Aberdare National Park is one of Kenya’s most unique and underrated safari destinations, offering a lush, mountainous contrast to the savannah landscapes found elsewhere in the country.
Overview
Location: Central Kenya, within the Aberdare Mountain Range
Size: ~767 km²
Altitude: Ranges from 2,000 to 4,000 meters (6,600 to 13,000 feet)
Established: 1950, to protect the Aberdare ecosystem
What Makes Aberdare Special?
Unique Scenery
Misty mountain forests, deep ravines, waterfalls, and moorlands
Lush bamboo groves and alpine vegetation at higher altitudes
Cool, rainy climate – ideal for hikers and nature lovers
Wildlife
Elephants, buffalos, leopards, bushbucks, and colobus monkeys
Rare species like the bongo antelope, giant forest hog, and melanistic (black) leopards
Rhinos are found in the Solio and rhino conservancies nearby, not always within the forested park itself
Birdwatching
Over 250 species of birds including Jackson’s francolin, sunbirds, goshawks, and crowned eagles
Waterfalls
Karuru Falls: Kenya’s tallest waterfall (273 meters / 896 ft)
Chania Falls and Gura Falls also offer beautiful viewpoints
Historic & Cultural Relevance
The park was once a hiding place for Mau Mau fighters during Kenya’s independence struggle
The Treetops Lodge is historically famous as the place where Queen Elizabeth II became queen in 1952 after the death of her father while she was staying there
Practical Info
Category Details
Best time to visit January–February and June–September (drier months)
How to get there ~3–4 hrs by road from Nairobi
Nearest towns: Nyeri and Naro Moru
Park fees ~$50–$60 per adult per day (varies by nationality)
Accommodation Inside: Treetops Lodge, The Ark Lodge, public campsites
Outside: Aberdare Country Club, Outspan Hotel
Type: Historic Tree Lodge Overview: Treetops is one of the most famous lodges in Kenya, set in the heart of Aberdare National Park. It's known for its rich history, as it’s where Queen Elizabeth II was informed of her father’s death in 1952. The lodge offers an iconic "treehouse" experience, where guests can enjoy wildlife viewing directly from their rooms or from the viewing platform.
Type: Tree Lodge Overview: The Ark Lodge is another famous tree lodge in Aberdare National Park. It offers a fantastic opportunity to view wildlife up close, as it is situated near a waterhole that attracts a wide variety of animals. The lodge itself is designed to resemble an ark, and its structure provides multiple levels of viewing platforms.
Type: Traditional Country Club & Lodge Overview: Aberdare Country Club is an elegant retreat located just outside Aberdare National Park. While it’s not located within the park, it offers easy access to the park and the nearby areas. The lodge is surrounded by lush gardens and scenic landscapes, providing a more traditional and tranquil environment.
Overview: This eco-lodge offers a sustainable and natural stay near Aberdare National Park. It provides guests with a rustic yet comfortable experience in an area known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. It’s an ideal choice for eco-conscious travelers.
Overview: While Sasakwa Lodge is not directly inside Aberdare National Park, it is one of the most luxurious safari accommodations in Kenya. Located in a nearby private concession, this lodge offers top-notch service, luxury, and a personalized safari experience.
Type: Boutique Lodge Overview: Kinangop Plateau Lodge offers a quieter, more secluded experience for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Located just outside the park, this charming lodge offers a cozy retreat with views of the Aberdare mountain range.
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