Hell's Gate National Park

Hell’s Gate National Park is one of the major tourist attractions in Kenya.  It is located at Naivasha which is over 100 Kms from Nairobi city.  It takes about one hour and half when travelling from Nairobi by road.

Attractions Within Hell’s Gate National Park

a) Wildlife

Game viewing will see you sample a variety of wildlife such as; herds of buffalo, zebra, eland, hartebeest, Thompson’s gazelle and giraffe. There are also troops of baboons, several cat and klip springer antelope.  You’d be lucky to spot the ocassional elephant, leopard or the elusive cheetah.

b) Birds

At least an incredible 103 species of birds have been recorded.

c) Towering Cliffs

They at least provide a unique breeding grounds for vultures, augur buzzard, Verreaux eagle and Lammergeyer Vulture.

d) Fischer’s Tower

This is a 25m high jagged volcanic plug of an ancient volcano and is named after German explorer Gustav Fischer.  It offers excellent rock climbing opportunities.  You are likely to come across a Rock Hyrax, a close relative to the elephant.

e) The Mervyns Carnelly Raptor Hide

This is an unique bird viewing hide incorporating a one-way window which allows visitors to view and photograph the raptors (otherwise known as birds of prey) at an exceptionally close range.  It is located above the Endachata campsite.  The hide may be booked in advanced for a small fee subject to availability.

f) Lower Gorge

This is a track leading down into the fantastic curves of the Ol Njorowa Gorge.  I would compare the scenery here to that of the grand canyons but on a much smaller scale.  Exploring is recommended but one has to proceed with care.  Avoid excursions here on rainy days.

g) Ol Karia Geothermal Power Plant

This is an 80sq Km of geothermal field with one of the hottest sources of natural steam in the world with an underground water temperature of 304 degrees Celsius but is also the first African geothermal field to be commercially exploited.

Onsite Accommodation Options

• Oldubai campsite( on the cliff top south of Fischer’s Tower)
• Nairburta campsite
• Endachata campsite

There is a wide range of souvenirs made in Kenya near the Elsa Gate.

Hell’s Gate National Park is under the management of Kenya Wildlife Service.

Information courtesy of KWS