High Peaks & Waterfalls
Central Highlands & Rift Valley, Kenya
The Aberdares are the third highest range of mountains in Kenya, reaching a summit of just over 4000m. This massive range is well known for its thick salient forests, and their prolific game. These high altitude forests are broken by moorlands and plains, and through the abundant tree cover there are sensational views of the Rift Valley and the peak of Mt Kenya.
The Aberdares can be explored by vehicle, or on foot. There are trekking trails throughout the forests, and across the moorlands. A few days spent here is one of Kenya’s best forest treks.
The foothills of the Aberdares are ideal for exploring on horseback and there are crystal clear mountain streams that abound with Trout. The Aberdares are a great place for waterfalls. There are a series of spectacular falls along the range, and at Nyahururu, Thompson's Falls have became a popular rest stop for travellers.
Background
The Aberdare range is traditionally Kikuyu land, known originally as Nyandarura the name for a traditional rack for drying animals skins and hides, which the spine of the range resembles. The Kikuyu have long used these fertile slopes as farmland.
The current name was given by British Explorer Joseph Thompson in 1884, to honour of Lord Aberdare then President of the Royal Geographic Society. Thompson was a prodigious bestower of names, particularly his own. He is responsible for the Thompson's Gazelle, and in the foothills of the Aberdares, the local landmark of Thompson's Falls can also be found.
Today the Aberdares are a gazetted National Park, and the surrounding slopes are predominantly Kikuyu farmland.
Relaxing
This area is the heartland of the Kikuyu, and visitors may wish to sample some traditional Kikuyu cuisine, widely available in these areas. Favourites include Irio and Githeri, both bean and maize based stews. This area is also known for it woven wool products, including matting and clothing.
This is the heartland of the Kikuyu, and you may want to buy an example of the best known Kikuyu handicraft, a Kiondoo. These very useful woven bags have become very popular as handbags.