How to Get to Aberdare National Park: Road From Nairobi, Nyeri and Lodge Transfers

The Aberdares lie in central Kenya, between Nairobi and Mount Kenya, and are easy to reach by road. The way up the mountain, however, works differently from most parks, because some lodges are reached by park-operated vehicles rather than your own.

Understanding the access system helps you plan timing, luggage and expectations.

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

The Road From Nairobi

Your driver leaves Nairobi on the highway towards Thika, continues through the highlands towards Nyeri and then to the hotels and gates on the lower slopes. The journey passes tea, coffee and farmland, and the scenery grows greener as you climb. Roads are generally good, although traffic around the capital and in the towns can add time. It is worth stopping at a viewpoint or a roadside café in the highlands to stretch your legs, as the air is noticeably cooler as you gain altitude. The mountain range often hides in cloud, so a clear view on the drive is a pleasant surprise. Driving at night is not advised in rural Kenya, so plan to reach your hotel while there is daylight. See getting around East Africa.

Base Hotels and Forest Lodge Transfers

Some of the well-known lodges inside the forest are accessed from hotels on the lower slopes, where guests meet an escorted park vehicle at a set time. Because the final stretch is inside the park, private vehicles may not go all the way, and a guide or ranger takes you up. Luggage is often limited, so pack an overnight bag and leave the rest at the base hotel. Ask your operator to confirm transfer times and what is allowed. See Kenya lodges and camps guide.

Arrival Times and Timing

Arrival is usually in the afternoon, so that guests can settle in before dusk, when animals start to gather. Late arrivals may miss the transfer, so allow a margin for traffic. Staying two nights lets you recover from the journey and spend more time watching.

Combining the Aberdares With Other Areas

The Aberdares fit neatly on a route that links Nairobi, Mount Kenya, Laikipia and Lake Nakuru. The nearby highlands also make a good starting point for visits to Mount Kenya or Ol Pejeta. For longer routes, see Kenya safari itineraries.

Practical Tips

Carry warm layers, a waterproof jacket and binoculars in your small bag. Keep identification handy, and check the visa guide before you travel. Read the Aberdare wildlife guide to know what to look for.

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