Price On Request
Quick Summary
- Tour ID: 10
- Traveller: Non-resident
Destination | Accommodation |
---|---|
Aberdare National Park |
Camp/Lodge |
Overview
Perched on the eastern edge of the Great Rift Valley, the Aberdares, also known as Nyandarua, offers a majestic overlook of the landscape. This region boasts two primary peaks – Lesatima to the north and Kinangop to the south. The Aberdares are home to diverse wildlife, with various species concealed amidst the densely forested slopes and the expansive upper moorlands. The experience of walking through this terrain is both refreshing and serene, accompanied by the presence of crystal-clear mountain streams. The journey commences beneath the bamboo forest, ascending into the moorlands. While traversing the African bush involves some inherent risks, encounters with large game are not anticipated. To ensure safety, our knowledgeable and armed game ranger, familiar with the area and animal behavior, guides the expedition.
Prices Inclusive Of
✅ Transport in a comfortable safari van or 4x4 Land Cruiser.
✅ Accommodation (lodge or camp) on full board.
✅ Park entrance fees.
✅ Professional guide/driver.
✅ Daily game drives as per itinerary.
Prices Exclusive Of
❌ International/domestic flights.
❌ Visa fees.
❌ Travel insurance.
❌ Drinks, laundry, and personal expenses.
❌ Gratuities for guide/driver.
Tour Schedule
Day 1: Arrival & Introduction to Aberdare National Park
Morning:
- Departure from Nairobi
Start your adventure with a drive from Nairobi (approximately 3.5 to 4 hours) to Aberdare National Park. Alternatively, you can fly from Nairobi to Nanyuki and take a short transfer to the park. The journey offers scenic views as you ascend the Aberdare Mountain Range, with rolling hills, tea plantations, and beautiful landscapes.
Mid-Morning:
- Arrival & Check-in at Your Lodge or Camp
Upon arrival, check in to your chosen accommodation, such as Treetops Lodge, The Aberdare Country Club, or Aberdare Camping Site (depending on your preferences for luxury or more rustic experiences). After settling in, enjoy a refreshing welcome drink and light snacks before setting out.
Lunch:
- Lunch at the Lodge or Camp
Enjoy a delightful lunch in the lodge or camp with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, followed by a brief rest.
Afternoon:
- Introductory Walk in Aberdare Forest
Your walking safari begins with a guided introductory walk around the vicinity of your lodge. This will be a relatively short walk to allow you to get acclimatized to the altitude (the Aberdare Mountains are between 2,100 to 4,000 meters above sea level) and learn about the local flora and fauna. Your guide will explain the importance of the Aberdare ecosystem, including the diverse plant life, insects, and small mammals that live in the forest.
Evening:
- Sundowner at the Lodge
Return to the lodge for a sundowner drink, watching the sunset over the Aberdare Mountains. This is a great way to relax and reflect on the day's adventure.
Dinner & Overnight:
Enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge or camp. Afterward, spend the night relaxing and enjoying the serene environment of the Aberdares.
Day 2: Full-Day Walking Safari in Aberdare National Park
Early Morning:
-
Breakfast & Depart for Full-Day Walk
Start the day with a hearty breakfast to prepare for your full-day walking safari. This adventure will take you deeper into the Aberdare National Park. The walking safari is designed to help you explore a variety of habitats, from dense forests and waterfalls to moorlands and open grasslands. -
Walking Safari through the Forest and Moorland
Embark on a longer walk led by an experienced guide who will help you navigate through the lush Aberdare Forest. Along the way, you will learn about the park's unique ecosystem, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, baboons, and forest antelopes. You will also encounter beautiful streams, waterfalls, and the famous Aberdare ridgelines, which offer stunning views of the Great Rift Valley.
Lunch:
- Picnic Lunch in the Wild
During the walk, you’ll stop for a picnic lunch in a scenic area, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. Enjoy your lunch while surrounded by the natural beauty of the park.
Afternoon:
-
Exploration of Waterfalls & Wildlife Viewing
After lunch, continue your walk towards some of the famous waterfalls of Aberdare National Park, such as Karuru Falls or Gura Falls. These stunning waterfalls are perfect for photo opportunities and wildlife sightings. You may spot animals like sightings of elephants, baboons, and numerous bird species such as the African fish eagle, black-and-white casqued hornbill, and Montane white-eye. -
Return to Lodge
In the late afternoon, return to your lodge or camp to rest after the day’s exploration.
Evening:
- Sundowner and Dinner
After your walk, enjoy a sundowner drink while watching the sun set over the Aberdare mountains and valleys. Afterward, enjoy a delicious dinner and relax in the lodge or camp.
Overnight:
- Overnight stay at your lodge or camp.
Day 3: Hiking to Higher Elevations & Waterhole Viewing
Early Morning:
-
Breakfast & Depart for Higher Elevation Hike
After breakfast, head out for a morning hike to higher altitudes within the Aberdare Mountain Range. This will give you the opportunity to experience the dramatic change in landscape as you ascend from the dense forest into more open moorlands, with views of the Mount Kenya Massif in the distance. -
Hiking at Higher Elevations
On this hike, you will explore the moorland ecosystem, which is home to unique plant species and animal life. The Aberdares’ high-altitude ecosystems also support species like black leopards, colobus monkeys, and baboons, which can be seen in the more open areas.
Lunch:
- Lunch at a Scenic Spot
Enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic spot with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Your guide will explain the fascinating geology and history of the Aberdare Range.
Afternoon:
- Waterhole Visit for Wildlife Viewing
After lunch, take a break and enjoy the viewing of the waterholes near the lodge or camp. The waterholes in Aberdare are popular for wildlife watching, where you can see elephants, buffaloes, and even occasional sightings of leopards coming to drink. It’s a perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Evening:
- Sundowner and Dinner
As the day winds down, enjoy a sundowner while taking in the scenic views and wildlife around the waterhole. A delicious dinner awaits you back at the lodge or camp.
Overnight:
- Overnight stay at your lodge or camp.
Day 4: Final Walk & Departure
Early Morning:
- Final Guided Walk
On your last morning in Aberdare, take a gentle walk around the park’s lower-altitude forest areas. This walk is designed to be easy, with a focus on bird watching and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. You’ll have the chance to spot forest birds, monkeys, and smaller animals, as well as take in the lush surroundings.
Breakfast:
- Return to the lodge for breakfast after your morning walk.
Late Morning:
- Departure
After breakfast, check out of your lodge or camp and begin the drive back to Nairobi or your next destination. You will be transferred back to Nairobi (about 3.5-4 hours) or a nearby airstrip for your flight.
Tour Activities
All tour activities will be as per the tour schedule.