Hell’s Gate National Park
Hell’s Gate Park Tours & Tickets
“A cycling & walk in the wild”
Set on the south of Lake Naivasha, and not far from major Rift Valley attractions such as Lake Nakuru, Hell’s Gate National Park is the only national park in Kenya that the park allows walking and cycling activities. The park covers an area of 68 square kilometres (26 sq mi) featuring its impressive towering cliffs, water gouged gorges, rock towers, geothermal steams, and volcanic outcrops which provide the backdrop to some excellent activities including rock climbing, hiking and mountain biking alongside animals.
Famous for inspiring popular productions such as The Lion King, Tomb Raider: Cradle of Life among others, the park is dry, dusty and dramatic but noticeably peaceful with plenty of geothermal activity, dramatic volcanic rocky outcrops, obsidian cave, spitting geysers, rock towers, sandstone cliffs, and water gouged gorges making the park an ideal venue for a day trip excursion.
Away from wildlife sightings, and unlike other national parks in Kenya, Hell’s Gate National Park is that rare Kenyan park made for bicycles and exploring on foot, there are no predators here, so you can cycle past grazing zebras and buffalo, spot rock hyraxes or klipspringers.
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Hell’s Gate Landscape & Scenery
Hell’s Gate National Park is a UNESCO listed park, named after a narrow break in the cliffs. The park is characterized by a diverse topography and geological rock formations featuring a grassland vegetation which is dominated by red oat grass and whistling thorn bush. In the high ground areas above 1,700m are the dense leleshwa. Also, the Red stinkwood and the East African Sandalwood are found here. These plants are able to survive in very high temperatures.
Picture a rugged landscape featuring deep gorges with twists and turns, cutting into rocks. The park is an important geothermal area supporting the production of green energy, whilst covered in extinct volcanoes. The acrid smell of sulphur penetrates the air, with hot water geysers and hot bubbling springs finally giving up age-old gases.
The Best Tourist Attractions In Hell’s Gate Park
What are the popular landmarks in Hell’s Gate National Park? On your safari to Hell’s Gate Park, apart from cycling which will bring you up-close to wildlife, and a series of bird species (including vultures); – there is more to it.
1. Fischer's Tower and Central Tower
Fischer’s Tower and Central Tower; towering at 25 metres, is the noteworthy Fischer’s Tower. A craggy mass of rock that is a remnant of the park’s ancient volcano named after a German explorer Gustav Fischer who was in the park in 1883, appointed to find a route from Mombasa to Lake Victoria. The rock offers a great climbing experience; accompanied by a guide, you can climb the tower and gaze over the surrounding area.
The Local Maasai community allege that the rock is a figure of a chief’s daughter who turned around against the dictates of the Maa tradition to take one last look at her home before leaving to be married. Still within Hell’s Gate is the Hells Gate Gorge, lined with red cliffs we have another tall volcanic plug; the Central Tower. In addition, off the Central Tower is a smaller gorge which extends to the south, with a path that descends into hot springs that have rocks hot enough to cause burns, and sulfuric water.
2. Hell’s Gate Gorge
Hell’s Gate Gorge; the gorge that runs through the park’s centre in twists and turns featuring a wide, deep valley, once a tributary to an ancient lake that once existed. Through this valley, you may come across zebras, the occasional giraffe, warthogs and various antelope species, while birds of prey can be seen circling overhead. Visitors can explore the curving walls of the gorge with a guide and experience the aptly-named sections – the devil’s sitting room, Hell’s clinic, and the devil’s mouth. There are several small waterfalls, both cold and hot, as well as stunning, multi-colored rock strata and formations.
3. Geothermal Power Stations
Geothermal Power Stations: The national park is also home to five geothermal power stations at Olkaria, which collectively contribute to an important portion of Kenya’s electricity needs.
Swimming at Geothermal Spa; you can swim at the Geothermal Health Spa and Demonstration Centre; This Centre showcases direct use applications such as hot/ warm water bathing for balneological effects, sauna, steam bathing, cooking, drying of fruits and vegetables, refrigeration, irrigation of crops and fish farming. Additionally, the spa is said to be rich in minerals such as sulphur and silica is believed to cure skin diseases and ailments.
The Geothermal Spa offers a bouquet of adventure, spice comfort, luxury, and true Africa hospitality. Whether you are seeking a business venue, adventure or that elusive African getaway we will cater for your need.
4. Obsidian Caves
Obsidian Caves: close to the Elsa Gate, another trace of volcanic activity is the Obsidian Caves, located along the Buffalo Circuit (a 14km track around the eastern part of the park) where you’ll find interesting examples of the shiny glassy black rock and dark green surface of obsidian rock, which is the result of Rift Valley molten lava flows coming into contact with water and cooling rapidly.
5. Nature Trails
Nature Trails: discover nature trails, picnic sites and two circuits loop around the park offering a variety of scenic sites and wildlife viewing opportunities. There are two walking nature trails at Hobley’s Volcano and the Ol Basta Rock Tower and some scenic picnic sites at Lake View Point, Moibeni, the obsidian caves, Hell’s kitchen and Kapartania View Point.
6. Lower Gorge (Ol Njorowa);
Lower Gorge (Ol Njorowa); Ol Njorowa Gorge, a maze of narrow canyons and steep rock faces, found close to a picnic site and ranger’s post. As you explore further, there is a wide; almost dried river bed there, and in others you’ll find yourself scrambling down a steep and slippery descent. Keep in mind that while here, the tracks leading down the strange curves of Ol Njorowa Gorge, can be very slippery when wet; – we recommend taking a Park Ranger guide. Discover the canyon’s superb water-eroded walls featuring large echoing spaces and narrow cuts just wide enough for a single person to pass in some places.
Top 7 Things To Do In Hell’s Gate Park
Discover some of the best things to do in Hell’s Gate National Park. The setting and climate of Nairobi allows for quality wildlife viewing all-round the year; from scheduled game drives, bush meals, and guided nature walks. Away from the beautiful rocky landscape setting, and gorge; let’s have a look at the noteworthy activities that Hell’s Gate National Park offers, and the top ways to experience Hell’s Gate.
1. Game Viewing In Hell’s Gate National Park
With its small size, game drives is not the main activity in Hell’s Gate National Park. It’s not about the wildlife, Hell’s Gate National Park is one of few Kenyan parks where you can get down from your vehicle and explore on foot. Therefore you will be cycling inside the park accompanied by a guide as you come up-close with the wildlife.
2. Cycling In Hell’s Gate Park
The park allows walking and cycling activities (guided by local community guides) The Hell’s Gate bicycle ride brings you up-close to the park’s biggest attractions; from towering volcanic rocks, lookouts, and a good number of plain wild animals including; Zebras, eland, giraffes, large herds of buffalos, serval cat, hartebeest, Thomson’s gazelle, klipspringer, rare leopard sightings and so much more.
Bicycles are rented from Elsa’s Gate, the point from which you will start your cycling downhill a 9 km distance to the Hell’s gate gorge. Also, it’s advisable to begin the cycle trail early before it gets too hot.
Afterwards, you will then cycle uphill back to the main gate; for this, a good level of fitness is recommended.
3. Rock Climbing In Hell’s Gate National Park
Hell’s Gate National Park is a great choice for the adventure-seekers; mountain biking, rock climbing, and hiking are some of the available activities.
In the company of a guide, you can hike the Fischer’s Tower; – a rugged mass of rock that is a remnant of the ancient volcano named after a German explorer Gustav Fischer. The rock offers a great climbing experience.
In addition, there are several nature trails and two circuits loop around the park offering a variety of scenic sites and wildlife viewing opportunities. The walking nature trails at Hobley’s Volcano and the Ol Basta Rock Tower and some scenic picnic sites at Lake View Point, Moibeni, the obsidian caves, Hell’s Kitchen and Kapartania View Point.
4. Swimming At Geothermal SPA
You can experience the warm/ hot water bathing in the third lagoon. The spa is said to be rich in minerals such as sulphur and silica which is believed to cure skin diseases and ailments.
Indulge in a wild swimming spree; this is an ideal place to spend time after cycling in Hell’s Gate Park. The Geothermal Spa as a chain of three geothermal pools. The water in the SPA is natural, there are no any treatments or additions that have been added to it. The blue waters are heated by the earth’s geothermal activity.
5. Birdwatching In Hell’s Gate National Park
Including the Mervyn Carnelley Raptor hide, a unique bird-viewing hide with a one-way window which allows visitors to view and photograph some of the Park’s raptors (birds of prey) at an exceptionally close range; Hell’s Gate host’s some 103 different bird species which have been recorded in the Park, so you can reasonably expect to spot at least 25-30 species during a one-day visit. Easiest to identify are the secretary bird and common ostrich, which patrol the valley floor.
Augur buzzard are also easily seen, perched atop the volcanic plug of Fischer’s Tower. Having a look at the higher cliff, watch out for the (Egyptian and Ruppel’s griffon vultures), the elusive Verreaux’s eagle and the rare lammergeier eagle; Cape eagle-owls also nest in the gorge.
6. Visit Crescent Island
Connect with nature at Crescent Island Game Sanctuary. A safe and intimate experience, walking with wild animals in their natural habitat.
Take a walk on the wild side; discover the beauty of nature on our walking safaris at Crescent Island Game Sanctuary. The Island Sanctuary can be reached by boat; one of the few places in the Rift Valley where you can walk among giraffes, zebras, waterbucks, impalas and countless bird species. Led by a guide, it lasts between an hour and one hour thirty minutes.
The wildlife in Crescent Island; the island has over 1,600 head of game and 200 species of birds recorded, not forgetting the reptiles, plants and insects. Strolling through the herds of antelopes, listening to the haunting call of the fish eagles or just sitting and watching the cheeky monkeys, whatever you decide, there’s something for everyone. Watch the Hippos munching away, bushbabies leaping from tree to tree & genet cats and bat eared foxes foraging for food.
7. Visit Elsamere Museum
Elsamere lies on the shores of Kenya’s Lake Naivasha, and is named after Elsa, the lioness made famous by George and Joy Adamson in the 1960s, in the Born Free books and films. This is the former home of the late Joy Adamson in which she lived until her death, with an on-site museum containing movie memorabilia, art, literature and other personal items including; cloth-bound animal-behaviour manuals, dusty typewriters, photographs and Joy’s art. In the yard, the vehicle in which George was shot dead sits empty.
While on a visit at Elsamere, guests can attend regular screenings of a flickering 1970s film about Joy’s life and her myriad love affairs, notably with Elsa the lioness. You can also visit the conservation centre in the grounds, or even stay here in one of the lovely garden rooms.
Animals & Wildlife In Hell’s Gate National Park
In addition to cycling and rock climbing in Hell’s Gate, the wildlife present in Hell’s Gate National Park include; zebra, eland, giraffe, the African buffalo, serval cat, Coke’s hartebeest, Thomson’s gazelle, klipspringer, antelope, hyenas, baboons, Chanler’s mountain reedbuck, the Olive baboons are often seen perched on the cliffs, unlikely sightings of leopard and so much more. As for birdlife, Hell’s Gate has an incredible record of over 103 bird species, the destination is ideal for bird lovers.
In summary, although Hell’s Gate is not a big wildlife safari destination, it’s an ideal venue for a Nairobi day trip excursion, a camping stop over or a picnic spot out of Nairobi; bringing you up-close to an interestingly small number of wildlife. The Chanler’s mountain reedbuck is one of the more unusual antelope species that can be seen in the park, alongside some of the small antelope, such as Kirk’s dik-dik and steenbok. Lucky guests might also come across the serval cat.
Best Time For Wildlife Viewing In Hell’s Gate Park
While the Hell’s Gate National Park can be visited for hiking, climbing and cycling throughout the year, the best time to visit Hell’s Gate National Park for wildlife watching is in the dry months of (June to October) when the vegetation thins out and animals gather around remaining water sources. Still – the dry months from January to February also makes up a great time for wildlife viewing. The wettest months are April and November, when the entire landscape turns lovely and green.
Birds In Hell’s Gate National Park
There are over 103 species of birds in the park, including vultures, Verreaux’s eagles, augur buzzards, and swifts. Hell’s Gate is an incredible destination for bird lovers.
For those who love birds of prey, The Mervyns Carnelley Raptor Hide is a unique bird viewing hide that includes a one-way window which allows visitors to view and take photos of birds at close proximity. Hell’s Gate National Park was once famous as a breeding place for bearded vultures (lammergeiers). The cliffs still attract several nesting raptor species including Egyptian and Rüppell’s vultures. The Verreaux’s eagle can often be seen soaring above the cliffs. Migratory birds are present from November to April – a perfect time for birding in Naivasha.
Popular Birds In Hell’s Gate National Park
Augur buzzard, Common fiscal, Northern anteater chat, Rüppell’s vulture, and Secretary bird
List Of Birds In Hell’s Gate National Park
African kestrel, Arrow-marked babbler, Bearded vulture, Chinspot batis, Eastern imperial eagle, Egyptian vulture, Golden-winged sunbird, Jackson’s widowbird, Mottled swift, Nyanza swift, Red-winged starling, Schalow’s wheatear, Verreaux’s eagle, White-rumped swift, Yellow bishop & Yellow-rumped seedeater
The Best Time To Visit Hell’s Gate Park
Similar to Lake Nakuru National Park; though Hell’s Gate National Park can be visited year-round, wildlife watching is best viewed in the dry months from June to October and again from January to March; during this time there is little to no rainfall, and climate conditions in the park are favorable for wildlife watching. The animals can be spotted around the nearby water holes as they quench their thirst. Now this is a good time to plan a trip to Hell’s Gate Park.
Hell’s Gate National Park is worth visiting throughout the year, mainly because wildlife watching is not the main attraction here. Hell’s Gate Park wet safari seasons comprise November and April.
The Weather & Climate At Hell’s Gate Park
Together with other top Kenya safari parks, while planning safaris to Hell’s Gate National Park and the whole of Nairobi, in general be prepared to for a hot, dry climate. For the rock climbing in Hell’s Gate, and cycling; come with comfortable clothing and shoes for the excursion.
Located in the same climatic zone like Lake Nakuru National Park, Hell’s Gate National Park climate is somehow mild and temperatures tend to be consistent year-round. Daytime temperatures are pleasant in the mid to upper twenties –degrees Celsius, although it is much cooler during nighttime. Warm clothing for the early morning game drives is recommended. The general wettest months are April & May. The rest of the year is relatively dry.
Dry Season In Hell’s Gate National Park –June to February
Visiting Hell’s Gate National Park In June, July, August, September, October; this is a period mostly characterized by a sunny and dry climate. Additionally, it’s a period that sees plenty of blue-sky days with temperatures averaging at about 22°C/72°F. Noticeably, evenings and early mornings are cold; – we recommend that you carry with you warm clothes for the morning game drives. Therefore in summary, the weather is very pleasant in the Dry season.
Visiting Hell’s Gate National Park In November & December – Conditions are sunny with the occasional shower. Temperatures climb to around 24°C/75°F in the afternoon, but the beginning and end of the day is cold with temperatures hovering around 11°C/52°F.
Visiting Hell’s Gate National Park In January & February – These months, before the rains break, are the driest and warmest in the calendar. Temperatures climb to 25°C/77°F and push higher. Be aware of the chill factor in the early morning when the temperature only crawls up to 12°C/54°F.
Wet Season In Hell’s Gate National Park –March to May
Visiting Hell’s Gate National Park In March – March or April see the beginning of the rains, although it is rare for March to see much rain. Expect temperatures in the afternoon to reach around 25°C/77°F.
Visiting Hell’s Gate National Park In April – The wettest month, but it doesn’t rain for long stretches very often.
Visiting Hell’s Gate National Park In May – The rains are already tapering off, but afternoon showers are still common.
Day Trips To Hell's Gate Park
Hell’s Gate National Park is a national park situated near Lake Naivasha in Kenya. Hell’s Gate National Park is the only park in Kenya that allows guided walking and cycling activities which allows you to come up-close with wildlife such as; Zebra, eland, giraffe, buffalo, serval cat, hartebeest, Thomson’s gazelle, klipspringer, and so much more. A trip to Hell’s Gate Park features great scenery including; towering cliffs, water gouged gorges, rock towers geothermal steams, and bird watching. In addition, a trip to Hells Gate National Park can easily be added on a safari to Masai Mara and Amboseli.
Safari Tours To Hell’s Gate Park
Want to visit Hell’s Gate National Park? This is one of the most rewarding safari destinations in southern Kenya that you can easily add on a safari package to Masai Mara. Being close to Nairobi, you can easily start off with short Nairobi daytrip tours then proceed to Masai Mara making it easy to visit in a short time frame, and combine it with other parks as well.
You have plenty of choices to pick from, Hell’s Gate Park midrange safaris to Hell’s Gate Park luxury safaris depending on your travel style.
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