Discover

geothermal activity and
ancient rock formations up close.

Hell’s Gate National Park Wildlife

Walk or cycle among
wildlife and dramatic volcanic scenery

Hell’s Gate National Park offers a unique twist to the traditional African safari. Located near Lake Naivasha in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, it’s famed for dramatic cliffs, deep gorges, geothermal springs, and the freedom to explore on foot or by bicycle.

Covering 68.25 square kilometres, this compact park is rich in geological history and cinematic fame—it inspired the landscapes of Disney’s “The Lion King.”

Visitors don’t need a vehicle to spot wildlife. Zebras, giraffes, and antelopes roam freely while travellers walk or cycle past steaming vents and sheer canyon walls.

Towering Fischer’s Tower and the Central Tower are ideal for climbing, while Ol Njorowa Gorge invites guided hikes through sculpted rock corridors and hot springs.

More than just a wildlife haven, Hell’s Gate’s thrilling terrain and accessibility make it perfect for adventurous day trips from Nairobi or Naivasha.

Map

Hell’s Gate Highlights

Learn memorable highlights featuring Hell’s Gate’s towering cliffs, geothermal features, and thrilling outdoor adventure opportunities in an inspiring setting.

  • Explore geothermal cliffs, steaming vents, and dramatic hot springs shaped by ancient volcanic eruptions within this thrilling Great Rift Valley park.
  • Cycle past towering gorges, zebras, warthogs, and gazelles on scenic trails carved into Hell’s Gate’s rugged, wildlife-filled canyon landscapes.
  • Hike Ol Njorowa Gorge with a local guide through sculpted sandstone walls, geothermal steam, and narrow paths shaped by time.
  • Climb Fischer’s Tower or Central Tower and experience a vertical adventure surrounded by dramatic cliffs and playful baboons watching nearby.
  • Discover Hell’s Gate’s cinematic views and volcanic landmarks that inspired the wild landscapes seen in Disney’s The Lion King.
  • Extend your trip to Lake Naivasha—enjoy Birdwatching, hippo spotting, boat rides, and peaceful overnight stays on the lakeshore.

Activities to Do in Hell’s Gate National Park

Hell’s Gate is Kenya’s ultimate self-guided park, perfect for those seeking freedom, geology, and active exploration in raw nature.

Best Time to Visit Hell’s Gate National Park

The best time to visit Hell’s Gate National Park is June to February, when dry weather supports hiking, cycling, and outdoor adventures.

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  • Excellent
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Hell’s Gate National Park Dry Season

Weather by Season

Dry Season: June to October
These are the best months for exploring the park’s gorges and trails. Clear skies, firm terrain, and pleasant temperatures (daytime highs around 24°C/75°F) make it perfect for hiking and cycling. Wildlife is active, and photography conditions are excellent throughout the day.

Wet Season: November to May
November and April are the wettest months. Trails in the gorge may become slippery or inaccessible due to flooding. However, the landscape becomes lush, and crowds are fewer. If visiting during this period, mornings are best before afternoon showers. Temperatures remain moderate year-round, averaging 23°C/73°F.

Hell’s Gate National Park Wet Season

Accommodations

There are no lodges inside Hell’s Gate, but a wide range of accommodations are available in nearby Lake Naivasha—just a few kilometers away. Choose from budget-friendly camps, rustic cottages, or luxurious lakeside lodges.

Hell’s Gate National Park

Kenya

Angama Mara

Luxury Lodge

Hell’s Gate National Park

Kenya

Ol Donyo Lodge

Luxury Lodge

Hell’s Gate National Park

Kenya

Sirikoi Lodge

Luxury Lodge

wildlife To See

  • Hell’s Gate National Park wildlife To See

    Giraffe

  • Hell’s Gate National Park wildlife To See

    Warthog

  • Hell’s Gate National Park wildlife To See

    Gazelle

  • Hell’s Gate National Park wildlife To See

    Zebra

  • Hell’s Gate National Park wildlife To See

    Buffalo

Get To
Hell’s Gate

The main entry point to Kenya is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), located 15km southeast of Nairobi. From Nairobi, Hell’s Gate is a 2-hour drive northwest along a tarred road. It lies 100km from the capital and 18km west of Naivasha. Many travellers visit on a day trip or as part of a combined Lake Naivasha itinerary. The road is scenic and safe, with the Rift Valley escarpment offering beautiful views along the way.

 Get To Hell’s Gate

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