Aberdare National Park

Rising along the eastern wall of Kenya's Great Rift Valley, Aberdare National Park is a cool, mountainous wilderness characterised by dense montane forests, bamboo forests, high-altitude moorlands, deep ravines and spectacular waterfalls.

Established in 1950, the park covers approximately 767 km² and protects the higher elevations and eastern slopes of the Aberdare Range. Its dramatic altitude and changing vegetation create a series of distinct habitats, from lush forest to open alpine moorland.

The Aberdare is particularly rewarding for travellers interested in forest wildlife and highland scenery. Elephants and buffalo are frequently encountered, while the park also supports black rhino, leopard, giant forest hog, bushbuck, duiker, warthog and the elusive mountain bongo. Rare sightings can include black serval, golden cat and other forest species.

The landscape itself is one of the park's greatest attractions. Chania Falls, Karuru Falls, Gura Falls, Dragon Teeth, Twin Peaks and Mount Satima provide spectacular scenery and opportunities for photography and hiking.

Aberdare also has an important place in Kenya's history. At Treetops Lodge in 1952, Princess Elizabeth was staying in the Aberdare when she learned that her father, King George VI, had died - and that she had become Queen Elizabeth II.

For guests seeking something beyond the classic savannah safari, Aberdare offers a refreshing combination of mountain scenery, misty forests, wildlife, waterfalls, hiking and historic safari lodges.