Hells Gate National Park: An Overview
Location
Hell’s Gate National Park is located south of Lake Naivasha in the Great Rift Valley area, close to the town of Nakuru, Kenya
Size
The Hells Gate National Park is 25.35 square kilometres.
History
Hells Gate was officially established in 1984 and named after a Gorge which once was a tributary of a prehistoric lake supplying locals of the Rift Valley. Mount Longonot Volcano is nearby and in 1883, explorers Fisher and Thomson named the Gorge “Hell’s Gate”. In the early 1900s, the volcano erupted, leaving behind remnants still seen today.
Entrance Fees & Permits
The entrance fee to Hell’s Gate National Park is USD 30 per adult and USD 20 per child
Hours of Operation
Hell’s Gate National Park is open between 6 am and 6 pm daily
By Road
The drive from Nairobi is approximately 55 miles and takes roughly two hours. The road runs through the scenic Rift Valley escarpment.
By Air
A short flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Naivasha Airport and guests can then transfer by road the 17 miles to Hell’s Gate National Park.
Weather & Climate
The climate at Hell’s Gate National Park is moderate, with average daily temperatures reaching 78 degrees Fahrenheit during the dry, winter season between June and August, and into the spring months of September and October. The short rains fall between November and early January. The long rains come down from March to May. Visitors looking to hike or embark on a safari should consider visiting in the cooler winter months between June and August.
Avoiding Crowds
Visitors looking to avoid crowds when visiting Hell’s Gate National Park should consider travelling outside the dry, winter months between June and August. Visiting the park between the short and long rains, January and February will offer them the chance of more availability, fewer vehicles out on safari, and excellent birdlife sightings.
Value for Money
As Hell’s Gate National Park is not one of the most-visited national parks in Kenya, there is an opportunity for quality safari and adventure experiences at a much lower price than other key reserves in the country. Accommodations will be located mostly outside of Hell’s Gate National Park, with options located within the park. These are mostly mid-range to chain-style hotels, all moderately priced.
Popular Wildlife Sightings in Hell’s Gate National Park
Wonderful sightings of plains game such as Thomson’s Gazelle, zebra, elands, warthog and Masai giraffe can be spotted in the Hell’s Gate National Park. Rare sightings of leopards and the occasional sightings of buffalo have been recorded. In the early evening, visitors may glimpse the black-backed jackal and hyena. The birdlife is outstanding with over 100 bird species found in the area.
The Terrain
The terrain of Hell’s Gate National Park is gorgeous with volcanic rock formations and dramatic cliffs, deep gorges and surrounding open grassland.
Game Drives
Hells Gate National Park is a unique safari destination in that apart from the elusive leopard, there are no big cats in the park, and it is extremely popular with hikers, cyclists and rock climbers. Game drives in enclosed 4×4 vehicles can be conducted in the park. Bicycles can be rented for around USD 5 per person, a fantastic way to explore the park.
Guided Walking Safaris
The Hell’s Gate National Park is the perfect destination for experiencing wildlife and wilderness by hiking, biking or self-guided walks. It is not necessary to have a guided walk, however, this can be done if specifically requested. Rock climbing is also popular in the park.
Mount Longonot
This stratovolcano is an impressive mountain, offering adventure and a haven of wildlife.
Lake Naivasha
This exquisite safari park and lodge is a fantastic complement to the rocky and forested landscape of Hell’s Gate National Park.