Hell’s Gate National Park
Central Park West NY, USA
From
Duration
15 days
Tour Type
Overview
Located near Lake Naivasha in Kenya’s Rift Valley, Hell’s Gate National Park is a unique and adventurous destination known for its dramatic landscapes, geothermal activity, and opportunities for outdoor exploration. Covering approximately 68.25 square kilometers, the park is characterized by towering cliffs, deep gorges, volcanic plugs, and hot springs. It is one of the few national parks in Kenya where visitors are allowed to walk, hike, or cycle through the wildlife habitats. Named after a narrow break in the cliffs, Hell’s Gate is rich in history, with the geothermal power station at Olkaria adding to its significance.
Key Highlights:
- Scenic Landscapes
- Description: Hell’s Gate features impressive rock formations, including towering cliffs, volcanic plugs like Fischer’s Tower and Central Tower, and deep gorges with hot springs. These unique geological formations make the park a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
- Significance: The striking scenery provides an opportunity for hiking, rock climbing, and photography, making it one of the most scenic parks in Kenya.
- Wildlife Viewing
- Description: Though smaller and more open than other parks, Hell’s Gate is home to a variety of wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, antelopes, and warthogs. It is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 100 species, including the endangered Rüppell’s vulture.
- Significance: The park offers a different wildlife experience, as visitors can explore on foot or by bicycle, getting closer to the animals in their natural habitats.
- Adventure Activities
- Description: Hell’s Gate is one of the few places in Kenya that allows for rock climbing, hiking, and cycling in the park. Visitors can hike through the Ol Njorowa Gorge, cycle past wildlife on the open plains, or climb the park’s rugged rock faces.
- Significance: The park provides a hands-on adventure experience, ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities beyond the typical safari.
- Geothermal Activity
- Description: The park is home to Olkaria Geothermal Station, one of the largest geothermal power plants in Africa. Visitors can explore the geothermal spa and learn about Kenya’s sustainable energy initiatives.
- Significance: The presence of geothermal energy adds an educational element to a visit, offering insight into the natural forces shaping the Rift Valley and how they are harnessed for power.
Included/Exclude
- Pick and Drop Services
- 1 Meal Per Day
- Cruise Dinner & Music Event
- Visit 7 Best Places in the City With Group
- Additional Services
- Insurance
- Food & Drinks
- Tickets
Tour Plan
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Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
- Morning: Arrive at Hell’s Gate National Park, which is easily accessible from Nairobi. Check in at your lodge or camp near Lake Naivasha.
- Afternoon: After settling in, embark on an introductory cycling tour through the park. Ride past Fischer’s Tower and enjoy up-close encounters with wildlife like zebras, giraffes, and antelopes.
- Evening: Return to your lodge for dinner and relax by the lake as you take in the stunning sunset over the Rift Valley.
Day 2: Hiking and Gorge Exploration
- Morning: After breakfast, set out on a hike through the park’s famous Ol Njorowa Gorge. Walk through narrow ravines with hot springs and waterfalls, exploring the geothermal activity and rock formations.
- Afternoon: After lunch, continue hiking along the park’s cliffs, enjoying panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley. If you’re up for an adrenaline rush, you can try rock climbing at Fischer’s Tower.
- Evening: Relax by the campfire at your lodge and enjoy a night under the stars.
Day 3: Geothermal Spa and Wildlife Viewing
- Morning: Visit the Olkaria Geothermal Station for a tour of Kenya’s renewable energy efforts. Afterward, take a dip in the natural geothermal spa, where you can unwind in the therapeutic waters.
- Afternoon: Return to the park for a game drive or another cycling adventure. This time, focus on birdwatching along the cliffs, where you might spot the rare Rüppell's vulture.
- Evening: Enjoy a peaceful evening at the lodge, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Day 4: Lake Naivasha and Departure
- Morning: Take an early morning boat trip on Lake Naivasha to observe hippos, fish eagles, and other bird species. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely breakfast by the lake.
- Afternoon: Depart Hell’s Gate for Nairobi, stopping at viewpoints along the Rift Valley escarpment for final glimpses of the dramatic landscapes.
Hell’s Gate National Park is a perfect destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers, offering a blend of wildlife, adventure, and geothermal wonders in one of Kenya’s most scenic settings.
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Review Scores
3 thoughts on “Hell’s Gate National Park”
Booking Tour
Max Guests
98
Min Age
12+
Tour Location
Languages Support
Last Minute Deals
3.8
It is a great place to shop not too far from New York. We took the bus from Port Authority and traveled through the countryside to get there.
3.6
We always stay at here when in town. The location is great, staff is wonderful and we love the overall feel. Beautiful view from the here.
4.6
This is the best tour on the east coast! It was amazing how many places we visited and what great memories we made!