Discover Aberdare National Park: Where Forest Meets Wildlife

Nestled in the central highlands of Kenya, Aberdare National Park offers a safari experience unlike any other. Known for its misty mountains, dense rainforest, and unique wildlife, the park is a hidden gem for travelers looking to escape the crowds of the savannah.

With its cool mountain climate, towering bamboo forests, and dramatic waterfalls, Aberdare is the perfect destination for photographers, hikers, and wildlife lovers. Whether you’re seeking a luxury lodge stay or an adventurous self-drive safari, Aberdare delivers an unforgettable blend of nature and comfort.

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Top Attractions in Aberdare National Park

Wildlife Viewing

While not your typical Big Five savannah, Aberdare still delivers exciting wildlife encounters:

• Elephants, buffaloes, and giant forest hogs

• Elusive leopards, hyenas, and serval cats

• Rare sightings of the black rhino

• Unique forest species like bongo antelope and Colobus monkeys

Majestic Waterfalls

Aberdare is home to some of Kenya’s most breathtaking waterfalls:

• Karuru Falls – The tallest waterfall in Kenya (273 meters)

• Gura Falls – One of the most powerful and scenic falls in the country

• Ideal for hiking, photography, and nature picnics

Rainforest & Moorlands

From thick rainforests in the lower zones to open moorlands above 3,000 meters, Aberdare offers dramatic landscapes that change with altitude.

Unique Lodges on Stilts

Stay at iconic forest lodges like:

• The Ark Lodge – Built like Noah’s Ark, with a floodlit waterhole for nighttime animal viewing

• Treetops Lodge – Historic stay where Queen Elizabeth II was vacationing when she became queen

• Aberdare Country Club – Great for relaxation, golfing, and scenic views

How to Get to Aberdare National Park

• By Road: Approx. 3–4 hours (160 km) from Nairobi via Nyeri or Naivasha

• By Air: Scheduled flights to Nanyuki airstrip, followed by a short drive to the park

• Park Gates: Treetops Gate, Mutubio Gate, Ruhuruini Gate, Kiandongoro Gate

Accommodation Options in Aberdare

• Luxury: The Ark Lodge, Aberdare Country Club

• Mid-range: Rhino Watch Safari Lodge, Sangare Gardens

• Budget & Camping: Fishing Lodge, public campsites near Chania Falls

Note: Most lodges offer guided game drives and nature walks with expert rangers.

Best Time to Visit Aberdare National Park

Aberdare is open year-round, but the best seasons are:

• Dry Season (June to October) – Best for wildlife viewing

• Short Dry Season (January to February) – Great for hiking and clear views

The park is cooler than most safari parks due to its altitude. Pack warm layers!

Activities in Aberdare National Park

Game drives through forest and moorland

Nature walks & birdwatching (over 250 bird species!)

Trout fishing in mountain streams and rivers

Photography of waterfalls, wildlife, and lush landscapes

Nighttime animal viewing from floodlit lodges

Why Visit Aberdare National Park?

• Less crowded than popular parks like Maasai Mara or Amboseli

• Unique highland scenery with waterfalls and mountain streams

• Ideal for honeymooners, photographers, and second-time safari goers

• Historic lodges and cool mountain ambiance

Book Your Aberdare Safari Today

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway from Nairobi or a stop on your Kenya safari circuit, Aberdare National Park is the perfect destination to relax, reconnect with nature, and enjoy Kenya’s lush highlands in style.

Contact us today to customize your Aberdare safari package with game drives, luxury stays, and guided tours.