Ultimate Guide: Safari in Hells Gate National Park

Hells Gate National Park is located in Nakuru County in Kenya. It’s one of the most popular parks in the region because of its easy access from Nairobi, the country’s capital city. There is also a variety of wildlife and breathtaking landscapes which makes any visit worth it.

Understandably, Hells Gate National Park borders the Lake Nakuru National Park, one of the greatest attractions in the Rift Valley. It covers about 68 square kilometers in size and lies 6,200 ft. above sea level. The climate is mild year-round and temperature typically varies from 75°F to 88°F.

Within this park, there is the Hell’s Gate Gorge, a major point of attraction. The gorge is lined with colorful cliffs which contain two massive volcanic formations namely, Fischer’s Tower and Central Tower. A smaller gorge also extends from the Central Tower leading to an area of hot springs.

Why visit Hells Gate National Park

Unlike other parks, Hells Gate National Park has few dangerous wild animals. Don’t expect to see the big cats roaming the park.  This means tourists can enjoy a unique combination of outdoor activities, wildlife, and geological wonders without being in their vehicles.

Despite the park’s intimidating name, Hells Gate is one of the best places to visit in Kenya. The setting inspired the Disney movie Lion King. Here are interesting things at the Hells Gate.

Wildlife viewing

Hells Gate National Park has a wide variety of wildlife. Although not as many as those found in the Masai Mara National Reserve, visitors can enjoy viewing a few predators like lion, hyena, leopard, serval, and cheetah. Giraffes, buffalo, zebra, antelope, eland, gazelle, and baboons are also common.

Historically, Hells Gate has been an important home to raptors and other birds. More than 103 species have been recorded. Augur buzzards, Verreaux’s eagles, and vultures live on cliffs and rocky areas of this park. This includes rare species like the Ruppel’s vultures, hooded vultures, and the bearded vultures.

Stunning landscapes

The park features stunning landscapes shaped by volcanic activity. Towering cliffs, gorges, obsidian caves, and geothermal steam vents are exhilarating formations. The Hell’s Gate Ol Njorowa Gorge, in particular, offers a dramatic backdrop for exploration.

The colorful rock strata is the result of ever separating Great Rift Valley and erosion by water which started millions of years ago. The gorge is home to other great signs in the park including cold and hot water geysers.  Although hot enough to cause burns, its surprising to see vegetation growing around them.

A stop near the glassy caves at the park’s entrance is simply magical. These obsidian rocks were once molten lava which quickly solidified by moving water. High concentration of magnesium and iron makes them vary in color, changing from sandy orange to forest green.

Hiking and cycling

Hells Gate is one of the few national parks in Kenya where visitors can engage in cycling and trekking. A nature walk from the park’s main gate, Elsa, to the central valley feels fantastic. Descending further from Central Tower right into the Lower Gorge is not only calming but magical.

Cycling paths in the park also cut through a variety of landscapes. While on some trails, you get treated to the bewildering sight of cold and hot springs, obsidian caves, and colored rocks.

Guides Guides can be arranged to take you through various terrains and routes as you enjoy your biking or nature walks.

Visitors who prefer cycling are encouraged to rent a bicycle at the Elsa Gate, the entrance to Hell’s Gate National Park. Before paying for the bike, test to ensure everything is working properly. You can also bring your bicycle but a small additional fee is charged. 

Note: Even though Hell Gate has no aggressive predators, void any provocative behavior towards the animals. Don’t shout or throw any item at them as this may trigger an attack.

Rock climbing

Fischer’s Tower, approximately 25 meters in height, is a popular formation in the Hells Gate National Park. It was formed by molten rock shooting through a fissure in the ground millions of years ago. The tower stands tall above the plains which makes it great for rock climbing. 

While on this cliff, you can have a great view of the wonderful surroundings including gorges and animals passing by. This tower has great cultural significance for local Maasai communities. They claim that it was once a local girl, who turned to stone for turning back before her customary wedding.

Camping

Camping is one of the most interesting things to do at the Hells Gate National Park. Falling asleep to the eerie sound of a hyena’s cackle is something out of this world. Even though there is no fencing barricading wild animals, all the campsites at the park are safe.

Typically, there are three campsites at the Hells Gate. They include Olduvai, Nairburta, and Endcharta. They all have toilets, showers, and areas where you can prepare your meals. If you decide to camp, bring your camping gear, firewood, cookware, and firewood.

For those looking for a more comfortable warm night and well-prepared meals or breakfast, there are a variety of lodges around the park to choose from. They include Camp Carnelley’s, Lake Naivasha Simba Lodge, Fish Eagle Inn, Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort and Elsamere Lodge.

Note: Hell’s Gate National Park is open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Visitors who don’t plan to camp in the park must exit before it closes.

Olkaria Geothermal Spa

Visitors to the Hells Gate National Park can enjoy soaking in the naturally heated pools at the Olkaria Geothermal Spa. The milky-blue waters are believed to have therapeutic properties due to their high mineral content and the warmth provided by the geothermal activity. 

Olkaria Geothermal Spa offers a relaxing experience amidst the picturesque surroundings of the Rift Valley. In addition, tourists and locals can also learn about geothermal energy generation through guided tours of the Olkaria Geothermal Power Station – one of the  Kenya’s renewable energy plants.

Note: Entrance fee applies for Olkaria Geothermal Spa. The facility closes at 6PM, an hour before Hell’s Gate National Park closes.

How to get to the Hells Gate National Park

Most local tourists prefer day trips to Hell’s Gate from Nairobi and nearby Naivasha or Nakuru towns. The parks is merely 2-3 hour drive from Nairobi. International travelers need to enter the country through the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or Wilson Airport located in the country’s capital city.

The most efficient way from Nairobi to the park is by road. So, you can hire a private car, taxi or use public transport. Arranging your safari through a tour operator ahead of your trip can be more convenient. They will cater for your accommodation, transport and guide services. 

When is the best time to visti Hell’s Gate National park?

Hells Gate National Park can be visited at any time of the year. Climate is generally mild-year round. However, sighting wildlife is supposedly best in the dry season of June  through October. At this time of the year, grass is short and animals gather at few sources of water available.

March to May is a rainy season in the region and this can be a challenge to those who plan to hike. During the rainy season, trails are slippery and flush floods are a real risk. In the year 2019, a tragic accident in the park claimed 6 lives after a flash flood engulfed a narrow gorge.

Since then visitors are no longer allowed to enter the gorge independently. As of 2023, the lowest section of the gorge remains closed. However, there is still plenty to explore within the gorge, but you must cautiously plan your expectations accordingly.

Hell’s Gate Park Entry Fees

Hell’s Gate National Park is managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service. This government agency is mandated to determine what visitors need to pay while visiting various parks in the country. Here’s the Hells gate entry fee as of 2024.

Tourist type	Children	Adults
Residents	Ksh. 215	Ksh.300
Non-residents	$17 (USD)	$ 26 (USD)

What to bring with you to Hells gate

When visiting Hell’s Gate, it’s essential to come prepared for a day of outdoor exploration. Here’s a list of items you might want to bring with you.

• Adequate supply of water to last the duration of your visit. You must stay hydrated, especially if you plan on hiking or biking in the park.
• Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from sunburn and glare.
• Light, breathable clothing suitable for outdoor activities. Consider long sleeves and pants to protect against sunburn and insect bites.
• Comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking or hiking. Some trails in the park may be rugged or rocky.
• Pack some light snacks and a picnic lunch if you plan on spending the day in the park.
• Binoculars can help in  enhancing your wildlife viewing experience. You may also need a camera to capture stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters.
• Basic first aid kit with essentials such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, insect repellent and any personal medications you may need.
• Some facilities in the park may not accept credit cards, so it’s advisable to bring some cash.

Final thought

Hell’s Gate is one of the popular national parks in Kenya. It is known for its towering cliffs, deep gorges, geothermal activity, and diverse wildlife, making it a popular destination for tourists. Tourists can also hike, climb rocks and camp at the park.