Hiking, Biking, and More: 8 Activities to Enjoy at Hell’s Gate National Park

Last updated on June 24th, 2023 at 01:45 am

Hell’s Gate National Park is a protected area located in Kenya’s Rift Valley Province, approximately 55 miles (90 km) from Nairobi.  It is known for its unique landscape and wildlife.

The park’s landscape is dominated by towering cliffs, gorges, and volcanic plugs with several climbing routes of varying difficulty and it is a popular destination for rock climbers. It is also home to several geothermal hot springs and geysers.  

The park’s wildlife includes lions, leopards, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, and baboons. There are also over 100 species of birds that call the park home.

Hell’s Gate National Park is unique in that it allows visitors to explore the park on foot or by bike. Here are 8 activities you can enjoy during your visit:

1. Go Hiking and Rock Climbing

Hiking and rock climbing are two popular activities in Hell’s Gate National Park, Kenya. The park is known for its rugged terrain and unique rock formations, which make it an ideal destination for these outdoor activities.

There are several hiking trails throughout the park that offer varying levels of difficulty. The most popular trail is the Fisher’s Tower Trail, which takes visitors through a gorge and up to the Fisher’s Tower rock formation. The hike takes about 4-5 hours round trip and offers stunning views of the park’s landscape.

For more experienced hikers, the Central Tower Trail offers a more challenging hike up to Central Tower, a 490-foot (150-meter) tall volcanic plug. The hike takes about 6-7 hours round trip and requires some scrambling and climbing.

Rock climbing is also a popular activity in Hell’s Gate National Park. The park offers several climbing routes of varying difficulty ranging from beginner to advanced. You can hire a guide and rent equipment in Naivasha town.

2. Go on a Game Drive

A game drive through Hell’s Gate National Park is an unforgettable experience. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife including lions, leopards, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, and many more. Take a game drive through the park to get close to the animals.

In addition to the big game, Hell’s Gate National Park is also home to several bird species, making it a great destination for bird watchers. You can spot vultures, eagles, and falcons, among other bird species.

Game drives are typically conducted in the early morning or late afternoon, as this is when animals are most active. Keep in mind that the park’s wildlife is wild and should not be approached too closely. It is also important to follow the park’s rules and regulations to ensure the safety of both visitors and animals.

3. Visit the Hot springs

Hell’s Gate National Park has several natural hot springs that are believed to have therapeutic properties. These hot springs are a popular tourist attraction and you can take a dip in the hot springs to relax and unwind.

There are several hot springs located within the park, each with its own unique characteristics. The most popular hot spring is the Olkaria Geothermal Spa which is located near the Olkaria Geothermal Power Station. The spa features several hot pools of varying temperatures as well as a cold pool for cooling off.

Another popular hot spring in the park is Fischer’s Tower Hot Springs, which is located near Fischer’s Tower rock formation. This hot spring features a small pool surrounded by rocks and vegetation providing a peaceful and relaxing setting for visitors to soak in the hot water.

Please remember that the hot springs in Hell’s Gate National Park are natural and do not have any artificial heating systems. The temperature of the water can vary depending on the season and time of day. You should therefore exercise caution when entering the hot springs as the water can be very hot in some areas.

4. Camping

Camping is a popular activity where you can spend the night under the stars in Hell’s Gate National Park. The park offers several campsites ranging from basic campsites with few facilities to campsites with flush toilets, showers, and even kitchens.

The park’s campsites offer a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets making it an accessible destination for all visitors.

One of the popular campsites in the park is the Naiburta Campsite which is located near the park entrance. This campsite has basic facilities such as pit latrines and a fireplace. You can pitch their tents in a designated area and enjoy the park’s natural beauty.

For those looking for more amenities, the Fischer’s Tower Campsite offers flush toilets, showers, and a kitchen. This campsite is located near Fischer’s Tower rock formation and offers stunning views of the park’s landscape.

 There are also several private campsites located near the park, which offer more luxurious accommodations such as beds, bedding, and electricity.

You should keep in mind that camping in Hell’s Gate National Park requires a camping permit which can be obtained at the park entrance. It is also important to follow the park’s rules and regulations regarding campfires and litter to ensure the park’s natural beauty is preserved for future generations.

5. Take a Bike tour

Hell’s Gate National Park is also a great destination for cycling enthusiasts and you can rent a bike at the park entrance and take a guided tour of the park’s trails.

Bike tours are a popular activity in Hell’s Gate National Park, Kenya. The park offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the park’s stunning landscapes on two wheels, providing a different perspective than hiking or game drives.

Experienced guides who know the park well will guide you and provide you with information about the park’s wildlife, geology, and history. The tours can be tailored to suit different levels of fitness and experience, from easy rides through the park’s flat grasslands to more challenging rides through the park’s rugged terrain.

One of the highlights of a bike tour through Hell’s Gate National Park is the opportunity to cycle through the park’s famous gorges, such as the Fisher’s Tower and Central Tower gorges. These narrow canyons offer a unique cycling experience with towering cliffs on either side and the sound of rushing water in the distance.

It is important to note that cycling in the park can be challenging especially for those who are not used to cycling on uneven terrain. Be wary of the park’s wildlife and exercise caution when cycling through areas where animals are present.

With a range of options available to suit different fitness levels and experience a bike tour is an exhilarating and unique way to experience the park’s natural beauty and wildlife, and a great option for visitors looking for an active and adventurous way to explore the park.

6. Bird watching

Hell’s Gate National Park in Kenya is a popular destination for bird-watching enthusiasts. The park is home to over 100 species of birds including several rare and endangered species.

Some of the most popular bird species to spot in the park include the Verreaux’s eagle, Lammergeyer, augur buzzard and the yellow-billed oxpecker. The park’s grasslands, cliffs, and forests provide a wide range of habitats for different bird species.

The best time for bird watching in Hell’s Gate National Park is during the wet season, between March and May when the park’s vegetation is lush, and bird activity is at its highest. However, bird watching can be enjoyed year-round and different species can be seen during different seasons.

You can explore the park’s birdlife on foot, by bike, or on a game drive. Guided bird-watching tours are also available led by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the park’s bird species and their habitats.

It is important to note that bird watching in the park requires patience and a keen eye, as birds can be elusive and difficult to spot. Be careful to respect the park’s rules and regulations regarding wildlife and habitat conservation to ensure that the park’s birdlife is protected for future generations.

7. Explore the Unique Rock Formations

Hell’s Gate National Park, Kenya is known for its unique and spectacular rock formations which were formed by volcanic activity over millions of years.

One of the most famous rock formations in the park is Fischer’s Tower, a towering volcanic plug that rises 82 feet (25 meters) above the surrounding landscape. The tower is a popular destination for rock climbers who climb to the top for stunning views of the park.

Another popular rock formation in the park is the Central Tower, a narrow gorge that cuts through the park’s cliffs. Hike or bike through the gorge admiring the towering cliffs on either side and the rushing water below.

There are several other rock formations in the park such as Hell’s Gate Gorge which was used as the inspiration for the Disney movie “The Lion King.”

It is important to note that exploring the park’s rock formations can be dangerous, especially for inexperienced climbers. Please exercise caution and follow the park’s rules and regulations regarding safety and conservation while exploring the rock formations at Hell’s Gate.

8. Gorge walk

Another popular activity in Hell’s Gate National Park is a gorge walk. The park is home to several spectacular gorges which were formed by millions of years of volcanic activity and erosion.

The most famous gorge in the park is the Hell’s Gate Gorge which is a deep, narrow canyon that was once a tributary of a prehistoric lake. Hike through the gorge admiring the towering cliffs on either side and the rushing water below. The hike is challenging with steep cliffs and rocky terrain but the stunning scenery is worth the effort.

Another popular gorge in the park is the Central Tower Gorge which is a narrow canyon that cuts through the park’s cliffs. You can hike or bike through the gorge enjoying the unique scenery and geology.

The park offers several guided tours of the gorges, led by experienced guides who can provide you with information about the park’s geology, history, and wildlife. You can also explore the gorges on their own following the marked trails.

It is important to note that hiking in the gorges can be dangerous especially during the rainy season when flash floods can occur. Please respect the park’s rules and regulations regarding safety and conservation to ensure that the park’s natural beauty is protected for future generations.

Best Time to Visit Hell’s Gate

The best time to visit Hell’s Gate National Park in Kenya is during the dry season, which runs from June to October and from January to February. During these months, the weather is generally dry and sunny, and the park’s landscapes and wildlife are at their most vibrant.

Visiting during the dry season also makes hiking and other outdoor activities more comfortable and enjoyable, as there is less chance of rain and mud. The temperatures during the day can be quite hot, so you should bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.

The wet season in Hell’s Gate National Park runs from March to May and from November to December. During these months, the park can be lush and green, with plenty of wildlife to see but hiking and other outdoor activities can be challenging due to the muddy and slippery trails.

However, visiting during the wet season can also be rewarding as the park’s waterfalls and hot springs are at their most impressive. It is important to note that the park may be closed during heavy rains due to flooding, so please check with park officials before planning a visit during the wet season.