Aberdare National Park protects 766 square kilometres of the Aberdare Mountain Range in central Kenya, a dramatic landscape of misty moorlands, bamboo forests, deep ravines, and spectacular waterfalls. Rising from 2,100 to 4,001 metres, the park offers a completely different safari experience from the lowland savannah parks.
The park’s dense montane forests are home to rare and elusive wildlife including the melanistic (black) leopard, bongo antelope, giant forest hog, and the endangered black rhino. Elephants, buffalo, and colobus monkeys are more commonly seen, while the higher moorlands support unique alpine flora.
Two of Kenya’s most famous lodges — The Ark and Treetops — are located within the park. These tree hotels overlook illuminated waterholes where guests can watch elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and other wildlife coming to drink throughout the night. It was at Treetops that Princess Elizabeth learned of her accession to the British throne in 1952.
The Aberdare’s numerous waterfalls, including the 300-metre Karuru Falls and the picturesque Chania Falls, are highlights for hikers and nature photographers.