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Country Info
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Hell's Gate National Park
This is one of the Kenyan attractions whose name is linked to supernatural forces, the reason being that local tribes could not explain the steam rising out of the ground which still occurs making it a prime geothermal energy area. This combined with the steep reddish cliffs that were cleanly hewn when Lake Naivasha reached all the way here, provide for fascinating tales.
Fischer's tower
Our next day in Naivasha offers us a chance to do some rock climbing. It's not easy trying out an activity only seen on TV before, but the trained expert is so convincing that he puts me at ease quickly. Being supported by only a rope is scary at first, but no worries, the expert ensures my rock climbing experience is worth every cent.
Plus I got some extra motivation from knowing that the movie Tombraider2 was shot in this location so if Lara Croft can do it- then surely so can I!
 Fischers tower
After the rock experience we cycle among the animals on bikes hired from Crayfish Inn, disembarking for a walk close to the zebras and impalas. The grass is just beginning to sprout after recent rains, but evidence of the severity of the drought is still evident as animal skeletons lie around. Still we do get to see other animals like Thomson's gazelles, warthog, buffaloes and giraffes.
Hell's Kitchen
A few minutes later we arrive at the Ol Njorowa gorge. A guide leads us down into the gorge, along a steep path so ensure you wear proper hiking boots or rubber shoes with grip. We carefully tread on the wet sandstone that carves 90 metres down into this gorge that is also referred to as Hell's Kitchen because of the volcanic activity still evident from the presence of hot springs and streams running along its base. Clear running water that looks deceptively drinkable but is full of sulphur. Once in the gorge you will marvel at the towering rock formations and colours rising all around, hot spring water cascading down the sides. This is a good spot to take pictures. If you like souveniours pick up some Obsidian which is a striking black glassy rock formed from cooled lava and which is therefore a feature of this landscape. The walk lasts about 1 and half hours, though shorter options are also available.
Hell's Kitchen or Ol Njorowa Gorge
This park is now the favoured destination for Kenya Wildlife Service's exciting wheelbarrow race. Keep it here for dates of the next one!
- Hell's Gate National Park is an ideal one day family getaway
- It is one of the most affordable parks
- It's also an eagle and vulture breeding ground
- Though walking and cycling are allowed, do not provoke the animals.
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Nightlife
Crayfish camp has its own discotheque known as the Greenhouse Discotheque. So you don't have to drive into town at night which is about half an hour away. Tonight it is vibrant, so I get to dance the night away and of course, make some new friends.
Lots of leisure, a bit of history thrown in, and of course new experiences and people- that's what travel should be about. So even if you stay in one place, find out what activities are offered and try them out. After all, variety certainly keeps life- and holidaying- spicy.
Park entrance and activity fees
Great Rift Valley Lakes:-
Back: Lake Naivasha
Related link: Adventure travel
Other 'supernatural' attractions: Tsavo West national park
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