Aberdare National Park
The park is renowned for its torrential waterfalls plunging from cloud-shrouded heights to spray-filled ravines. The magnificent Karuru waterfalls, whose ice-cold crystal clear waters drop an impressive 300meters, the spectacular Gura waterfalls which torrent from the opposite side of the same gorge, the sheer drop of the Chania waterfalls, and the enchanting Magura waterfalls which cascade across the yawning mouth of the Queen’s Cave.
Other picturesque and unique attractions include; the dragon teeth, which is a volcanic, rock formation assuming the rugged look of a set of teeth sitting on a jaw. They are located in the northern moorlands part of the park, south of the equator.
Aberdare is far from the classic safari experience and that’s the appeal, especially if you like the outdoors and don’t want to spend an entire safari in a vehicle. With its proximity to other parks in central Kenya, Aberdare can make a great little interlude to the savannah that the country is more famous for.
Aberdare National Park is located in central Kenya, about 100 km north of Nairobi. The park is bordered by the Aberdare Mountains to the west and the Mount Kenya National Park to the north. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, rhinos, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, hippos, and a variety of bird species.
The park’s location is ideal for wildlife conservation. The park is home to a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and swamps. This diversity of habitats provides food and shelter for a variety of wildlife. The park is also located in a remote area, which helps to protect the wildlife from human disturbance.
Aberdare National Park is a popular tourist destination, and it is easy to see why. The park is home to a variety of wildlife in a beautiful setting. Visitors can enjoy game drives, guided walks, and cultural experiences.
In addition to its wildlife, Aberdare National Park is also known for its stunning scenery. The park is home to the Aberdare Mountains, which are a beautiful range of snow-capped peaks. The park is also home to a number of waterfalls, including the Gura Falls and the Thika Falls.
Aberdare National Park is a unique and special place. It is a place where visitors can experience the beauty of nature and learn about the importance of conservation.
There are many activities that you can do in Aberdare National Park, including:
- Game drives: Game drives are the best way to see the park’s wildlife. You can see elephants, rhinos, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, hippos, and a variety of other animals. Game drives are available in the morning and evening.
- Guided walks: Guided walks are a great way to get up close to the park’s wildlife. You can follow your guide through the bush and see animals that you may not
- Visiting the Treetops Hotel: The Treetops Hotel is a hotel that is located in a treehouse in the Aberdare National Park. Visitors can stay at the hotel and enjoy stunning views of the park. The hotel is also a great place to see wildlife, as animals often come to drink from the waterhole below the hotel.
- Visiting the Gura Falls: The Gura Falls are a beautiful waterfall that is located in the Aberdare National Park. Visitors can hike to the falls and enjoy the stunning views.
- Visiting the Thika Falls: The Thika Falls are another beautiful waterfall that is located in the Aberdare National Park. Visitors can hike to the falls and enjoy the stunning views.
- Visiting the Aberdare National Park Museum: The Aberdare National Park Museum is a museum that is located in the park. The museum offers visitors a chance to learn about the park’s history, wildlife, and conservation efforts.
In addition to these activities, you can also enjoy the following in Aberdare National Park:
- Birdwatching: Aberdare National Park is a great place for birdwatching. The park is home to over 300 species of birds.
- Hiking: Aberdare National Park has a number of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the park.
- Camping: Aberdare National Park has a number of campsites where visitors can camp overnight.
No matter what your interests are, you are sure to find something to enjoy in Aberdare National Park. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, stunning scenery, and cultural experiences.
Visitors to Aberdare National Park are likely to see a variety of animals, including:
- Mammals: Elephants, rhinos, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, hippos, baboons, vervet monkeys, colobus monkeys, hyenas, and jackals.
- Birds: Over 300 species of birds, including flamingos, pelicans, storks, eagles, hawks, and owls.
Aberdare National Park is also home to several endangered species, including the eastern bongo and the giant forest hog.
Visitors can see these animals on game drives, guided walks, and night drives.
Here are some of the animals that visitors are most likely to see:
- Elephants: Elephants are the largest land mammals in the world. They are herbivores and their diet consists mainly of leaves, fruits, and bark. Elephants are social animals and live in herds of up to 100 individuals.
- Rhinos: Rhinos are large mammals that are covered in thick skin. They are herbivores and their diet consists mainly of grasses and leaves. Rhinos are solitary animals and only come together to mate or fight.
- Lions: Lions are the apex predators of the African savanna. They are carnivores and their diet consists mainly of antelope, zebras, and wildebeest. Lions live in prides of up to 30 individuals.
- Giraffes: Giraffes are the tallest land mammals in the world. They are herbivores and their diet consists mainly of leaves from tall trees. Giraffes are social animals and live in herds of up to 50 individuals.
- Buffaloes: Buffaloes are large mammals that are known for their aggressive behavior. They are herbivores and their diet consists mainly of grasses and leaves. Buffaloes are social animals and live in herds of up to 100 individuals.
If you are lucky, you may also see some of the park’s more elusive animals, such as leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas.
Aberdare National Park is a great place to see a variety of African wildlife in their natural habitat.
- The Ark:
- Location: Aberdare National Park.
- Description: A unique lodge with multiple viewing decks overlooking a waterhole and salt lick, providing excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Aberdare Country Club:
- Location: Mweiga
- Description: A colonial-style country club offering a serene setting, comfortable accommodations, and access to the Aberdare National Park.
- Treetops Lodge:
- Location: Nyeri
- Description: A historic lodge with a unique design, famous for being the place where Princess Elizabeth became Queen Elizabeth II.
- Outspan Hotel Nyeri:
- Location: Nyeri.
- Description: A hotel with a colonial charm, beautiful gardens, and proximity to Aberdare National Park.
- Aberdare Gardens Guest House:
- Location: Nyeri
- Description: A guesthouse providing a cosy and homely atmosphere for visitors exploring Aberdare National Park.
- Rhino Watch Safari Lodge:
- Location: Solio Ranch
- Description: A lodge with eco-friendly cottages, offering beautiful views of Mount Kenya and wildlife experiences.
- Tafaria Castle and Country Lodge:
- Location: Aberdare Ranges.
- Description: A unique castle-themed lodge with panoramic views, providing a blend of luxury and adventure.
- Sapper Hut at Mutarakwa:
- Description: A basic accommodation option for hikers and trekkers, providing a rustic experience in the Aberdare ranges.
- Kiandongoro Fishing Lodge:
- Description: A fishing lodge with a tranquil setting, offering a peaceful retreat close to nature.