Aberdare National Park, located in the central highlands of Kenya, is a lush and picturesque destination known for its dense forests, dramatic waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Established in 1950, the park spans approximately 767 square kilometers (296 square miles) and is part of the Aberdare Mountain Range. Its high-altitude ecosystems and cooler climate make it a distinct safari destination.

Aberdare National Park encompasses a range of habitats, from bamboo forests and moorlands to lush montane forests. The park features steep ravines, rivers, and waterfalls, including the spectacular Karuru Falls, which plunges 273 meters (896 feet) in three steps.

2. Wildlife:

The park is home to a variety of mammals, including elephants, buffalos, leopards, bushbucks, waterbucks, and duikers. Black rhinos thrive in the park due to conservation efforts. Rare sightings include bongo antelopes, which inhabit the dense bamboo forests, and giant forest hogs. Predators such as leopards, hyenas, and serval cats are also present, along with several species of monkeys, including colobus and Sykes’ monkeys.

3. Birdlife:

Aberdare National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 250 bird species recorded.

Species include the African goshawk, sunbirds, sparrowhawks, and the rare Aberdare cisticola, found only in this region.

4. Historical Significance:

The park played a role in Kenya’s history as a hideout for the Mau Mau

fighters during the struggle for independence.

Queen Elizabeth II was staying at Treetops Hotel in the Aberdare Forest when she learned of her father’s death and her ascension to the throne in 1952.

5. Scenic Beauty:

The Aberdare Range offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including Mount Kenya to the east. The park’s unique vegetation includes giant lobelias and groundsels in the higher altitudes, giving it a primeval, otherworldly appearance.

Activities

Game Drives: Explore the park’s varied terrain to spot its elusive and unique wildlife.

Birdwatching:

A must for bird enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot rare montane species.

Nature Walks and Hiking: Trails through the forest and moorlands offer an up-close experience with the park's flora and fauna.

Waterfall Viewing: Visit stunning waterfalls such as Karuru, Gura, and Chania Falls.

Fishing:

Trout fishing is popular in the park’s rivers, such as the Guru and Chania.

The park features unique lodges such as:

Treetops Lodge: Built in the treetops, offering excellent wildlife viewing from its vantage point.

The Ark Lodge: A ship-like lodge overlooking a watering hole, perfect for nighttime wildlife observation.

Camping facilities are also available for adventurous visitors. Accessibility By Road: Aberdare is about a 2-3 hour drive from Nairobi via Nyeri or Naivasha.

Charter flights are available to nearby airstrips, such as the Nanyuki Airstrip.