Nanyuki

Written by Andreas Keller, Harry Mboya
10/08/2025
Impala gazing calmly at camera amidst lush greenery in Nanyuki, Kenya.
Ken Mwaura, Pexels

Nanyuki, a cosmopolitan town at the foothills of Mount Kenya, serves as a prime gateway for exploring Africa's second-highest peak and various renowned wildlife conservancies. This destination offers a blend of thrilling outdoor activities and profound wildlife encounters.

While not featuring specific backpacker districts, Nanyuki provides opportunities to socialise within its array of restaurants, upscale lodges, and local establishments like the Moran Lounge in the town center. The Trout Tree Restaurant offers a relaxing setting.

Top 5 Things to do in Nanyuki

Nanyuki's activities range from immersive wildlife encounters and challenging mountain treks to serene forest walks and family-friendly leisure.

1. Ol Pejeta Conservancy Safari

Engage in an enriching wildlife experience at Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a leading sanctuary for endangered species. Here, one can witness the Big Five, including the critically endangered black rhinos, and visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, which provides refuge for rescued chimpanzees. Game drives offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, and various conservation activities allow for deeper engagement with the conservancy's vital work.

Cost: Non-resident adult entry fee is USD 110. Vehicle entry costs KES 1,000 for vehicles up to 6 seats. Specialized conservation activities, such as lion tracking or guided bush walks, are available for an additional USD 40 per person per day. Tour operators often offer day trip packages starting from approximately USD 300-400, which typically cover conservancy fees and transport.

Transport: Ol Pejeta Conservancy's main gate is approximately 14 kilometers from the equator turn-off near Nanyuki. Taxis from Nanyuki town are available, or visitors can hire a vehicle with a driver. An 8-hour vehicle hire with a driver might cost around KES 35,000. For self-drive, a 4x4 vehicle is recommended.

2. Mount Kenya Trekking (to Point Lenana)

Embark on a multi-day trek up Mount Kenya, Africa's second-highest peak. The Sirimon route, often starting from Nanyuki, is particularly scenic, leading through diverse landscapes from montane forest and bamboo zones to high-altitude moorland and glaciated peaks. Reaching Point Lenana offers breathtaking views and a profound sense of achievement. Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience by sharing insights into the mountain's unique flora and fauna.

Cost: A standard guided trek to Point Lenana typically ranges from USD 600 to USD 1,200 per person for a 5 to 7-day trip. More comprehensive packages can go up to USD 2,000 or more. These costs generally include park fees, guide and porter services, meals, and accommodation in camps or huts.

Transport: Mount Kenya is about 200km north of Nairobi, with Nanyuki serving as a key access town for the Sirimon route, located approximately 15 km east of Nanyuki. Tour packages usually include transfers from Nairobi or Nanyuki to the trailhead.

3. Ngare Ndare Forest Canopy Walk & Blue Pools

Explore the Ngare Ndare Forest, an indigenous forest notable for its elevated canopy walkway and stunning turquoise pools fed by waterfalls. The 450-meter long, 40-foot high canopy walk provides a unique perspective of the forest canopy, while guided hikes lead to the refreshing blue pools where one can swim. The forest is also a vital elephant corridor, offering a chance to spot wildlife.

Cost: Entry for non-resident adults is KES 4,000. A guide/ranger fee of KES 1,000 per group and a car entry fee of KES 500 per group apply. Group day trips, which may include transport, entry, and lunch, can cost around KES 3,300. Booking your visit at least two days in advance is required.

Transport: Ngare Ndare Forest is approximately 40 kilometers (1 to 1.5 hours drive) from Nanyuki, located past Timau. A 4WD vehicle is recommended due to the unpaved section of road, especially during wet seasons. Taxis or pre-arranged tour transport are common ways to reach the forest.

4. Visit the Equator Marker

Stand at the Equator Marker in Nanyuki, a geographical point where one can symbolically be in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres simultaneously. This provides a fun and unique photo opportunity, marking a memorable moment of your journey.

Cost: Visiting the Equator Marker is free of charge.

Transport: The Equator Marker is conveniently located near Nanyuki town. It is easily accessible by a short taxi ride from the town center, or as a brief stop when traveling to or from other attractions.

5. Explore Mau Mau Caves

Discover the historical significance of the Mau Mau Caves, a site on the slopes of Mount Kenya where Kenyan freedom fighters sought refuge during the struggle for independence. A trek is required to reach the caves, offering both a cultural lesson and an active outdoor experience.

Cost: Specific self-serve entry fees are not widely published. Tours that include transport, park entry, and a guide for the trek are available.

Transport: The starting point for the trek to Mau Mau Caves is about a 20-minute drive from Nanyuki. The trek itself takes approximately 4 hours round trip from the main road. A taxi or a guided tour is recommended for transport.

Check out our other pages on Nanyuki

Getting There icon Getting There Restaurants icon Restaurants Bars and Entertainment icon Bars and Entertainment Hotels icon Hotels Budget Stays icon Budget Stays

Discover destinations in Kenya

Coastal Region
Inland & Rift Valley Region