Aberdare National Park – A Different Face of Kenya
Aberdare National Park holidays may surprise many of you with a reserve that shows a different side of Kenya. Most would expect savannahs with acacia trees, infrequent oases, lakes, and rivers, and sparse vegetation. Well, this elevated region is filled with lush forests, waterfalls, and elusive wildlife that may hide behind the jungle’s curtains.
Getting to Aberdares
Driving from Nairobi will take you on adequately paved roads. There are other routes to take: for example, driving from Naivasha (situated 87 km/54 mi from Nairobi). Though, these routes are generally recommended for experienced drivers who aren’t afraid of more difficult mountainous routes.
Unlike other reserves in Kenya, you can’t fly directly to Aberdare National Park (for obvious reasons). On the other hand, one can fly to Nanyuki, the gateway to Mt. Kenya. From there, you can drive through Nyeri or Naro Moru all the way to the reserve’s east side. Your tour operator will usually take care of these aspects for you.
Accommodation
When it comes to Aberdare National Park accommodation, the famous The Ark and Treetops lodges are your best bet. From here, guests can basically sip refreshing drinks in the luxurious lounges, restaurants, and bars while simultaneously observing the animals go about their day in the area. Families should be advised that children under 7 aren’t allowed at The Ark.
The Aberdare Country Club is also a choice, especially if you want to go all out on your vacation. Tennis, golf, horse riding, and swimming pools are all provided as entertainment possibilities. If you prefer something more out of the ordinary, the medieval-themed Tafaria Castle Country Lodge is also an option. Its well-equipped 25 rooms offer plenty of opportunity for relaxation.
Accommodation aside, it’s time to look at what the wilds near Mt. Kenya have to offer.
Aberdare National Park Safari & Hiking
Aberdare National Park safaris will take you on a wild ride through its diverse landscape. As mentioned, the savannahs are replaced with lush green hills. Acacia trees make way for mystical bamboo forests, but also the alpine scenery.
Thundering waterfalls (such as Karuru and Chania) scattered throughout the region are the icing on the cake. Your eyes and cameras will be delighted. Hikers can take towards Elephant Hill in the Aberdare Ranges. It makes for great practice if you have your sights on Mt. Kenya.
Now, the thick jungle makes it more difficult to spot the wildlife. Still, if you’re lucky you can observe the elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos. Various species of primates (such as colobus and Sykes’ monkey) can be seen through the dense jungle.
To top it all off, you can go trout fishing and bird viewing in the area, with about 290 bird species present. In the end, Aberdare National Park shows that it can offer a well-rounded experience for every type of adventurer.