Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park is a relatively small (20 sq km or 7.7 sq miles) but distinct protected area in Kenya, located about 65-85 km (40-53 miles) northeast of Nairobi. It’s unique for being centered around a densely forested mountain, Ol Donyo Sabuk (meaning “Big Mountain” in Maasai, and known as “Mountain of the Buffalo” in Kikuyu, or Mount Kilimambogo).
It’s a popular destination for a day trip from Nairobi, offering a mix of hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic beauty.
Key Features and Attractions:
- Ol Donyo Sabuk Mountain: The dominant feature of the park, rising to an altitude of 2,145 meters (7,037 feet). A single, all-weather murram road leads to the summit, requiring a 4×4 vehicle. The ascent is popular for hiking and mountain biking.
- Panoramic Views: From the summit, on clear days, you can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding Athi Plains, the pineapple plantations of Thika, and even the distant, snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya and Mount Kilimanjaro.
- McMillan’s Grave: At the summit, you’ll find the gravesite of Lord William Northrop McMillan, an early American settler, his wife, and their dog. This historical site adds a unique cultural element to the park.
- Fourteen Falls: While not strictly within the park’s boundaries, the nearby Fourteen Falls on the Athi River is a popular associated attraction often visited before or after Ol Donyo Sabuk.
- Montane Forest: The mountain is largely covered in dense montane forest, which provides a cool and refreshing environment, especially for hiking. It also harbors unique Afro-alpine flora typically found at higher altitudes on mountains like Mt. Kenya.
Wildlife:
While not a “big game” safari destination like the Mara or Amboseli, Ol Donyo Sabuk is surprisingly rich in certain species:
- Buffalo: As its Kikuyu name suggests, buffalo are the dominant and most commonly sighted large mammals, often seen in large herds roaming the mountain slopes.
- Primates: The forest is home to various monkey species, including olive baboons, colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, and Sykes’ monkeys. Bushbabies are also present.
- Other Mammals: You might spot bushbucks, Kirk’s dik-diks, common duikers, reedbucks, bush pigs, mongooses, porcupines, aardvarks, rock hyraxes, and various squirrels.
- Predators: Leopards are present but are very shy and rarely seen. Hyenas also exist.
- Reptiles: Pythons and monitor lizards can be found.
- Birdlife: The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 45 recorded bird species. You can expect to see forest birds as well as some open savannah and wetland species. Common sightings include African hawk-eagle, sunbirds, various weavers, mourning doves, African pied wagtails, and Augur buzzards.
Activities:
- Hiking/Mountain Climbing: This is the most popular activity. The 10km (6.2 miles) trek to the summit along the main road is achievable for most people in 2-3 hours, depending on fitness.
- Game Drives: While the road to the summit offers game viewing opportunities, a 4×4 vehicle is essential, especially during the wet season. You’ll primarily see buffalo and various antelope.
- Bird Watching: Excellent opportunities for bird enthusiasts, particularly while hiking.
- Picnicking: Designated picnic sites are available.
- Camping: The park has designated campsites for those who wish to spend a night under the stars.
- Nature Walks: Guided walks can be arranged for a closer look at the flora and smaller creatures (often accompanied by a ranger due to the presence of buffalo and leopards).
Best Time to Visit:
- Dry Season (January to March, July to October): Generally considered the best time for hiking and game viewing as the trails are drier and vegetation is less dense.
- Wet Season (April to June, November to December): The park becomes lush and green, offering beautiful scenery and excellent birdwatching opportunities. However, trails can be muddy and challenging for vehicles.
Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park offers a refreshing escape from the city, providing a unique blend of natural beauty, moderate adventure, and wildlife viewing, making it a rewarding addition to a Kenyan itinerary, particularly for those based in or around Nairobi.