Aberdare National Park

Aberdare National Park in Kenya, located in the central region of the country’s highlands, belongs to the least investigated and most undiscovered treasures of the country meant for people interested in wildlife, and nature and those fond of adventurous trips. Aberdare is well known for its forestry, steep hills hitherto rolling mists, and wildlife amongst others. This piece will guide you through the experiences of Aberdare National Park, the activities to be offered, and the right time to go for the trip among other points to consider when going for the trip.

What to Expect

Aberdare National Park covers an area of 767 km² with parts of Aberdare Mountain representing an altitude of 4,000m above sea level. This park has a particularly breathtaking appearance and it has features such as deep valleys and dense bamboo forests as well as open moor and some attractive waterfalls. There is plenty of wildlife and vegetation within the park and, therefore, the place is perfect for wildlife photographing and bird watching.

Wildlife: There is also a great density of wildlife in the park; one may be privileged to see elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards and rarely the bongo a rare antelope only found in the Aberdare forest. There is also a possibility of observing the African golden cat, giant forest hogs, as well as different kinds of primates such as black-and-white colobus monkeys. There are more than 250 avian species recorded in the park; these are bird species like; the Aberdare cisticola which is an endangered species, the sunbirds, and the raptors.

Tourism development in Aberdare National Park

Aberdare National Park offers an array of activities that cater to different interests, ensuring that every visitor finds something memorable to do: Aberdare National Park offers an array of activities that cater to different interests, ensuring that every visitor finds something memorable to do:

1. Game Drives: The park has a good network of surfaced roads to enable the conducting of game drives, in which one is able to traverse a number of habitat types to observe the abundance of wildlife in the park. Morning and evening means that the drives are more productive since the animals will be easily sighted in their natural environment.

2. Birdwatching: Thanks to more than 250 avian species, Aberdare is considered to be an ideal place for birding. In the montane forests and moorlands, some birding is possible and one can sight species like the Jackson’s francolin, Aberdare cisticola, and the African goshawk among others. Oh, by the way, make sure to pack your binoculars and a bird field guide!

3. Hiking and Trekking: People who love hiking and trekking exercises will find that there are many of them that can be carried out easily in the park due to the diversity of the terrains available. Perhaps one of the most traveled routes is the one that leads to the Oldonyo Lesatima, the highest mountain in the Aberdare Massifs. There is so much to enjoy on this hike, beautiful sub-alpine forests, moorlands, and the vistas at the summit.

4. Waterfall Viewing: Aberdare National Park contains several beautiful waterfalls among which are; the Karuru Falls which measures 300 meters and is identified to be the tallest falls in the country. The other waterfalls are the Chania Falls and the Gura Falls which are just as attractive as the Lujene Waterfalls and render perfect scenarios for photography and serene rest.

5. Fishing: Aberdare National Park is a haven for fishers especially those interested in fly fishing because the Chania and Guru Rivers in the area offer excellent trout fishery. Fishermen are able to fish since the lakes in the park are stocked and one can just sit back and enjoy the scenic beauty of the park.

6. Camping: Among the many attractions that are found in Aberdare, several places have been earmarked for camping for those who want to spend a night out in the middle of the woods with animals’ trills as their night companions. Privately owned facilities such as Reedbuck and Ruhuruini provide the necessities and chance to experience the bush in its basics.

Best Time to Visit

Because of the high possibility of encountering large herds of animals during this time, the best months to visit Aberdare National Park are during the dry seasons which are from June to October and from December to February. It is in these times that the climate is more easily manageable and the routes inside the park are also more manageable. Wildlife is also more or less expected to be closer to water sources and a source of water is a good place to find animals when on game drives.

However, if you are intrigued by bird-watching activity then the rainy season of March to May and October to December are considered the most favorable as many birds are most active and can easily be sighted. The waterfalls that can also be spotted at the park are also more magnificent during the rainy season due to the enhanced water flow.

Accommodation Options

Aberdare National Park offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxury lodges to budget campsites: Aberdare National Park offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxury lodges to budget campsites:

1. The Ark Lodge: This lodge with a design of Noah’s Ark is located next to a waterhole and a salt lick making it possible to watch elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos. One advantage of the lodge is that guests can observe the animals and nature, which is a very interesting experience, from the lodge.

2. Aberdare Country Club: Adjacent to the park, Aberdare Country Club is a picturesque lodge that is situated in a private game control area. The lodge gives out well-furnished rooms, good food, and other related services such as horseback riding, nature walks, etc.

3. Treetops Lodge: This is the lodge where Princess Elizabeth was informed of her accession to the throne of England, Treetops Lodge is a historical lodge constructed on a tree platform overlooking a floodlight water hole. It provides one with a vantage point of the park and has a fairly conventional ‘wild west’ outlook.

4. Public Campsites: For the low-budget or the adventurer he will find Aberdare National Park camping options at Reedbuck and Ruhuruini public campsite. These sites offer some amenities and offer the opportunity to interact with nature in an untouched environment.

Travel Tips

 – Packing: Due to the park being at high elevations then there are likely to be some drastic changes in temperatures, most especially at night. Bring heavy wear, like a good jacket, hat and gloves. Also, pack a good pair of walking shoes for the aggressive hike, an umbrella or any rainwear, and anti-insect creams.

 – Park Fees: The park entrance fee is $52 for non-residents per day, $22 for residents and Kshs. 300 for Kenyan citizens. Such fees are useful in the management and conservation of this park together with its fauna.

 – Guided Tours: Be prepared that a guide may be required for your visit. The local guides are competent regarding the features of the park; they can help you discover more about the fauna and the history of the park.

 – Health Precautions: Despite Aberdare being highly elevated in altitude malaria is still a factor in Kenya. Ask your doctor for advice before traveling and she/he may advise taking antimalarial tablets and using insect repellent.

Conclusion

There is so much to do in Aberdare National Park whether it is your first time or the tenth time, you are an adrenalin junkie or just the typical bird watcher, or even if you just want to spend time fishing. The place is a must-visit in Kenya due to facts such as that place contains many sightseeing places, wild animals, and varieties of climatic regions. If it is drama or quiet that you are after, Aberdare National Park has it all waiting for you right in the middle of Kenya’s nature. Come with your luggage and your camera ready and come and discover the landscape and fauna of Aberdare National Park!