Explore Kenya

Aberdare National Park

Aberdare National Park is one of Kenya’s hidden gems, located in the central highlands, north of Nairobi. Known for its lush, mountainous landscape, the park is part of the Aberdare Range, which features a mix of thick forests, bamboo groves, and stunning waterfalls. The high altitude and cool climate make it a refreshing escape from the heat of lower-lying regions.

Wildlife enthusiasts will love Aberdare for its rich diversity. The park is home to large mammals like elephants, buffalos, and leopards, as well as the elusive bongo antelope, which is rarely seen elsewhere. The park is also famous for its tree lodges, like The Ark and Treetops, where visitors can stay and observe animals gathering at waterholes from the comfort of their rooms.

Aberdare’s scenic beauty is complemented by its historical significance. It’s famous as the spot where Queen Elizabeth II learned she had become queen while staying at Treetops Lodge in 1952. The combination of wildlife, history, and stunning natural landscapes makes Aberdare National Park a unique destination for travelers looking to experience a different side of Kenya’s natural beauty.

Cultural Significance

The Aberdare Range holds historical and cultural importance. It is where Princess Elizabeth of England learned of her ascension to the throne while staying at Treetops Lodge in 1952.

Overall, Aberdare National Park is a hidden gem in Kenya’s national park system, offering a peaceful, cooler, and less crowded experience compared to other parks like the Maasai Mara or Amboseli. Its combination of wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and rich history makes it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

Where to Stay in Aberdare National Park

Aberdare National Park offers a range of accommodation options that cater to different preferences, from luxury lodges to rustic campsites.

Here are some of the top places to stay within and around the park

The Ark Lodge

One of the most iconic places to stay, The Ark Lodge is built to resemble Noah's Ark and overlooks a floodlit waterhole and salt lick. Guests can enjoy unparalleled views of wildlife from the comfort of their rooms or the lodge’s various viewing decks. The lodge is renowned for its evening wildlife viewing, where animals such as elephants, buffaloes, and even leopards come to drink at the waterhole.

Treetops Lodge

Treetops is famous for its historical significance as the place where Queen Elizabeth II ascended to the throne in 1952. This unique lodge is built on stilts, offering guests an elevated view of the surrounding wilderness and a waterhole where animals frequently gather. Staying at Treetops offers an unforgettable experience of close-up wildlife viewing, especially at night.

Aberdare Country Club

Located outside the park, Aberdare Country Club is a luxurious country retreat set within its private wildlife sanctuary. It offers elegant rooms, beautiful gardens, and access to various activities such as golf, nature walks, and horse riding. The club also arranges game drives into Aberdare National Park.

Fishing Lodge

For a more intimate and peaceful stay, Fishing Lodge provides cozy cottages with self-catering facilities. It is located near some of the park’s rivers, making it a perfect spot for fishing enthusiasts. The serene setting is ideal for travelers looking for a quieter retreat surrounded by nature.

The Rhino Watch Safari Lodge

Located on the outskirts of the park, Rhino Watch Safari Lodge offers luxurious tented camps and cottages with stunning views of Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Ranges. The lodge is perfect for travelers seeking a balance between comfort and a rustic safari experience.

Mutubio Campsite

For those who prefer a more adventurous and budget-friendly option, Mutubio Campsite offers a great camping experience within the park. The campsite provides basic amenities and an opportunity to experience the park’s wilderness up close. It's suitable for travelers who enjoy a more immersive experience in nature.

Reedbuck Campsite

Another option for campers, Reedbuck Campsite is located in a scenic part of the park, providing an authentic outdoor experience. It’s a good choice for travelers seeking to connect with nature and explore the park’s diverse landscapes.

Self-Catering Banda (Sapper Hut)

For visitors who prefer self-catering, the Sapper Hut within the park offers a simple yet comfortable stay. This option is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want to explore the park independently while still enjoying basic amenities.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodation with close-up wildlife viewing, a historical lodge with royal connections, or a budget-friendly camping experience, Aberdare National Park offers a variety of places to stay that enhance your experience of this scenic and wildlife-rich region of Kenya.

Top Tourist Activities in Aberdare National Park

Aberdare National Park in Kenya is a hidden gem nestled in the Aberdare Mountain Range, offering a unique blend of wildlife, scenic beauty, and outdoor activities.

Here are the top tourist activities you can enjoy in Aberdare National Park

Game Drives

Aberdare is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and the rare black rhino. A game drive through the park offers a chance to see these animals in their natural habitat, as well as smaller mammals like bushbucks, hyenas, and baboons. You can also spot unique animals like the bongo antelope, which is rarely seen in other parts of Kenya.

Bird Watching

Aberdare National Park is a bird watcher’s paradise with over 250 bird species recorded. Bird enthusiasts can enjoy spotting species such as the African goshawk, mountain buzzard, and Hartlaub's turaco. The dense forests and varied ecosystems provide the perfect environment for a rich birdlife.

Hiking and Nature Walks

The park's scenic terrain, with its mist-covered mountains, bamboo forests, and deep valleys, makes it ideal for hiking and nature walks. Popular trails lead to spectacular waterfalls, such as Karuru Falls, the tallest in Kenya, and Gura Falls. Hikers can also explore the moorlands and peaks of the Aberdare Range, offering stunning views of the landscape.

Waterfall Visits

Aberdare is known for its magnificent waterfalls, which are a major attraction for visitors. Karuru Falls, Gura Falls, and Chania Falls are some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the park. These waterfalls provide scenic spots for photography and relaxation.

Fishing

Fishing enthusiasts can try their hand at trout fishing in the rivers and streams that flow through the park. The cold, clear waters are perfect for fishing, especially in the moorland areas where the rivers teem with trout.

Treetop Lodges and Night Game Viewing

Aberdare is famous for its unique treetop lodges, such as The Ark and Treetops Lodge, where visitors can watch wildlife come to drink at waterholes, especially at night. These lodges offer an unforgettable experience of observing nocturnal animals like leopards and hyenas from the comfort of your room or balcony.

Photography

With its diverse landscapes, waterfalls, wildlife, and panoramic views, Aberdare National Park offers plenty of opportunities for photography enthusiasts. Whether capturing the sunrise over the mountains or wildlife in action, every corner of the park presents a picture-perfect moment.

Cultural Experiences

Visitors can also engage with the local Kikuyu and Maasai communities surrounding the park to learn about their cultures, traditions, and ways of life. These cultural experiences enrich the wildlife adventure with an authentic taste of Kenya's heritage.

Aberdare National Park is a tranquil escape into nature, offering adventure, wildlife, and cultural experiences that make it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Kenya.