Aberdare National Park is a scenic protected area located in the central highlands of Kenya, within Nyeri and Nyandarua counties. This park is part of the Aberdare Mountain Range and offers a unique mix of high-altitude moorlands, dense bamboo forests, waterfalls, and wildlife. It covers an area of about 767 square kilometers and is managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). Aberdare is not just a nature lover's paradise but also a historical and cultural landmark.
The park is less crowded compared to other popular Kenyan parks, making it perfect for visitors looking for peace, wildlife sightings, and cool highland weather. It also offers a chance to see the rare bongo antelope, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and many other species in their natural habitat.
How to Reach Aberdare National Park, Nyeri
Aberdare National Park is about 150 km north of Nairobi. There are several entry gates into the park, the main ones being Treetops Gate, Ark Gate, and Kiandogoro Gate. Travel options include:
- By Road: From Nairobi, you can drive or take a matatu or shuttle to Nyeri town (approximately 3–4 hours). From Nyeri, hire a taxi or tour vehicle to the park gates. Roads to some gates may require 4x4 vehicles, especially during rainy seasons.
- By Air: Local flights are available from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to Mweiga Airstrip near the park. From there, taxis or pre-arranged transfers can take you to the park entrance.
- By Tour Packages: Many local tour operators offer day trips or safari packages from Nairobi, which include transportation, park fees, and guided tours.
Weather at Aberdare National Park
Aberdare National Park has a cool, wet climate due to its high elevation, ranging from 2,000 to 4,300 meters above sea level.
- Temperature: Average temperatures range from 5°C to 20°C. It can get very chilly at night and early morning, especially in the moorlands.
- Rainfall: The park receives significant rainfall throughout the year, with long rains from March to May and short rains in October and November.
- Best Time to Visit: The dry months from January to March and June to September offer the best wildlife viewing and hiking conditions.
Timings for Visiting
The park is open to visitors all year round. However, visiting during dry months is more comfortable due to easier road access and clearer views.
- Park Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
- Entry Gates: Visitors must enter and exit the park during official hours. Overnight stays are allowed in designated lodges and camps.
Why Famous for Aberdare National Park, Nyeri?
Aberdare National Park is famous for its breathtaking scenery, cool climate, and unique wildlife. It is one of the few parks in Kenya where you can see high-altitude forests and moorland in the same visit.
- The park is known for rare animal species like the bongo antelope and black serval cat.
- It has dramatic waterfalls such as Karuru Falls (273 meters) and Gura Falls, some of the tallest in Kenya.
- Queen Elizabeth II ascended to the British throne while staying at Treetops Lodge in the park in 1952.
- The park is a key water catchment area, feeding rivers like Tana and Ewaso Nyiro.
Entry and Visit Details
- Entry Fees (as of 2024):
- Kenyan Citizens: KES 300 (Adults), KES 215 (Children)
- Residents: KES 500 (Adults), KES 215 (Children)
- Non-Residents: USD 52 (Adults), USD 35 (Children)
- Payment: Only electronic payments (MPesa, debit/credit card) are accepted at KWS gates.
- Accommodation: Options include luxury lodges like The Ark and Treetops, public campsites, and self-catering guesthouses.
- Guides: Recommended for safety and wildlife tracking, though not mandatory.
History and Architecture
The Aberdare Range is volcanic in origin and was once home to the Mau Mau freedom fighters during Kenya’s struggle for independence. The park was established in 1950 to protect the region’s diverse flora and fauna.
Architecturally, the park's lodges are designed to blend with the natural forest. Notable structures include:
- Treetops Lodge: Built on stilts, this lodge was made famous by Queen Elizabeth II’s 1952 visit.
- The Ark Lodge: Inspired by Noah’s Ark, it has decks overlooking a waterhole where wildlife gathers at night.
Things to Do in Aberdare National Park
- Game Viewing: Spot elephants, leopards, hyenas, warthogs, buffaloes, and rare species like the bongo.
- Hiking and Trekking: Trails through bamboo forests and moorlands offer great hiking opportunities.
- Waterfall Viewing: Visit Karuru, Chania, and Magura Falls—some of Kenya’s most spectacular.
- Bird Watching: Over 250 bird species including sunbirds, turacos, and hawks.
- Photography: Capture dramatic landscapes, wildlife, and highland flora.
- Night Game Viewing: Available at certain lodges with waterholes, offering a chance to spot nocturnal animals.
Facts about Aberdare National Park
- Named after Lord Aberdare, a British politician and President of the Royal Geographical Society.
- ÷ÈÓ°Ö±²¥ to the second-largest population of black rhinos in Kenya.
- Karuru Falls is the tallest waterfall in Kenya at 273 meters.
- The park plays a vital role in Kenya’s water supply and hydropower systems.
- The park’s terrain varies dramatically from dense rainforest to open moorlands.
Tips about Aberdare National Park, Nyeri
- Carry warm clothing – the park can be cold and misty, especially early mornings and evenings.
- A 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season due to muddy roads.
- Book accommodation in advance, especially lodges like The Ark and Treetops.
- Travel with a guide or ranger for safety and better wildlife spotting.
- Respect park rules – do not feed animals, litter, or make loud noises.
- Carry waterproof gear and insect repellent.
- Bring binoculars and a camera for wildlife and birdwatching.
