The Aberdares are a striking volcanic mountain range stretching from South Kinangop, east of Naivasha, up to the Laikipia Escarpment northwest of Nyahururu. This range forms the eastern wall of the Great Rift Valley, and its dramatic landscapes make Aberdare National Park one of Kenya’s most unique destinations.
The park is home to rich flora and fauna, with elephants and buffalo dominating the scene. Rare and endangered species such as the elusive bongo antelope, African wild dog, giant forest hog, black leopard, and the endemic mole rat and mole shrew can be spotted here. A thriving population of black rhinos, leopards, servals, spotted hyenas, bush pigs, reptiles, and endemic bird species also call this wilderness home.
The highest peaks are Ol Donyo Lesatima (3,999m) and Kinangop Peak (3,906m), separated by vast alpine moorlands. The park’s rugged terrain is dotted with streams and spectacular waterfalls, including Karuru Falls, Gura Falls, and Chania Falls, some plunging over 300 meters into the forest below. Beyond its beauty, Aberdare National Park is a vital water catchment area, feeding the Athi and Tana rivers as well as the Rift Valley basins.
To protect its biodiversity, the park is encircled by a 400km-long electric fence, reducing human-wildlife conflict and safeguarding species from poaching.
What to Do in Aberdare National Park
- Trekking in the northern moorlands
- Mountain climbing and hiking
- Camping under the stars
- Game drives and night wildlife viewing (at The Ark and Treetops Lodges)
- Trout fishing in crystal-clear streams
Major Attractions in Aberdare National Park
- Landscape: Ol Donyo Lesatima Peak, Kinangop Peak, Elephant Hills, Twin Hills, Table Mountains, dramatic waterfalls, and Mau Mau Caves (historic Dedan Kimathi hideout).
- History: Treetops Lodge, famously where Queen Elizabeth II learned of her accession to the British throne.
- Wildlife: Elephants, buffalo, black rhinos, bongos, wild dogs, leopards, servals, bush pigs, plus hundreds of bird species.
