Warthogs at Hells Gate National Park

Hell's Gate National Park lies south of Lake Naivasha in Kenya.

Hell's Gate National Park

Understand

Hell's Gate National Park was established in 1984 and named after a narrow break in the cliffs. The park is mostly known for its scenery, what includes the Fischer's Tower and Central Tower columns and the Hell's Gate Gorge. It is also a good place to meet giraffes, zebras or warthogs face to face while walking or biking through the park.

Fees/Permits

• US$30 for non-resident adults
• KSH700 for adult residents
• KSH350 for a car (less than 6 seats)

The entry fee has to be paid at the entrance gates.

See

Hell's Gate Gorge

• 1 Hell's Gate Gorge (Ol Njorowa). Its a narrow sandstone gorge which was sculpted by water and light. In some places it can be slippery and you need to know where to put your feet. That's why a guide is recommanded. The rangers will ask for 500KSh p.p. while just after the gate locals will wait to do so for less and for a whole group. If your not going with an official guide you have to sign in and out at the Ranger's Post. 
• 2 Central Tower Gorge. The Central Tower Gorge is the main creek coming from the left hand side when you walk the Hell's Gate Gorge. Since there was an deadly accident with 7 Kenyan university students because of flooding waters most guides pass this way. Do not go there without a guide. 
• 3 Fischer's Tower. A 25m-high volcanic column named after the German explorer, who reached the gorge in 1882. It's the starting point for a wide and deep valley surrounded by red rock walls. Zebras, Giraffe and warthog are seen in this 7km long strech leading to the Gorges. 

Do

• Cycling. From the Elsa Gate to the Hell's Gate Gorge its a flat 7km dirt road. Cycling is a good option to see a few African animals face to face. It is a good experience, but be prepared for the burning afternoon sun. There are bikes for rent in many hotels and also at the junction to the Elsa Gate. 
• Climbing. The rock walls are just made for climbing. An easy but famous climb is the Fischer's Tower. You need equipment and a guiding to climb in the park, so ask before in your hotel. 

Eat

If you plan to do a day trip, go with some food and refreshments because you won't find any inside the park.

Drink

Water and softdrinks can be bought in the Elsa Gate shop and at the Ranger's Post at the Hell's Gate Gorge.

Sleep

Camping

There are three basic camping sites in the national park.

Go next

• Nairobi
• Mount Longonot National Park
• Lake Naivasha