Aberdares National Park – Forest Wildlife, Waterfalls & The Ark Lodge Experience
Tucked into the central highlands of Kenya, Aberdares National Park offers a dramatically different experience compared to Kenya’s savannah parks. Known for its dense forests, misty mountain peaks, and the famous Ark Lodge overlooking a waterhole, Aberdares is a paradise for wildlife lovers and photographers.
Home to rare forest elephants, leopards, giant forest hogs, and the endangered bongo antelope, Aberdare is perfect for travelers seeking a cooler, more serene safari experience.
What Makes Aberdares National Park Unique?
Where to Stay – Aberdares Lodges & Hotels
The Ark Lodge Aberdare
Built like Noah’s Ark with flood-lit waterhole Nighttime animal viewing from your room Popular with honeymooners and photographers
Other Lodging Options:
Aberdare Country Club – classic colonial style Treetops Lodge – where Queen Elizabeth became Queen Fishing Lodge – for private group retreats
Wildlife in Aberdare National Park
Expect a different kind of safari:
Elephants (forest species)
Buffaloes
Giant forest hogs
Bongo antelopes
Black leopards (rare but possible!)
Hyenas, servals, bushbucks, and Colobus monkeys
250+ species of birds including the African green ibis
Best Time to Visit Aberdare National Park
| Season | Months | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | Jan–Feb, Jun–Oct | Best for wildlife & photography |
| Green Season | March–May, Nov | Fewer tourists, lush forest landscapes |
Aberdares is cool year-round due to its high elevation — bring layers!
Plan Your Aberdares Safari Today
Whether it’s a weekend forest retreat or a stopover on a Kenya highlands safari, we’ll build a package that fits your travel goals.
Expert guides | Private or group tours | Lodge bookings included
Get Free Quote »
WhatsApp: +254 112458884
Departures available daily
Aberdares National Park FAQs
Approx. 150 km — about 3 to 3.5 hours by road.
You’ll see elephants and buffalo, but no lions. The focus is on forest wildlife like bongos and black leopards.
Absolutely! It offers a unique forest experience with nighttime animal sightings from the lodge’s decks.
Yes — kids enjoy the lodge setup and forest trails. Some lodges offer family rooms.
Non-resident adult: $52
Kenyan adult: KES 500
Vehicle entry: KES 300–1,000 depending on type
