Aberdare National Park tours and safaris

---

Photo of: Aberdare national park

---

Photo of: map of Aberdare national park

Aberdare National Park: A Photographic Journey

Situated in the central Kenyan highlands, Aberdare National Park has a distinctive mosaic of thick forest, moor, and volcanic hills, forming a haven for an abundance of fauna and aesthetically pleasing scenery. Set off on a photographic expedition to capture the foggy peaks that provide cover for elephants, leopards, and the endangered bongo antelope as they meander through verdant fern forests and bamboo thickets. The expansive views of the park, with their breathtaking waterfalls flowing into peaceful streams and vibrant birds perched in the canopy, are a photographer's dream come true. Seize the alluring splendor of this high-altitude sanctuary, where the majestic landscape undulates beneath constantly shifting skies, making it an exciting background for both formal and candid photos. The varied landscape provides a sanctuary for species and a magnificent backdrop for showcasing Aberdare National Park's dynamic and colorful environment.

What to expect

A wide range of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, East African lions, and infrequent sightings of the critically endangered black rhino, can be expected when visiting Aberdare National Park. A haven for birdwatchers, with over 250 species of birds identified, awaits them. The terrain of the park is filled with towering peaks, deep ravines, and waterfalls, offering amazing views and photo ops.

Best Time to Visit

For a number of reasons that improve the safari experience, the dry seasons of January to March and June to October are said to be the best periods to visit Aberdare National Park. Because of the lower water levels and less dense vegetation during these months due to the decreased rainfall, animals tend to concentrate near the remaining water sources, making wildlife easier to observe. This improves the chances of seeing wildlife and provides more consistent animal behavior, which makes for better views and shooting opportunities. Furthermore, the park's accessibility is enhanced by the dryer roads and trails, enabling guests to pleasantly and safely explore additional regions. In addition, the absence of mosquitoes and clearer skies enhance the whole experience, allowing guests to take longer game drives and engage in other outdoor activities without being interrupted by severe weather or torrential rain.

How to Reach

Flying into one of Kenya's main airports, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi or Moi International Airport in Mombasa, is usually required while visiting Aberdare National Park from overseas locations. Visitors can choose to fly domestically from either of these entry locations to smaller rural airstrips that are closer to the park, like those in Nanyuki or Nyahururu, which are the closest access sites. These smaller towns provide road transport options as well as charter flight services, making them well-equipped to handle tourists. Road transfers, which typically take several hours from Nairobi or Mombasa through beautiful landscapes and offer glimpses of Kenyan rural life, provide a scenic route into the park. This mix of domestic and foreign travel effectively allows visitors from all over the world to have a smooth transition from a city to the secluded splendor of Aberdare National Park.

Climate and Weather

Aberdare National Park's high elevation has a noticeable impact on the climate, which helps to explain the park's year-round generally cold temperatures. The weather can be rather nice throughout the day, but when the sun sets, the temperature frequently drops significantly, so visitors should always pack accordingly. The lengthy, heavy rains that fall from March to May and the shorter, milder rains that fall from October to December are the two main rainy seasons in the park. Increased rainfall occurs during these times, which can make some roads and trails muddy and more difficult to travel, but also significantly improves the park's verdant, lush landscapes, making them remarkably vivid and green. The park's visual splendor is enhanced by the rainy seasons, which also encourage a burst of life with flowers blooming and streams running, despite the cold and precipitation. This makes the area appealing to nature walkers and photographers.

What to Carry

When packing for a trip to Aberdare National Park, it's vital to plan for a variety of situations given its high altitude and variable weather patterns. Warm clothes, such as layered ensembles, jackets, and hats, are essential for surviving the cold, particularly in the early morning and evening when the temperature drops considerably. During the rainy seasons, wearing waterproof clothing such as raincoats and water-resistant pants will shield you from the regular downpours. Binoculars and a high-quality camera are essential for seeing wildlife and taking pictures of the breathtaking scenery. For safe and comfortable navigation of the park's difficult terrain, sturdy hiking boots are essential. In addition, because of the outside exposure, sun protection measures like hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are required to defend against the sun's rays during the day. Insect repellent is also crucial to ward off mosquitoes and other insects, especially in places with dense vegetation and near bodies of water. By bringing these things with you, you may explore Aberdare National Park's natural beauty and animals in more comfort and safety.

Accommodation Options

The Ark, Treetops Lodge, and Aberdare Country Club are just a few of the lodges and campgrounds located within the area. These include both more expensive and more affordable solutions.