insights into the park’s ecology. Hiking is restricted in some parts due to the presence of wild animals, but the park rangers can guide you safely through designated trails, such as those leading to waterfalls.
d. Cultural Experiences
Image of Tourist visiting aberdare national park
The park is close to communities of the Kikuyu and Maasai people, who have lived near the Aberdares for centuries. Some tour packages include cultural visits, where visitors can learn about the local lifestyle, traditional practices, and conservation efforts by the communities surrounding the park.
The Aberdare Range in Kenya was named by British explorers after Lord Aberdare in recognition of his contributions to geography and exploration. The name was given during the colonial period, and it has remained associated with the mountain range and Aberdare National Park to this day.
Image of aberdare national park donors
FAQ about Aberdare National Park
Are there lions in Aberdare National Park?
Yes, there are lions in Aberdare National Park. Although lions are not as commonly seen here as in Kenya's savanna parks like Maasai Mara or Tsavo, they do inhabit the Aberdare region. Due to the park’s dense forest cover and mountainous terrain, which provides abundant hiding spots, sightings are often rarer and more challenging compared to more open landscapes.
Aberdare National Park is historically significant due to its connection with Queen Elizabeth II. In 1952, while visiting the Treetops Hotel in Aberdare, then-Princess Elizabeth learned of her father’s death and her ascension to the British throne. This event gave the park a lasting place in British and Kenyan history.
Treetops Hotel and The Ark Lodge are two iconic accommodations within the park, known for their elevated views and wildlife observation decks. These lodges allow guests to safely observe wildlife, especially nocturnal animals, as they gather around nearby waterholes and salt licks.
The Aberdare Range is a vital water catchment area for Kenya, feeding major rivers like the Tana and Athi rivers. This makes it ecologically significant for the region’s water supply, supporting agriculture, wildlife, and human settlements downstream.
Aberdare’s rugged terrain offers opportunities for hiking and mountaineering. The park includes some high-altitude areas that are ideal for adventurous hikes, such as Mount Satima, the highest point in the Aberdare Range, which reaches 4,001 meters (13,123 feet). Its varied elevation and unique plant life make it a popular destination for hikers and photographers.
Aberdare is one of the few places in Kenya where visitors can spot the bongo antelope, a rare and elusive forest species. The park also hosts elephants, buffalos, black rhinos, leopards, lions, and a variety of bird species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
Where is Aberdares located?
The Aberdare Range and Aberdare National Park are located in central Kenya, approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) north of Nairobi. The range extends along the eastern edge of the Great Rift Valley, primarily within Nyandarua County, but also reaching parts of Laikipia and Murang’a counties.
What does Aberdare mean in English?
The name "Aberdare" does not have a meaning in English but is derived from Welsh. It is named after Lord Aberdare (Henry Austin Bruce), a British politician and former President of the Royal Geographical Society. In Welsh, the term "Aberdare" loosely means "mouth of the river Dare," with "Aber" meaning "river mouth" and "Dare" being the name of a river in South Wales.
How many gates are in Aberdare National Park?
Aberdare National Park has five main gates used for entry and exit, providing access to different areas of the park namely Ark Gate ,Treetops Gate ,Kiandogoro Gate ,Shamata Gate ,Mutubio Gate
What are the peaks of Aberdare?
Mount Satima
Also known as Oldoinyo Lesatima, this is the highest peak in the Aberdare Range, reaching an elevation of 4,001 meters (13,123 feet). It is located in the northern part of the range and is known for its rocky landscape, moorlands, and stunning views, making it a popular destination for hikers.
Mount Kinangop
The second-highest peak in the range, standing at 3,906 meters (12,815 feet). It is located in the southern part of the Aberdare Range and features steep slopes and alpine vegetation, offering a more challenging hike than Mount Satima.
Mount Kipipiri
Though not always included in the Aberdare Range, it is sometimes associated with it. Mount Kipipiri rises to an elevation of 3,349 meters (10,988 feet) and is located slightly west of the main Aberdare peaks. The name "Kipipiri" means "butterfly" in Maasai, referencing the shape of the mountain.
Elephant Hill
Another notable peak, Elephant Hill stands at 3,600 meters (11,811 feet). It is a popular hiking destination with unique rock formations, heathlands, and bamboo forests along the trail.
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