Misty forests, thundering waterfalls and wildlife you won’t find on Kenya’s savannah: Aberdare National Park is one of the most unusual parks in the country. Sandai Farm lies near Mweiga, just a short drive from the park, and offers five fully equipped self-catering cottages. The perfect base for exploring the Aberdares at your own pace, and coming back to a quiet farm in the evening.
Why Sandai is the ideal base for the Aberdares
- Close to the park: the park headquarters are located in Mweiga, near Sandai Farm
- Your own cottage: cook when you like, set off early for a game drive and come back whenever you want
- Safaris arranged for you: day trips into the Aberdares can be organised directly from Sandai, including transport and guides
- More than a place to sleep: horseback riding, yoga, archery, a restaurant and café on the farm
- Between two mountains: the Aberdares on one side, Mount Kenya on the other
Aberdare National Park at a glance
Established in 1950, Aberdare National Park protects part of the Aberdare Range in Central Kenya. The park rises from around 2,000 metres to over 4,000 metres above sea level. This creates a series of very different landscapes: dense montane forest and bamboo on the lower slopes, open moorland higher up, and deep valleys where rivers plunge over spectacular waterfalls. Thanks to the altitude, the climate is cool and often misty, which gives the park its unique atmosphere.
Highlights of the Aberdares
Waterfalls
The waterfalls are the signature of the Aberdares. Karuru Falls is the tallest waterfall in Kenya and drops in three stages through a forested gorge. On the opposite side of the same gorge lies Gura Falls. Chania Falls and Magura Falls are also well worth a visit, and at some of the falls you can leave your vehicle and walk to viewpoints.
Wildlife in the forest
Instead of open plains, animals move through thick forest here, which makes every sighting special. The park is home to elephants, buffaloes, leopards and black rhinos, as well as bushbucks, waterbucks and giant forest hogs. Its most famous resident is the rare mountain bongo, a shy forest antelope found in very few places in Africa.
Birdwatching
With more than 250 recorded bird species, the Aberdares are one of Kenya’s important birding areas. Look out for crowned eagles, sunbirds and colourful turacos in the forest.
Hiking and trout fishing
The high peaks of the range offer challenging hikes, and the park’s rivers are known for trout fishing. A fishing licence is required and can be obtained at the park headquarters.
A touch of history
The Aberdares are also home to Treetops, the famous lodge where Princess Elizabeth became Queen in 1952 after learning of her father’s death.
Tips for your visit
- Four-wheel drive: roads in the park can become difficult, especially after rain. A 4×4 vehicle is strongly recommended, or let us arrange a guided trip for you.
- Plan a full day: the waterfalls lie in the higher parts of the park. Start early to have enough time.
- Warm clothes: at higher altitudes it can be cold and foggy, even during the day.
- Best time to visit: the drier months, roughly January to February and June to September, are usually best for game viewing and road conditions.
- Park fees: please check current entrance fees and payment options with the Kenya Wildlife Service before your visit.
Combine it with Solio Rhino Sanctuary
Less than an hour from Sandai lies Solio Rhino Sanctuary, one of Africa’s oldest and most successful rhino sanctuaries. While the Aberdares are all about forest and waterfalls, Solio offers open grassland and excellent chances to see both black and white rhinos. Staying on Sandai, you can easily explore both on separate days. Further day trips and safaris are also available from the farm.
Our cottages near the Aberdares
For couples: the roundhouses Azizi & Zawadi are cosy Kenyan-style cottages for two.
For families: the medium-sized cottages Makena & Chui sleep 4+2 each and can be booked together.
For groups: our large cottage Punda Milia sleeps up to 8.
Coming from Nairobi? Read our tips for a weekend getaway from Nairobi.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Sandai Farm from Aberdare National Park?
Sandai lies near Mweiga, where the park headquarters are located. The park is just a short drive from the farm.
Can I visit the Aberdares without my own 4×4?
Yes. Guided day trips into the park can be arranged directly from Sandai, including transport and a guide.
Is one day enough for Aberdare National Park?
One full day is enough to see the waterfalls and do a game drive in the forest. If you want to hike or go fishing, plan an extra day.
Are there special rates for Kenyan residents?
Yes, we offer resident rates for our cottages.
Book your stay near the Aberdares
Ready to explore forests, waterfalls and rhinos? Check availability for your dates. We look forward to welcoming you to Sandai. Karibu!
