Aberdare National Park | Nanyuki

Aberdare National Park is located in central Kenya, covering a vast area of 767 square kilometers. The park lies within the Aberdare Mountain Range, which is part of the central highlands of Kenya. It offers a cool and misty environment, with an array of ecosystems, including dense forests, bamboo zones, moorlands, and steep valleys.

Geography and Climate

Elevation: The park's elevation ranges from 2,000 to 3,999 meters above sea level, making it one of Kenya's highest parks.

Climate: The region experiences a cool, temperate climate due to its high altitude. Rainfall varies across the park, with annual rainfall levels ranging from 1,000 mm in the northwest to over 3,000 mm in the southeast. This high rainfall contributes to the park's lush vegetation and numerous waterfalls.

Flora and Fauna

Aberdare National Park is home to diverse ecosystems and rich wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Mammals:

The park is home to a wide range of mammals, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, rhinos, and bongo antelopes.

Smaller animals like bushbucks, waterbucks, mountain reedbucks, and various species of monkeys such as the black-and-white colobus monkey can also be spotted in the park.

Birdlife: The park is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 250 bird species, including the Jackson’s spurfowl, African fish eagle, and Aberdare cisticola, a rare and endangered species.

Endangered Species:

The bongo antelope, which is one of the rarest antelopes in the world, is found here, though it is critically endangered.

The park also shelters the elusive African golden cat.

Waterfalls and Scenic Attractions

Aberdare National Park is famous for its stunning waterfalls, which are one of its key attractions.

Karuru Falls: At 273 meters, Karuru is the tallest waterfall in the park. It is a majestic sight as water cascades down the steep cliff faces.

Gura Falls: This waterfall is located in the park's southern section and is another beautiful feature of the landscape.

Chania Falls: Located on the opposite side of Karuru Falls, this waterfall is easily accessible by hiking.

Magura Falls: These falls flow near the Queen’s Cave, and are visible from some of the park's walking trails.

Activities in Aberdare National Park

Game Drives: The park offers the chance to see a variety of animals in their natural habitat. Guided game drives are available for tourists to explore the park's diverse landscapes.

Hiking: There are several trails in the park for both beginners and experienced hikers. The trails take visitors through forests, moorlands, and scenic viewpoints, offering a deeper connection to the park’s diverse environment.

Horseback Riding: Horseback safaris are an exciting way to explore the park, providing a unique vantage point for viewing wildlife.

Fishing: The park is known for its trout fishing, particularly in its mountain streams. Fishing permits are available for visitors looking to try their hand at catching the elusive trout.

Accommodation

Treetops Hotel: This historic tree hotel is famous for its connection to British royalty. Queen Elizabeth II ascended the throne in 1952 while staying at Treetops. The hotel offers a unique stay, where guests can watch wildlife come to drink at the waterholes below the lodge.

The Ark: Similar to Treetops, The Ark is another tree hotel that offers an excellent view of the forest and wildlife from elevated balconies. Guests can observe animals at the waterhole, especially at night when they are most active.

Aberdare Country Club: Located just outside the park, this lodge provides a more conventional stay with options for horseback riding, nature walks, and golf.

Historical Significance

Mau Mau Uprising: Aberdare National Park holds historical importance as one of the areas where the Mau Mau fighters sought refuge during Kenya's fight for independence from British colonial rule. The dense forests and rugged terrain provided an ideal hiding place for these freedom fighters.

Queen Elizabeth II’s Ascension: Treetops Lodge is historically significant for being the place where Queen Elizabeth II learned of her father’s death and her own ascension to the throne in 1952.

Environmental and Conservation Challenges

Aberdare National Park faces several environmental concerns, particularly due to human activities and potential infrastructural developments. A proposed 32-mile tarmac road through the park has raised concerns among conservationists, as it could disrupt wildlife corridors, impact water catchment areas, and potentially introduce invasive species. Efforts to balance conservation with development remain a critical issue for the park’s future.

Best Time to Visit

The dry seasons from June to September and January to February are ideal for visiting the park. During these months, wildlife is easier to spot as animals congregate around water sources. The cooler temperatures also make for more comfortable hiking conditions.

How to Get There

By Road: Aberdare National Park is about a 3-hour drive from Nairobi and can also be accessed from Nyeri and Naro Moru. It’s well-connected to major roads, making it accessible for visitors traveling by car.

By Air: The nearest airstrip is the Nanyuki Airstrip, located a short drive from the park. Several air services operate flights to this airstrip.

Visitor Tips

Clothing: Given the park’s cooler climate, it’s advisable to pack warm clothing, especially if visiting the high-altitude areas.

Guided Tours: While it's possible to visit the park independently, it is recommended to book a guided tour to maximize the experience, particularly for game drives and nature walks.

Wildlife Viewing: The best times for wildlife viewing are early in the morning and late afternoon, when animals are most active.

Aberdare National Park offers an unforgettable blend of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich history, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kenya. Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or someone seeking adventure, the park has something for everyone.