Aberdare National Park Safari Tours

Located in the highlands of central Kenya’s Aberdare Range, the park lies about 150 km (93 mi) north of the capital, Nairobi.  It straddles Nyandarua and Nyeri Counties, covering 767 sq. km (296 sq. mi).

The dry conditions experienced in January-February and from June to September make these the best times to visit the park, as roads and trails are easy to navigate and wildlife easier to find.

In the comfort of FlashMc Tours safari vehicles, the drive to Aberdare National Park from Nairobi takes about 4 hours.  By air, the park is only accessible by private charter.

Yes.  Provided guests follow the guidance of guides and park authorities, visitors to the park are quite safe.  Practice standard travel safety protocols, such as not walking around unaccompanied after dark and securing your valuables.  The park is well-managed and secure.

The Big 5 – lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo are at home in Aberdare National Park.  Species seldom seen elsewhere, like bongo and giant forest hogs, share the jungle with colobus monkeys.  The endangered Aberdare cisticola is just one of over 250 species of birds recorded here.

Yes.  Bongo antelope and black rhino are two of the endangered mammals found in the park.  Elephants and mountain reedbuck also enjoy sanctuary in the park.

The terrain is generally mountainous, with fields of heather and giant lobelias, and thick montane forest.  Ravines gurgles with numerous rivers which cascade over various waterfalls, such as Karura and Chania.<

Game drives, guided walks, birdwatching, and trout fishing are popular activities in the Aberdare National Park.  Hiking is a popular pastime with numerous panoramic vistas to be enjoyed.

FlashMc Tour guides enjoy entertaining children of all ages while on safari, as do the guides employed in Aberdare National Park.  Game drives and walks can be tailored to appeal to children, with an emphasis on environmental education.

Yes, in the company of FlashMc Tour guides and those employed by the park itself, you’ll get a holistic perspective of the ecology and landscape of the park.

Yes.  The mountainous landscape, lush vegetation, and wildlife provide ample subject matter for photographers.

Game drives are offered in the morning and afternoon, when wildlife is most active.  Walks and birdwatching can be done throughout the day.  The scenic terrain lends itself to extended hikes of varying difficulty.

FlashMc Tours utilize The Ark, a quirky lodge sitting at 2,286 meters (7,500 feet) amidst the lush forests of Aberdare National Park.  

The park has viewpoints, hiking trails, picnic sites, and a visitor center for the public.  High-end lodges offer restaurants, viewing decks and hides, lounges, and gift shops.

Preservation of key montane habitats, and the species that inhabit them are the primary conservation goals of Aberdare National Park,  These require active anti-poaching, wildlife and habitat monitoring, and restoration projects.  Collaborative initiatives with neighboring communities foster goodwill, ensuring the long-term viability of the park.

By choosing to visit the park and stay in one of the eco-friendly lodges, as used by FlashMc Tours, visitors automatically contribute to financing conservation endeavors.   By then adhering to park rules and being conscientious about their environmental footprint, this support is elevated.  Opportunities exist to contribute either financially or practically to conservation organizations and community upliftment projects.

Yes.  Forest conservation, public-private collaboration, sensitive infrastructure planning, and sustainable land management are all integral to sustainability at the park.  The use of renewable energy, careful water conservation, and ecologically sound waste management are actively encouraged.

Yes.  Aberdare National Park was once the hideout of a rebel leader during the independence rebellion.  The gigantic Mugumo fig tree in the park was crucial to clandestine communications at the time.  For the local Kikuyu people, the mountains are home to their gods.

Beyond the historical importance of the area in Kenyan culture, the park remains connected to the communities as a conduit to the land.  In partnership with park authorities, communities contribute both skills and manpower to the park’s ongoing development and success.  Tourism revenue and employment opportunities stimulate the local economy.

Yes.  FlashMc Tours can arrange visits to local villages and community-based conservation and upliftment projects.

The often wet mountain environment requires a waterproof jacket on occasion.  Otherwise, clothing should be chosen that can be worn in layers, is breathable, lightweight and neutral colored.  Good walking shoes are vital for exploring the trails.  Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, bug spray, a camera and binoculars.  Don’t forget any personal medication and a first-aid kit.  FlashMc Tours provide reusable water bottles. Here is a link for our recommended Safari Clothing.

No.  Park entry fees are included in your tour package when traveling with FlashMc Tours.

All visitors must adhere to the rules and regulations.  In particular, the wildlife and environment should not be disturbed.  Littering, excessive noise, and removing plants is forbidden.  Vehicles may not venture offroad.