The central Kenyan Aberdare hills are home to the protected Aberdare National Park. East of the eastern rift valley is where the park is located. The Aberdare Mountain Range includes the about 766 square kilometer Aberdare National Park, which was created in May 1950. With a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, leopards, and various kinds of primates, notably the well-known black-and-white colobus monkey, it is well known for its rich biodiversity.
The atmospheric conditions at a certain place and time are commonly referred to as the weather. It included a number of elements, including the temperature, wind, precipitation, sunshine, cloud cover, and dryness. Six primary criteria are used to evaluate the weather at Aberdare National Park: air temperature, air pressure, humidity, cloud cover type and extent, precipitation (both quantity and kind), wind direction, and wind steepness. All of these factors work together to describe the park’s weather at any particular time.
Significant elevation variations can be seen in the Aberdare Range, which spans 1,952 to 3,894 meters (6,404 to 12,776 feet). The temperature at Aberdare National Park drops by about 6.5 degrees Celsius for every 1,000 meters (or 3.5 degrees Fahrenheit for every 1,000 feet) in elevation, creating a variety of climates across the region. The weather is often cold and frequently misty. Up to 3,000 millimeters of rain fall on the southeast part of the park each year, which helps to maintain a high rainfall pattern all year long. Because of its closeness to the equator, the temperature is consistent all year round. To guarantee comfort and dryness during your trip, it is essential to include warm, waterproof gear.
Aberdare National Park’s climate and weather Aberdare National Park wildlife
In Aberdare National Park, which is open all year round, there are two distinct seasons that occur throughout the year.
Despite being categorized as the dry season, Aberdare National Park receives a lot of rainfall during this time. Early mornings can be very cold, frequently falling just above freezing, while daytime temperatures usually range from 15 to 15 degrees Celsius (59 to 64 degrees Fahrenheit). The park experiences the coldest months of the year during this season, which is characterized by lower temperatures.
Rain can fall at any time of day, but there will be plenty of sunshine from June to July. It is often approximately 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit) in the afternoon.To keep comfortable during these winter months, it is advised to dress in warm, water-resistant gear.
Rainfall somewhat increases in August, and temperatures start to rise further in September. During this time, afternoon temperatures can rise to as high as 16 degrees Celsius (61 degrees Fahrenheit).
Although there is a dry period between December and February that separates the “short rains” from the “long rains,” Aberdare National Park’s wet season runs from October to May. Many dark, dreary days with sporadic, prolonged, heavy downpours are to be expected throughout this time.
Rainfall usually falls between October and November, with a noticeable spike in precipitation starting in October. During this time, afternoon temperatures often range from 17 to 63 degrees Celsius.
Compared to the long rainy season, December, January, and February are characterized by shorter rainy seasons with less precipitation. There will probably be some rainy days, even if the exact timing of these downpours can change at any time. It is the warmest season of the year, with afternoon highs typically reaching about 18 degrees Celsius (64 degrees Fahrenheit).
In this area, these months are referred to as the “long rain” season, with April usually being the wettest month. Even though it’s usually raining, the downpours don’t last all day. On the trails, though, this may result in difficult and slick conditions. The average temperature in the early mornings is about 50 degrees Celsius (41 degrees Fahrenheit), which is a little warmer.
Hiking routes and a range of natural beauties may be found in Kereita Forest, which is located south of the Aberdare Ranges. The Carbacid trail is one of the most well-traveled routes, leading to Kereita Waterfall on the Gatamaiyu River and a neighboring cave that is home to a small bat colony.
Elephants frequently visit the Elephant Pool, a sizable natural reservoir, to rest and drink as you climb. The trails include a bamboo stroll where visitors can see Black and White Columbus Monkeys and Skyes. It is best to go during the dry season to maximize your journey and have an even more pleasurable time.
The sole lake in Nyeri County, Lake Ol Bolossat, is known for being an essential habitat for more than 180 different bird species, making it a birder’s dream. Hippos are among the more than 15 animal species that call it home. In addition to the lake, tourists can explore neighboring sites such the Lord Baden Powell Garden, the Scout Information Center, and the Dedan Kimathi Shrine in Tetu. The old Italia War Memorial Church, the Game Sanctuary, Solio Ranch, and the Mau Mau Caves in Naru Moru woodland are further noteworthy locations. Additionally, there are three other routes—Chogoria, Sirimon, and Naru Moru—for mountain lovers to trek Mount Kenya from Nyeri County.
The Scout Movement’s founder, writer, and lieutenant-general in the British Army, Lord Baden Powell, is laid to rest in Nyeri’s St. Paul’s Cemetery, which has been restructured as one of Kenya’s National Shrines. The distinctive symbol “ʘ” on his tombstone means “I have gone home” or “going home.” Her cremated bones were also buried next to him in Nyeri following the death of his lover Olave. Because of its year-round accessibility via a tarmacked road, the place is well worth a visit for anyone looking to explore the area.
Located at the base of the Outspan Hotel, Kikuyu Village provides guests with a genuine look into Agikuyu culture. Traditional Kikuyu dancers in traditional clothes can be seen in this lively community. The hamlet is a great place for people who want to experience the rich customs of the Kikuku people.