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Hell’s Gate National Park
Buffalo Springs National Reserve
October 3, 2023
Nairobi National Park
October 3, 2023
Hell’s Gate National Park (A Walk on the Wild Side)
Named for the intense geothermal activity within its boundaries, Hell’s Gate National Park is a superb beauty. The National Park is located to the south of Lake Naivasha in Kenya, northwest of Nairobi. Hell’s Gate National Park lies in the Rift Valley, covered by ashes from the Longonot eruption which occurred 100 years ago.
While on Kenya Safaris, you will enjoy spectacular scenery including the towering cliffs, water-gouged gorges, stark rock towers, scrub-clad volcanoes, and belching plumes of geothermal steam. Hell’s Gate is an ideal destination for a day trip from Nairobi which is just a few hours’ drive.
The National Park is a designated World Heritage Site (UNESCO). Hell’s Gate National Park is named after a narrow break in the cliffs, once a tributary of a prehistoric lake that fed early humans in the Rift Valley. This small national park is known for its wide variety of wildlife species and for its scenery that you will truly be amazed at.
Some of the spectacular features and sceneries include the Fischer’s Tower and Central Tower columns and Hell’s Gate Gorge. These offer exceptional views with scenic topography and rugged terrains. Hell’s Gate National Park is also known for the five geothermal power stations at Olkaria.
This safari park is one of the most popular in Kenya because of its easy access from Nairobi, as well as the abundant wildlife that can be easily spotted during safaris in the park. Acacia Safaris Limited will help you plan your dream Kenya Safari tour to this amazing park. Book your next Kenya trip with us and unfold the untold truth about Africa.
Hell’s Gate National Park
Attractions in Hell’s Gate National Park
Wildlife
Despite being small in size, Hell’s Gate National Park is a top safari destination for wildlife safaris in Kenya. Some of the most spotted wildlife species include; Giraffe, eland, hartebeest, buffalo, small gazelles, and antelopes, which can all be spotted across the park’s grassy plains. The big cats like Lions, leopards, and cheetahs also occur also rarely seen.
African buffalo, zebra, eland, hartebeest, Thomson’s gazelle, hyena, and baboons are also common. The National Park also acts as home to some small troops of klipspringer and rock hyrax, both living in rocky areas in the Park.
Birdlife in Hell’s Gate National Park
Hell’s Gate National Park has a few birdlife species despite being small. The National Park counts 103 species of birds and the cliffs are home and nesting places for these birds. The large white droppings on the rocks indicate nests of vultures, eagles, and augur buzzards. Some rare species like the Verreaux’s eagle and the Lammergeyer, Ruppel’s griffon, and hooded vultures have been recorded in the park.
Fischers Tower
The Fischers Tower is 25 25-meter (75 Ft.) high rocky tower that was formed by semi-molten rock forced to a fissure, cooling and solidifying as it extruded. It is located near the main entrance of the park. According to the Maasai community folklore, the tower is a Maasai girl who was turned into stone after disobeying the family before her wedding.
Obsidian Caves
The other shouldn’t miss feature while here is the Obsidian Caves. These Obsidian caves and their distinctive black glass-like obsidian rock are located on the Buffalo Circuit. The rocks offer a beautiful view with their glass-like rock. Obsidian rock is a result of the rapid cooling of molten volcanic lava coming into contact with water while being poured into a lake or ocean. Iron and magnesium give the obsidian a dark green to black color.
Obsidian can contain small air bubbles that are aligned along layers. These bubbles can produce interesting effects such as a golden sheen, known as Sheen Obsidian, or a rainbow sheen called Rainbow Obsidian. Small nuggets of obsidian that have been naturally rounded and smoothed by wind and water are called Apache Tears.
Best things to do while at Hell’s Gate National Park – Activities and experiences at Hell’s Gate National Park
Wildlife watching
Although Hell’s Gate is not as famous for its wildlife as some other national parks in Kenya; it still offers an opportunity to spot animals like zebras, giraffes, elands, warthogs, and several bird species. Keep your eyes peeled and enjoy observing the local wildlife.
Wildlife safaris to this amazing safari park are truly amazing and rewarding. You can enjoy watching the various wildlife species on a game drive safari or nature-guided walking safari. if you are taking on the nature-guided walk, you will need to hire a well-trained and armed ranger guide to lead you during the tour.
Walking safari
Hell’s Gate is one of the few national parks in Kenya where you can take a walking safari. These walking safaris allow you to explore this amazing safari park while on foot, with a great opportunity to enjoy nature up close. You will explore the park on foot and get up close to wildlife such as zebras, and giraffes, among others.
Cycling
you can rent a bicycle and explore the park’s scenic landscapes on wheels. Cycling is a popular activity in Hell’s Gate, and you can ride through the dramatic cliffs, gorges, and geothermal formations.
Rock climbing
The Park is known for its impressive cliffs, making it a perfect destination for rock climbing enthusiasts. Challenge yourself to climb these unique formations, with varying difficulty levels suitable for different experience levels.
Visit the hot springs
Hell’s Gate is home to several natural hot springs, which are a result of the geothermal activity in the area. Take a dip in the warm waters and relax while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Visit the Olkaria Geothermal Spa
Located near Hell’s Gate National Park, the Olkaria Geothermal Spa offers a unique wellness experience. Soak in hot mineral water pools, receive massages, and indulge in spa treatments while surrounded by stunning views.
Camping
Spend a night under the stars by camping in one of the designated camping areas within the park. Enjoy a bonfire; listen to the sounds of nature, and wake up to the beautiful sights of Hell’s Gate.
Visit the Hell’s Gate Gorge
Explore the deep gorge that gives the park its name. Hike through the narrow canyon, squeeze through narrow passages, and admire the unique geological formations.
Acacia Safaris Limited is the best tour operator that will help you plan your ultimate Kenya adventure. Our exceptional experience in organizing safaris in East Africa is exceptional. Plan your dream Kenya safari with the best inbound ground handler.
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