Skip links

Aberdare National Park In Kenya

Overview

Aberdare National Park is a protected area located in central Kenya, approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) north of Nairobi, the capital city. It is part of the larger Aberdare Mountain Range and covers an area of about 766 square kilometers (296 square miles). The park was established in 1950 to protect the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of the Aberdare Mountains.

Diverse Wildlife: Aberdare National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including African elephants, black rhinos, leopards, African buffaloes, and various species of antelope such as waterbucks, bushbucks, and elands. The park is also known for its diverse birdlife.
Scenic Landscape: The park offers stunning landscapes, including lush forests, deep valleys, rivers, and waterfalls. The Aberdare Mountain Range is characterized by its moorland, bamboo forests, and dense rainforests.

Treetop Canopy Walk: The park is renowned for its unique treetop canopy walk, which provides visitors with an opportunity to walk along elevated walkways and view wildlife from above the trees.
Waterfalls: Aberdare National Park is known for its numerous waterfalls, including the iconic Karuru Falls, Chania Falls, and Magura Falls. These waterfalls are stunning and offer great spots for photography and relaxation.

Fishing and Trout Tree Restaurant: The park offers trout fishing opportunities in its rivers and streams. Additionally, there is a unique dining experience known as the Trout Tree Restaurant, built in a giant fig tree, offering visitors a chance to enjoy a meal within the branches of the tree.

Related Kenya Safaris

Attractions In This National Park

Aberdare National Park is a scenic and diverse protected area located in central Kenya, known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Here are some of the key attractions and activities you can enjoy in Aberdare National Park:

Wildlife:

Aberdare National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including African elephants, black rhinos, leopards, spotted hyenas, buffaloes, and various antelope species such as the bongo, eland, and bushbuck.
Scenic Landscapes:
The park is characterized by diverse landscapes, including dense forests, moorlands, and open grasslands. The Aberdare Mountain range offers beautiful views, waterfalls, and valleys.

Waterfalls:

Aberdare National Park is renowned for its stunning waterfalls, including the iconic Karuru Falls, Chania Falls, Magura Falls, and Gura Falls. These waterfalls provide excellent photography opportunities and a chance to immerse yourself in nature.

Aberdare Ranges:

The Aberdare Mountain range is a prominent feature of the park, offering opportunities for hiking and trekking. The ranges are ideal for adventure enthusiasts and provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Fishing and Trout Tree Restaurant:

The park has clear mountain streams that are ideal for trout fishing. Additionally, the Trout Tree Restaurant is a unique dining experience set in a giant fig tree where you can enjoy freshly caught trout.

Bird Watching:

Aberdare National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 250 bird species recorded. Some notable species include the Aberdare Cisticola, Jackson’s Francolin, and the African Goshawk.

Picnicking and Camping:

Several designated picnic spots and camping sites within the park provide opportunities to enjoy a relaxing day outdoors or a night under the stars amidst nature.

Mountain Climbing:

Experienced climbers can undertake the challenging ascent of Mount Satima (also known as Ol Donyo Lesatima), the highest peak in the Aberdare Mountain range.

Aberdare Country Club:

Adjacent to the park, the Aberdare Country Club offers accommodation, golfing, horseback riding, and various recreational activities. It’s a great base for exploring the park.

Treetop Lodge:

The Treetop Lodge, located in the Aberdare Forest, is famous for being the place where Princess Elizabeth (now Queen Elizabeth II) was staying when she learned of her father’s death, making her the queen. It offers a unique lodging experience with wildlife viewing from treehouse rooms.

Activities In This National Park

Aberdare national park is one of the unique safari destinations in Kenya which best suites travelers who prefer to do outdoor activities and wildlife activities. The park is one of the most admirable catchment areas in the Kenya. Aberdare National Park, located in Kenya, offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy the stunning natural beauty and wildlife that the park has to offer. Here are some popular activities you can partake in when visiting Aberdare National Park:

Game Drives:

Take a safari game drive through the park to witness the diverse wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, leopards, baboons, and various antelope species. The park is also known for its unique sightings of the elusive bongo antelope.

Birdwatching:

Aberdare National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting a rich diversity of bird species. Bring your binoculars and observe various bird species, including the endangered Aberdare cisticola, African goshawk, and sunbirds.

Guided Nature Walks:

Join guided nature walks led by experienced rangers or naturalists. These walks provide an up-close and personal experience with the flora, fauna, and diverse ecosystems within the park.

Hiking and Trekking:

Aberdare National Park offers excellent hiking and trekking opportunities, ranging from short nature trails to longer, more challenging hikes. The Aberdare Mountains offer stunning vistas, waterfalls, and diverse plant life to explore.

Fishing:

The park offers opportunities for trout fishing in the clear, mountain streams and rivers. Visitors can enjoy a day of fishing amidst the beautiful scenery of the Aberdare Mountains.

Picnics and Camping:

Enjoy a peaceful picnic in designated picnic spots within the park. For a more immersive experience, there are designated camping sites where visitors can pitch tents and spend the night surrounded by nature.

Photography:

The Aberdare National Park offers incredible photographic opportunities, whether it’s capturing the majestic wildlife, picturesque landscapes, or the mesmerizing waterfalls.

Treetop Canopy Walk:

Embark on a treetop canopy walk at the Aberdare Country Club. Walk along suspended bridges and platforms, providing a unique perspective of the forest and its inhabitants.

Cultural Experiences:

Learn about the local culture and traditions by engaging with nearby communities. Some tour operators offer cultural experiences, including visits to local villages and interactions with the indigenous communities.

Conservation and Educational Tours:

Join guided tours that focus on conservation efforts within the park. Learn about the challenges and initiatives aimed at preserving the natural environment and wildlife.

Best Time To Visit

  • Best time to visit Aberdare national park:
    The park is visited all year round also depending on your preferences and what are your expectations. Although the best time to visit the park is during the dry season which usually falls in the month of June, September to December all through February. During the dry season, the park trails are dry and easy to pass through also the vegetation is thinner thus easier to spot wild game at even at a distance.

How to get there

How to get to Aberdare National Park: The park has got several routes from which you can access the park as follows

Aberdare Park

Aberdare National Park is located in central Kenya, about 100 kilometers north of Nairobi. Here are the general steps to get to Aberdare National Park:

Flights to Nairobi:

If you’re traveling from outside Kenya, the first step is to book a flight to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, Kenya.

Travel from Nairobi to Aberdare National Park:

From Nairobi, you have several options to reach Aberdare National Park, including by road.

By Road:

Rent a car: You can rent a car in Nairobi and drive to Aberdare National Park. Ensure you have a reliable map or GPS for navigation.

Take a taxi or hire a driver:

You can hire a taxi or a private driver to take you to Aberdare National Park from Nairobi.

Public transportation:

Public buses and matatus (shared minivans) operate between Nairobi and Nyeri, which is near Aberdare National Park. From Nyeri, you can take another form of transportation to the park.

By Tour Operator:

Consider booking a guided tour or safari through a reputable tour operator. Many tour operators offer packages that include transportation to and from Aberdare National Park.

Travel from Nyeri to Aberdare National Park:

Aberdare National Park is located near Nyeri town. From Nyeri, you can hire a taxi or use other local transportation options to reach the park.

Entrance and Permits:

Upon arrival at Aberdare National Park, you’ll need to pay entrance fees and any applicable permits for the activities you plan to undertake in the park.

Booking your safari with us is one of the easiest options to get to Aberdare national park, we will take on your transportation, Accommodation and meals, Professional safari guide among others and also ensure you get the best of your safari experience in Aberdare national park.

Accommodations:

The park has a range of accommodations, including lodges, tented camps, and self-catering cottages, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife in comfort.
Aberdare National Park provides an excellent safari experience and a chance to see Kenya’s wildlife and natural landscapes in a unique and diverse setting.

Request Quote

Fill in and send the safari request form, we shall respond as soon as we receive your message.
You can also reach us on Whats-app Number: +256753750983 for urgent requests.

    Budget Indication:



    Tour Highlights

    • Day 1: Transferring from Nairobi to the Lake Nakuru
    • Day 2: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara National Reserve
    • Day 3: A Full day in the Masai Mara
    • Day 4: Transfer back to Nairobi

    Why Book This Tour?

    • Tour can depart on any day of the week.
    • Tour can be customized
    • Transportation in Landcruiser or minivan with pop-up for game viewing
    • Suitable for solo travelers

    Kenya National Parks

    Masai Mara National Reserve

    Read Our Reviews

    This website uses cookies to improve your web experience.