8 Rare Animals to See in Aberdare National Park
Aberdare National Park is located in Nyeri and Nyandarua counties. It is characterized by dense forests and open moorlands. The park has torrential waterfalls including Karuru, Gura, Chania, and Magura waterfalls.
The park sits at an altitude of 7,000 – 14,000 ft. and covers an area of 767 sq km. Gazzeted in 1950, the park is only 180 km from Nairobi city where Nairobi National Park is located.
Aberdare Park is famous for two things. One, this is the place where the Late Queen Elizabeth received the good news that she was set to be the Queen of England after the death of her father. Second, there are treetops lodges that are majestic and offer a once-in-a-lifetime view.
If you are looking to visit Aberdare National Park, this article lays out everything you need to know or have when travelling to the park.
Aberdare National Park Fees
Aberdare National Park fees fall into two different classes. They include:
- Citizens and residents
- Non-residents/foreigners
Adult citizens and residents pay Ksh 300 at the gate while children pay Ksh 215
Adult Non-residents pay $52 at the gate while the children pay $26
Payments are done via electronic money transfer at the gate or you can reserve via the eCitizen portal.
Wildlife Species in Aberdare
Some of the species available at the park include:
- Elephants
- Rhino
- Buffalo
- Leopard
- Hyena
- Baboons
- Monkeys
- Warthog
- Zebra
- 290 bird species
- Giant Forest hog
- Golden Cat
- African Wild Cat
- African Civet Cat
- Blue Duiker.
Apart from the wildlife, there are also magnificent waterfalls including Karuru waterfalls, Chania waterfalls, Gura waterfalls, and Magura waterfalls.
Rare wildlife species in Aberdare
When vising Aberdare, you will have a chance to see rare species such as:
- Black Rhino
- Black Serval
- Black Leopard
- Eastern Bongo
- Aberdare Cisticola
- Jackson’s Francolin
- Sparry Hawk
- Goshawks
Park Activities
In Aberdare Park, there are several park activities you can undertake. They include:
- Bird watching
- Camping
- Game viewing
- Photography
- Trekking
You can access the park by road or air transport. Aberdare is 180 km from Nairobi. You can take a Matatu from Nairobi to Nyeri which is Ksh 500 and then trek 15 km to the park gate. For air transport, there’s an airstrip in Mweiga.
Conclusion
Aberdare National Park is the place for you if you want to experience rare species of birds and animals. It’s not far from Nairobi and it’s also affordable to the majority of local and international tourists.
Apart from the wildlife, you will also have a wonderful view of the majestic waterfalls and lush green forest.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is Aberdare National Park famous?
This is where the late Princess Elizabeth received news that she was set to be the next Queen of England after her father died. Additionally, there are tree tops lodges that make the park outstanding.
How much is Aberdare National Park?
For residents, the entry fee is Ksh 300 and non-residents pay $52.
Are there lions in Aberdare National Park?
Lions are rarely seen in Aberdare but you will have an amazing sight of rare species of birds.
Which is the biggest waterfall in Kenya?
Karuru waterfall in Aberdare Park is 273 meters and the highest in Kenya. It comes in 3 stages, 117 meters, 25 meters, and 130 meters.
What is found in Aberdare National Park?
The big five including, Elephants, Rhino, Buffalo, and leopards. There are also Hyenas, baboons, monkeys, zebra, and rare species of birds.
How many gates are in Aberdare National Park?
Aberdare Park has a total of eight entry gates including the Ark, Kiandongoro, Mutubio, Treetops, Rhino, Wanderis, Ruhuruini, And Shamata Gates.
How old is Aberdare Park?
Aberdare Park was gazette in 1950 and is located in Nyeri.