Aberdare National Park FAQs: Treetop Lodges, Wildlife, Weather and Getting There

The Aberdare range rises north of Nairobi, and the national park covers high moorland, bamboo and montane forest. It is a cool, misty park with a different feel from the savannah reserves.

The questions below cover the practical issues travellers raise most often.

This guide is part of our Uganda facts and travel information guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

About the Park and Lodges

What is Aberdare National Park known for?

It is known for its forested slopes, moorland and waterfalls, and for lodges built so that guests can watch animals at floodlit waterholes.

What are treetop lodges?

They are raised lodges overlooking a waterhole and salt lick, where elephants, buffalo and other animals appear day and night. Guests are usually transferred into the park by lodge vehicle from a base hotel.

Can I do a day trip?

Yes, but overnight stays make the most of the animal activity, which peaks at dusk and after dark. See Kenya itineraries of 3, 5 and 7 days for ways to include it.

Is Aberdare a Big Five park?

Elephants, buffalo, leopards and black rhinos are present, but lions are scarce, and forest conditions make sightings less predictable than in open savannah.

Wildlife and Scenery

What animals can I see?

Elephants, buffalo, bushbuck, colobus monkeys, giant forest hogs and leopards are among the species recorded, together with many forest birds. Rare animals such as bongo are seldom seen.

Are there waterfalls?

Yes, the park has several waterfalls that plunge from the highlands, and they are one of the main reasons to visit in daylight.

Is the park good for birds?

Forest and moorland birds, including sunbirds and francolins, make it rewarding for patient birders. See the East Africa birding guide.

Weather, Dates and What to Pack

When is the best time to visit Aberdare?

The drier months, roughly January to February and June to September, are usually more comfortable, but mist and showers occur all year. See best time to visit Kenya.

How cold does it get?

Evenings are cold at altitude, so warm clothing, a waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes are advisable. Use the packing list to prepare.

Do I need a 4x4?

Yes, the park tracks are steep and can be muddy, and the lodges use their own vehicles.

Getting There and Combining Trips

How do I get to Aberdare from Nairobi?

Most travellers drive to the gateway towns near Nyeri in a few hours, then transfer by lodge vehicle. Your operator will arrange this.

Which parks combine well with Aberdare?

It pairs well with Mount Kenya, Samburu and Laikipia. See Mount Kenya FAQs and Laikipia and Ol Pejeta.

Is it suitable for children?

Yes, the lodge experience is memorable, but check minimum ages and consider the cold.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team