Hell's Gate National Park
National Park

Hell's Gate National Park

Dramatic landscapes with unique wildlife and geothermal activity.

Kenya
Location
68.25 km²
Geographic Size
Dry season
Best Time to Visit

About Hell's Gate National Park

Hell's Gate National Park, located near Lake Naivasha in Kenya, is famed for its unique geothermal activity, towering cliffs, and distinctive landscapes that inspired the movie "The Lion King". Unlike other Kenyan national parks, Hell's Gate offers the rare opportunity for visitors to explore on foot or by bicycle, allowing for close encounters wit...

When to go

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Seasons

January - March
July - September
Best time to go
These months offer pleasant weather for exploring the park's attractions and engaging in outdoor activities.
July - September
January - March
High Season
Dry weather makes for ideal hiking and wildlife viewing conditions.
April - June
Low Season
The rainy season can make some trails muddy and slippery, but the park is less crowded, offering a more solitary experience.
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What to do

Wildlife

Hell's Gate National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, baboons, and over 100 species of birds, set against a backdrop of dramatic cliffs, geothermal steam vents, and the picturesque Hell's Gate Gorge.

Lion

Not Present

Elephant

Not Present

Black Rhino

Not Present

Cheetah

Rare

Hippo

Not Present

Hyena

Rare

Leopard

Rare

Giraffe

Common

Zebra

Common

Gazelle

Common

Buffalo

Not Present

Wildebeest

Common

Where to stay

What to know

Safety & Vaccinations
Hell's Gate is considered safe for visitors, with the main precautions being to stay hydrated and protect oneself from the sun. Standard vaccinations for travel to Kenya, including Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, and Typhoid, are recommended, along with malaria prophylaxis.
For more information regarding vaccinations and health notices, view the CDC’s page :
CDC Travelers' Health
CDC Travel health notices and vaccination recommendations
Getting There
Located about 100 km northwest of Nairobi, Hell's Gate is easily accessible by road. The journey offers scenic views of the Great Rift Valley and is well-marked.
Getting Around
The park is one of the few Kenyan national parks where walking and cycling are allowed, offering a unique way to explore the terrain and observe wildlife up close. Guided tours are also available for those interested in rock climbing and exploring the gorges.
Visas
Following Kenya's visa policy, most foreign visitors need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) prior to travel, with certain countries exempt. Ensure to apply for the eTA online well in advance of your trip.
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Frequently Asked Questions