Ngare Ndare Forest

The forest's waterfalls during rainy season - still magical and beautiful

Looking for a hidden gem in Kenya that combines adventure, tranquility, and stunning natural beauty? If you enjoy hiking and don't mind getting your shoes a little dusty, Ngare Ndare Forest might just steal your heart - and quiet your mind.

Quick Info: Ngare Ndare Forest

• 📍Location: Northern foothills of Mt. Kenya (1hr drive from Nanyuki)

• 🕒 Hike Duration: ~ 2.5 hours round-trip

• 🥾 Difficulty: Easy (some steep parts near the river)

• 🗓️ Best time to visit: Dry season (Jan - Feb & July - Sept); however: it is also worth visiting during off-season.

• 🎟️ Entry Fee: 4'000 Ksh per person (tourist rate) (+ 1'000 - 2'000 Ksh for the guide)

• 🐘 Wildlife: Monkeys, birds, butterflies, buffalo, bushbuck, elephants (if lucky)

• 🌉 Highlights: Waterfalls, Natural pools, 30ft-high canopy walk, ancient indigenous forest that soothes the soul

• 👟 What to bring: Hiking shoes, water, snacks, swimsuit (optional), sunhat

• 📞 Booking Required:

  Email: bookings@ngarendare.org

  Phone: +254 70 041 25 32

  
  

Tucked at the northern foothills of Mt. Kenya, the Ngare Ndare Forest is a place that surprised me deeply. It's one of those rare spots that combines wild beatuy, serenity, and just the right dose of adventure - and somehow remains under the radar for many travelers.

If you're looking to disconnect from city noise and immerse yourself in nature, this is a place worth carving out time for.

Into the Forest: What to Expect

Ngare Ndare is a lush, indigenous forest - rich in old trees, birdsong, and winding paths. A guided hike (about 2.5 hours round trip) takes you through this green paradise to a beautiful riverbed where waterfalls tumble into cool, clear (or sometimes wild and brownish!) pools. If you like to swim, you can even take a dip.

We were joined by a ranger, who led us not just with confidence but also with stories. He pointed out trees, birds, animal tracks, and told us about the ecosystem and history of the place. The forest felt alive - not only in the literal sense, but in the quiet wisdom it holds.

The Hike

The walk from the parking lot to the river takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The path is well-maintained and generally gentle - though the final descent into the riverbed is a little steeper. It's not a strenuous hike by most standards, but I always say: "easy" is subjective. If you're steady on your feet and have decent shoes, you'll be fine.

If you're visiting during or shortly after the rainy season, be prepared for some slippery patches. Also, keep in mind the waterfalls and pools may not be the classic turquoise you see in dry-season photos - they can turn brown from stirred-up sediment. But honestly? It's still stunning, and there's something wild and magical about seeing the forest in full flow.

Wildlife Spotting

This forest is alive with wildlife - although they do an excellent job of hiding in the thick foliage. You're very likely to see monkeys and birds, and if you're lucky, you might spot gazelles, bushbucks, buffalo, or even elephants. Leopards also pass through, but sightings are rare (and don't worry - you're never alone; your ranger knows how to keep everyone safe).

The Canopy Walk

If you're craving a little adrenaline, don't miss the tree canopy walk. This 500-meter-long hanging bridge is suspended 30 feet above the forest floor. It sways gently as you walk, giving you a slightly thrilling, elevated perspective on the forest below.

From up there, the views are breathtaking - a sea of green treetops, sunlight filtering through the canopy, birds flying beneath your feet. It's a different world entirely, and definitely a highlight of the experience.

How to get there & practical info

If you're coming from Nanyuki, the drive takes about 1 hour. Shortly after passing Timau town, keep an eye out for the signpost and turn left onto a dirt road - from there, it's 11 km to the Ngare Ndare Forest gate.

Important: Stop at the gate first. That's where you'll pay the entrance fee (Ksh 4'000 for tourists), get a short briefing, and instructions for the final drive to the parking lot. From the gate, it's about 2 km straight to a large rock with a sign. Turn right there and drive another 0.5 - 1 km.

This final stretch can get tricky in wet conditions - 4WD is highly recommended. But once you reach the parking area, you'll find washrooms, helpful staff, and your assigned ranger waiting to guide you into the forest.

Important Tips

• Book in advance so they can assign a ranger to you:

  📧 bookings@ngarendare.org

  📞 +254 700 412 532

• Wear sturdy hiking shoes, especially if you're visiting in the rainy season.

• Bring swimwear if you're thinking of jumping into the pools - and a towel if you want to dry off afterwards.

• Carry water and a snack, although the hike isn't overly long, and you'll want to stay hydrated.

• Find more useful information and interesting facts to learn in advance: https://ngarendare.org/exploring-ngare-ndare-your-journey-your-adventure/

Final Thoughts

Ngare Ndare Forest is not just a destination - it's a reset. It gives you that rare mix of quietness and curiosity, stillness and stimulation. Whether you're admiring butterflies, walking high above the treetops, or letting the forest air fill your lungs, there's something deeply grounding about being there.

So, if you're spending time around Mt. Kenya or in the Nanyuki region - don't miss this hidden gem. It's the kind of place you'll leave feeling lighter, fuller, and maybe just a little more in tune with the wild.