Aberdare National Park
The Aberdares are a volcanic mountain rainge that forms the eastern part of the Rift Valley, and they run the hundred or so kilometers between Thomson's Falls and Nairobi. The soil is red and volcanic, but it is very rich in plant and animal matter. There are two main mountain peaks in the park- Ol Donyo Lesatima (at almost four thousand meters) and Kinangop at almost that height. The two peaks are separated by a swath of moorland at an elevation of 3,000 meters above sea level, and the park's topography varies between deep ravines, waterfalls and streams.
The Aberdares Mountains are important, because they catch water that replenishes the Athi and Tana rivers. The mountains are also a large part of the Northern and Central Rift drainage systems. The park itself is mostly above the treeline, at 10,000 feet and above. There is some scrubland at a lower altitude, near Nyeri, and there the park's boundary extends down to about seven thousand feet. The varied terrain, atypical vegetation, and abundant waterfalls and streams create a great deal of scenic beauty in the park.
Some of Aberdare National Park's biggest attractions are Kinangop and Lesatima Peaks, the moorlands, Twin and Elephant Hills, the Table Mountains and the moorlands. The continent's second-largest population of black rhino can be found in Northern Aberdare; Queen Elizabeth learned that she would take the throne at Treetops Lodge. Aberdare National Park is home to many larger mammals, such as the forest hog, wild dogs, and the mole shrew. Other wildlife includes the serval, the leopard and various species of reptile.
Aberdare is accessible from the air via Naro Moru and Nyeri, and there is also a road that connects to other roads from North Kinangop and Naivasha. The best ways to get into the park are through Nyeri, Nyahururu, and Naivasha. Mweiga and Nyeri both have accommodations for all budgets, from simple campsites to more well-appointed lodges. There are also huts for backpackers, which should be booked in advance if you are not part of an organized hike or safari.