Aberdare – Mystical Highlands of Kenya
Aberdare National Park, nestled in the central highlands of Kenya, is a lush mountain paradise filled with misty forests, deep valleys, cascading waterfalls, and rare wildlife. Unlike the typical savannah safari, Aberdare offers a unique blend of alpine scenery and dense rainforest — perfect for nature lovers and travelers seeking a cooler, quieter escape into the wild.
Wildlife to See:
Discover elusive and rare wildlife including the endangered black rhino, giant forest hogs, bushbucks, and the rare bongo antelope. Spot majestic elephants, leopards, buffalo, colobus monkeys, and over 250 bird species, such as the hartlaub’s turaco and Ayres’s hawk-eagle.
Best Time to Visit:
January to March & June to September — Drier months with easier forest access and better chances of wildlife sightings
-
October to December — Scenic green season, though trails may be wetter
-
Avoid April and May — Heavy rains make trails slippery and harder to navigate
What to Expect:
Misty rainforest trails, serene moorlands, wildlife viewing from treetop lodges, dramatic waterfalls like Karuru and Chania Falls, and tranquil evenings surrounded by towering cedar forests and cool mountain air.
Highlights at a Glance
-
Top Wildlife Encounters: Black Rhinos, Bongos, Leopards, Elephants, Forest Hogs
-
Best Scenic View: Karuru Falls – plunging 273 meters down forested cliffs
-
Top Activities: Game drives, Waterfall hikes, Birdwatching, Forest treks, Lodge-based wildlife viewing
-
Ideal Travel Season: January–March, June–September
Getting to Aberdare
Easily accessible from Nairobi (approx. 3–4 hours by road) via Nyeri or Mweiga towns. The park is part of the central Kenyan highlands, making it a great stop when exploring Mt. Kenya or Laikipia.
Travel Tip: A 4×4 vehicle is recommended, especially in the rainy season, due to forest terrain.
Where to Stay in Aberdare
Accommodation ranges from historic lodges to rustic forest cabins:
-
Luxury Lodges – Stay at iconic tree hotels like The Ark or Treetops, where animals come to you at night
-
Mid-range Camps and Cottages – Comfortable, cozy options within and around the park
-
Budget Self-Catering Options – Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) bandas and public campsites for the more adventurous
We’ll help you choose the perfect hideaway to suit your comfort and style.
Begin Your Highland Safari Adventure
With misty forests, rare wildlife, and magical mountain views, Aberdare National Park offers a safari experience unlike any other. Let’s start planning your unforgettable journey to Kenya’s enchanting highlands.
