|
Aberdares National Park
The Aberdares is an isolated volcanic range that forms the
eastern wall of the rift valley running roughly 100 km
north-south between Nairobi and Thomson’s Falls. Aberdares
National Park's topography is diverse with deep ravines that cut
through the forested eastern and western slopes and there are
many clear streams and waterfalls. The Aberdares are an
important water catchment area providing water to the Tana and
Athi rivers and part of Central Rift and Northern drainage
basins.
A major attraction in Aberdares National Park - The Ark
Lodge |
Aberdares National Park is home to herds of forest
Elephants |
The Aberdares National Park lies mainly above the tree line
running along the 10,000 ft (3,048 metres) contour with some
forest and scrub at lower altitude in the ‘salient’ area near
Nyeri with the boundary running down to the 7,000 ft (2,296
metres) contour.
The unusual vegetation, rugged terrain, streams and waterfalls
combine to create an area of great scenic beauty in the National
Park. The park is surrounded by a predominantly indigenous
forest, whose management is under a MoU between Kenya Wildlife
Services and the Forest Department. Major Attractions in
Aberdares National Park include the Lesatima Peak - the highest
peak in the ranges, Kinangop Peak, waterfalls, walks in the
moorlands, Twin Hills, Elephant Hills and Table Mountains.
Second largest population of black rhinos in Salient and
northern Aberdare. Queen Elizabeth II learned of her accession
to the British throne at Treetops lodge. The Kimathi Hideout/Mau
Mau caves.
Aberdares National Park is home to most of the larger mammals,
having a large population of black rhino. The park has
endangered species including the rare bongo, giant forest hog,
packs of the now very rare wild dogs and endemic mole-rat and
mole shrew. Other game includes leopard, serval, endemic bird
species, reptiles and insects.
See also:
Aberdares and Mount Kenya Safari
Lodges and Hotels |
