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Hell's Gate National Park
Cycle past zebras beneath towering red cliffs, then hike the gorge.
Location
Beside Lake Naivasha, about 2 hours from Nairobi
Best time
June to October and December to March
Known for
Cycling safaris, Fischer's Tower and the gorge
Ideal stay
A day trip, or 1 to 2 nights at Naivasha
About Hell's Gate
Discover Hell's Gate
Hell’s Gate is one of the few national parks in Kenya where you can leave the vehicle behind and explore by bicycle or on foot. Sheer red cliffs, volcanic towers and steaming vents give it a landscape unlike anywhere else in the Rift Valley.
Zebras, giraffes, buffalo, gazelles and warthogs graze on the open plains, while rock hyrax and birds of prey live along the cliffs. The park lies just south of Lake Naivasha, so it pairs easily with a boat ride on the lake or a walk on Crescent Island.
Highlights
Why visit Hell's Gate
Cycling safari
Ride past zebras, giraffes and buffalo on the park's main track.
Fischer's Tower
A volcanic column at the park entrance, popular with climbers.
The gorge
Hike with a local guide between narrow, sculpted rock walls.
Geothermal steam
See the steam vents of the Olkaria geothermal field.
Experiences
Things to do
- Cycling safari through the park
- Guided hike in the Ol Njorowa Gorge
- Rock climbing at Fischer's Tower
- Soak at the Olkaria geothermal spa
- Boat ride on nearby Lake Naivasha
Seasons
When to visit
June to October
Dry and cool, the best time for cycling and hiking the gorge.
December to March
Warm and mostly dry, with clear views of the cliffs.
April to May and November
Rainy months; the gorge can close after heavy rain.
7 packages
Safari packages that include Hell's Gate
Ready-made itineraries you can book as they are or tailor to your dates and budget.
14 days · From $3,000
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Photos: Antony Trivet, CC BY-SA 4.0; Toppazz, CC BY 3.0; via Wikimedia Commons.