Hell’s Gate National Park

Why visit

There are no elephants or lions to worry about in Hell’s Gate, so instead of watching animals from a vehicle you can ride a bike past grazing zebras and giraffes, with the cliffs rising on either side. The park takes its name from the steam and hot springs in its gorge, and the Olkaria geothermal power stations, among the largest in Africa, stand in and around it. The landscape is often said to have inspired the setting of The Lion King.

What to see and do

• Fischer’s Tower: a tall column of volcanic rock near Elsa Gate, popular with rock climbers.
• The cycle ride: about 7 km from Elsa Gate to the gorge, mostly gently uphill on the way in.
• The Ol Njorowa gorge: a narrow canyon of smooth, mineral-stained rock with hot springs. Walk it with a park guide.
• Central Tower: another volcanic plug, near the head of the gorge.
• The geothermal spa: a large outdoor pool of warm water heated by the Olkaria wells, open to visitors for a fee.

Safety in the gorge

The gorge can flood suddenly when it rains, even if the rain falls far away, and flash floods have killed visitors here. Go only with an official guide, never enter in rain or when it is threatening, and follow any closure. Expect some scrambling over rocks.

Tips

• Check the brakes and tyres of a rented bike before you set off.
• Carry plenty of water and sun protection; there is little shade.
• Read our guide to cycling Hell’s Gate.