Hell’s Gate National Park – A Land of Dramatic Beauty and Adventure
Location: Rift Valley Province, near Lake Naivasha, about 90 km (56 miles) northwest of Nairobi
Established: 1984
Size: Approx. 68.25 square kilometers
Famous for: Towering cliffs, gorges, geothermal activity, and adventure tourism
Overview
Hell’s Gate National Park is unlike any other park in Kenya. Named for a narrow break in the cliffs once thought to be a gateway to the underworld, it offers visitors a dramatic landscape of rugged rock formations, deep gorges, and active geothermal features. Unlike most Kenyan parks, Hell’s Gate is known for its walkable safaris you can explore it on foot or by bicycle, which allows for a more intimate connection with the land.
The park inspired the landscapes in Disney’s The Lion King, and scenes for the movie Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life were filmed here.
Landscape and Geology
The park sits within the Great Rift Valley, with its dramatic cliffs and deep canyons shaped by ancient volcanic activity. Key geological features include:
– Fischer’s Tower – A 25-meter (82-foot) high volcanic plug, popular with rock climbers.
– Central Tower – Another striking volcanic spire rising from the valley floor.
– Hell’s Gate Gorge – A narrow canyon with steep walls, hot springs, and natural steam vents.
– Obsidian Caves – Formed from cooled lava, with shiny black volcanic glass.
Geothermal activity is still active in the area. Nearby is the Olkaria Geothermal Power Station, the first of its kind in Africa.
Wildlife in Hell’s Gate National Park
Hell’s Gate National Park, though relatively small compared to other parks in Kenya, boasts a surprising variety of wildlife. What makes it truly special is that it’s one of the few parks in Kenya where you can walk or cycle alongside wild animals, giving visitors a rare and intimate wildlife experience. Because there are no big predators like lions roaming freely in the park, it’s safe for guided walking and biking safaris.
Large Mammals
1. African Buffalo (Syncerus caffer)
Buffalos are among the largest animals in the park. Though they appear calm, they can be aggressive when threatened, so visitors are advised to keep a safe distance.
2. Plains Zebra (Equus quagga)
Common throughout the park, these strikingly striped animals often graze in open grasslands, especially near the main cycling routes. Zebras are social animals and are often seen in herds.
3. Masai Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi)
Tall and elegant, giraffes are commonly spotted browsing on acacia trees. They are unbothered by human presence and are often seen close to walking and cycling paths.
4. Warthog (Phacochoerus africanus)
Easily identified by their tusks and “kneeling” posture when grazing, warthogs are amusing and common. They often trot away with their tails upright when startled.
5. Coke’s Hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus cokii)
This antelope species is occasionally seen grazing in open plains. They have elongated faces and strong builds, built for running from predators—though in Hell’s Gate, they’re mostly at peace.
6. Thomson’s Gazelle & Grant’s Gazelle
These two species of antelope are fast, alert, and usually spotted in open areas. Their speed and agility help them evade predators in other parks, but here, they are more relaxed due to the absence of big cats.
Primates
1. Olive Baboon (Papio Anubis)
These highly intelligent primates are common in the park. They live in large troops and can be seen foraging or grooming each other along roads and near picnic sites.
2. Vervet Monkey (Chlorocebus pygerythrus)
Smaller and more playful than baboons, vervet monkeys are often seen in wooded areas or near campsites, sometimes attempting to snatch food.
Birds of Prey and Other Birds
Hell’s Gate is a paradise for bird watchers, especially those interested in raptors and cliff-dwelling birds.
Birds of Prey
– Verreaux’s Eagle – Often seen soaring above cliffs hunting hyraxes.
– Augur Buzzard – Common in open areas, easily recognized by its white underside and rust-colored tail.
– Lammergier (Bearded Vulture) – Occasionally spotted near cliffs; known for its bone-dropping feeding technique.
– Rüppell’s Griffon Vulture – One of the largest vultures, often seen gliding above the park’s gorges.
Other Bird Species
– Secretary Bird – A tall bird of prey that hunts snakes and rodents on foot.
– Rock Martins and Swift – Nest in cliff faces and dart swiftly through the air.
– Ostriches – Occasionally seen roaming the open plains.
– Bee-eaters and Sunbirds – Add vibrant color to the acacia woodlands.
Small Mammals and Reptiles
1. Rock Hyrax (Procavia capensis)
Often seen sunbathing on rocks, these small, furry animals look like oversized guinea pigs. Interestingly, their closest living relative is the elephant!
2. African Hare
These fast runners are mostly active at dawn and dusk, hiding in tall grass during the heat of the day.
3. Lizards and Agama
Colorful agamas, especially the red-headed rock agama, can be seen basking on sunlit rocks. Lizards and geckos also thrive in the rocky environment.
Reptiles (Occasional Sightings)
– Puff Adders and other snakes may be found, though rarely seen due to their shy nature.
– Monitor Lizards are also sometimes spotted near water points.
Predators (Very Rare)
Hell’s Gate is mostly predator-free, which is why walking and cycling are allowed. However:
– Spotted Hyenas may occasionally roam the park at night.
– Leopards are extremely rare and are rarely seen.
– Jackals and mongooses are more commonly encountered, usually in the early morning or late evening.
Ecosystem and Habitat
The park’s grasslands, acacia woodlands, and rocky outcrops support a variety of species. Animals thrive in the open savannahs where visibility is high, while the cliffs and gorges offer shelter and nesting areas for birds and small mammals.
Wildlife Viewing Tips
– Morning and late afternoon are the best times to see wildlife when temperatures are cooler.
– Rent a bike to cover more ground and see more species.
– Bring binoculars for birdwatching and spotting animals in the distance.
– Respect animal space—especially buffaloes and baboons.
– Go with a local guide for deeper knowledge and safety in the gorges.
Activities in Hell’s Gate National Park
Hell’s Gate is not your typical African safari experience. What sets it apart is its interactive, adventure-filled offerings. Instead of viewing wildlife from the confines of a vehicle, you get to walk, hike, bike, and climb in the midst of dramatic landscapes and free-roaming wildlife.
Here’s a breakdown of all the exciting things you can do in the park:
1. Hiking & Nature Walks
Hell’s Gate Gorge Hike
One of the park’s most famous attractions is the Hell’s Gate Gorge (also called Ol Njorowa Gorge), a deep, narrow canyon with steep sandstone walls carved by water and geothermal activity. You can walk through winding paths past:
– Hot springs and steam vents
– Natural columns and eroded rock formations
– A place locals call the “Devil’s Bedroom” and “Devil’s Kitchen”
Note: The gorge may be closed during heavy rains due to the risk of flash floods. Always go with a licensed guide for safety.
2. Cycling Safaris
Hell’s Gate is one of the only parks in Kenya where cycling is allowed, and it’s a favorite among both locals and tourists
You can rent a bike at the Elsa Gate (main entrance) and ride along well-marked trails, with zebras, giraffes, buffalo, and antelope grazing nearby. The route from the main gate to the gorge is about 7–8 km one way, mostly on dirt roads.
Highlights:
– Wildlife viewing up-close (no predators in the area)
– Breathtaking views of Fischer’s Tower and Central Tower
– The thrill of cycling through a national park!
3. Rock Climbing
Hell’s Gate is a rock climber’s paradise, especially at:
– Fischer’s Tower – A 25-meter-high volcanic plug perfect for beginner and intermediate climbers
– Central Tower – Larger and more challenging, ideal for experienced climbers
Local guides are available for those who want to try it out for the first time. The rock faces are suitable for both traditional and sport climbing.
4. Bird Watching
With over 100 bird species, Hell’s Gate is a must-visit for bird enthusiasts.
Common sightings include:
– Verreaux’s Eagles (often seen circling above the cliffs)
– Augur Buzzards
– Secretary Birds
– Rüppell’s Vultures
– Swifts and Rock Martins
Bring binoculars and a camera—you’ll have some great shots!
5. Camping
For those seeking a more immersive experience, camping under the stars is possible at designated campsites like:
– Ol Njorowa Campsite
– Endachata Campsite
You’ll wake up to the sounds of nature and may even spot animals walking nearby. Most campsites are basic, so come prepared with your own gear, water, and food.
6. Visit the Olkaria Geothermal Spa (Nearby)
Just outside the park, you’ll find the Olkaria Geothermal Spa, a naturally heated, man-made lagoon that draws its warm waters from geothermal power production.
Features:
– Warm, mineral-rich water
– Family-friendly pools
– Great for a post-hike or post-bike soak
It’s one of the only natural spas of its kind in East Africa!
7. Photography & Filming
Hell’s Gate’s dramatic landscapes—towering cliffs, steam vents, and wildlife—make it a photographer’s dream. It has been the backdrop for:
– Disney’s The Lion King (inspiration for Pride Rock)
– Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life (filmed here)
Sunrise and sunset lighting are especially magical for landscape photography.
8. Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha (Nearby Activity)
Though not within the park itself, Lake Naivasha is just a short drive away and pairs perfectly with a day at Hell’s Gate. Enjoy:
– Boat rides to see hippos, fish eagles, and pelicans
– Guided tours to Crescent Island for walking safaris
Bonus: Guided Tours & Cultural Add-ons
You can hire local Maasai guides to walk you through the gorge and explain the geology, folklore, and history of the area. Many tour companies also offer **combined day trips** from Nairobi including transport, park fees, bike rentals, and a visit to the geothermal spa.
Tips Before You Go
– Wear comfortable shoes (especially for hiking)
– Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat
– Carry cash for bike rentals, guide fees, and spa access
– Always check weather conditions avoid gorge hikes during rains
– Go early in the day to avoid midday heat