Attraction Description

Hell's Gate National Park lies south of Lake Naivasha in Kenya, north west of Nairobi. 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. It was established in 1984.

Best time to visit:

Hell’s Gate is open for wildlife viewing throughout the year however the rainy season could impede your touring during the wet season months of March through May.

Operating Hours:

The park is open from 0600 hrs. to 1800 hrs. daily.

Getting there:

By road – you can book a tour with Samson Tours and Safaris from the coast or Nairobi. From Nairobi, you’ll take the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway. The drive affords fantastic views of the Rift Valley.

Things to do and see

Hiking

The park is an ideal place to follow nature trails and get close to the plentiful grazing wildlife. With a ranger you can explore the park’s exotic gorges, cut into the rock over eons by the steady passing of water.

Not to be missed is Hell’s Gate Gorge, the inspiration behind “pride rock” from the Disney movie, “The Lion King”. The filmmakers came to the park to study this formation to be replicated in their film.

Mountain biking

Cycling is a great and unique way to view the antelope, zebra and other foraging animals. Take the “buffalo circuit” for views of giraffe and the nearby Longonot volcano.

Climbing

Fisher’s Tower and Central Tower are extinct volcanos with perfect rock walls for climbing. You’ll need a guide but they’re easy and rewarding climbs.

Mervyn Carnelley Raptor Hide

This is a camouflaged viewing platform with a one-way window to view the many raptors in the park.

Ol Karia Geothermal Spa

The largest natural spa on the continent, it has been described as an “endless bathtub”. The spa features very warm, all-natural mineral water brought in as steam and allowed to cool. Relaxing and healthful after a day of hiking and biking.

Discover Hell’s Gate National Park

There’s so much to do in this small but very special national park. Enjoy the many kinds of safaris available here as you take in the dramatic canyons, peaks and spires. You’re sure to see abundant wildlife and thrill to the views, the steamy “atmosphere” and the land that inspired “The Lion King”. Join us on safari to this wonderful park. We have safaris departing from Nairobi, Mombasa and other coastal resorts going to Hell’s Gate and other great Kenya Parks.