Hell's Gate National Park

Pros & Cons

• Great day trip from Lake Naivasha
• Stunning volcanic scenery
• Unguided walking and cycling permitted
• Inexpensive accommodation in nearby Naivasha
• The park is very under-utilized and never gets busy
• Many major safari animals are absent
• There is only a small game-drive circuit

Wildlife

Hell’s Gate is not a big wildlife safari destination. Of the Big Five, only buffalo are seen, while leopard are around but seldom encountered. Giraffe, zebra, eland, hartebeest and Thomson's gazelle are common. Olive baboons are often seen perched on the cliffs while a good spotter might pick up a pair of klipspringers. Less common is the Chanler's mountain reedbuck, which can be found grazing on the grassy slopes.

• More about Hell's Gate’s wildlife

Scenery

The main attraction of Hell’s Gate NP is its dramatic scenery. The name refers to the steep-sided valley running through the park. The volcanic landscape is dominated by dormant volcanos and several ancient lava plugs sticking out from the valley floor.

Weather & Climate

The climate at Hell’s Gate is similar to other places near the equator in that temperatures are fairly consistent year-round. What makes it unusual is its altitude, which is high enough to lend a distinct coolness to the air, particularly at night. The Dry season (June to October) sees plenty of blue-sky days, while the Wet season (November to May) trades the sunshine for afternoon showers.

• More about the weather and climate

Best Time to Visit

Except for the Christmas season, Hell’s Gate gets relatively few visitors, so you don’t have to factor that into the timing of your visit. The Dry season (June to October) is the best time to go wildlife watching, as the animals are easier to observe in the thinned-out bush. The wetter months, on the other hand, reward you with nesting birds of prey, and the vegetation is in full bloom.

• More about the best time to visit

Want to Visit Hell's Gate NP?

• Hell's Gate safaris and tours
• Tour operators for Hell's Gate