Initially called Nyandarua-drying hide for their silhouette, Aberdare ranges remain one of the main physical features in Kenya. It is one of Kenya’s most pristine forest reserves. On the western side, the range drops away steeply to the Rift valley.
Location
Aberdare range is 100km north of Nairobi and stretches over a wide variety of terrain at altitudes from 2000m(6,600ft) to 4000m(13000ft). It forms part of the Aberdare Mountain Range.
The range has a wide range of landscapes from mountain peaks that rise to 4000m(13000ft) above sea level to their deep v-shaped valleys intersected by streams, rivers and waterfalls, Moorland bamboo forests and rainforests.
What To See
Aberdare range has a lot for you to feast your eyes on. You can spot lions wandering in the wild, elephants walking in herds and other wild animals like leopards and many species of primates.
Rare sightings include those of the African golden cat and the bongo. Species such as the common eland, serial live in the higher moorland. The Aberdare National Park also hosts a large Eastern block rhinoceros population and over 250 bird species including the endangered Aberdare Cristo cole, Jackson’s francolin, sparrowhawk, Africa tomahawk, Africa Goshen, African fish eagle, songbirds and clovers.
There are a series of spectacular falls along the range that you should see. The Thompson Falls in Nyahururu is one of them. You can then cool off at the crystal clear pools at the foot of the waterfalls.
What To Do
- Go for hiking trails through the Aberdares with a guide
- Go for game drives
- Horseback exploring at the foot of Aberdares
- Helicopter excursions
- Birdwatching
Facilities
- Treetops Lodge which resembles Noah’s Ark
- 8 Special campsites and public campsites
- Picnic sites
- Two Airstrips
