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Elephants grazing along riverbank with Mount Kenya and acacia trees in scenic Ngare Nanyuki landscape
RegionNgare Nanyuki
A hidden gem on the slopes of Mount Kenya
Ngare Nanyuki, near the Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve on the foothills of Mount Kenya, is a rewarding stop for travellers, adding variety to their Kenya safari. The forest protects a vital stretch of the Serengeti ecosystem, featuring towering indigenous trees, crystal-clear rivers, and a diverse array of rich birdlife. What makes it stand out are the blue waterfalls – natural pools that travellers can hike to and swim in, a rare experience after days on game drives. Another highlight is the elevated canopy walkway, a suspended bridge running through the treetops. From here, you can spot monkeys, listen for bird calls, and see the forest from a completely different angle. For those who enjoy walking safaris, the reserve’s hiking trails wind past fig trees and open up to viewpoints overlooking Mount Kenya. The best time to visit Ngare Nanyuki is during the dry months (December to March and June to October), when trails are easier to navigate and the pools remain clear. The forest is easily added to itineraries linking Mount Kenya, Laikipia, and northern conservancies, giving safari travellers a mix of wildlife, scenery, and outdoor adventure. For anyone wanting a change of pace between game drives, Ngare Nanyuki is one of Kenya’s most underrated stops.
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Best time to go to Ngare Nanyuki
The best time to visit Ngare Nanyuki and the Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve is during the dry seasons from December to March and June to October. Trails are easier to hike, the canopy walkway is safer to access, and the famous blue waterfalls remain clear for swimming. Travelling in these months also makes it easy to connect a forest visit with nearby safari destinations, such as Mount Kenya and Laikipia. The wetter months bring lush scenery, but trails can become slippery and more challenging.
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Our Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
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Verified TravellerWe loved using the Viatu Trip Builder to design our holidays in South Africa. It was super easy and transparent. Our holidays were great and the few times we needed support, our consultant Benoit was very quick and helpful.
Anita
Verified TravellerI'm very thankful for my first Viatu experience. The 3-week trip across Namibia combined incredible landscapes and nature, mindblowing eco-friendly lodges and utter peace of mind. The organisation and support of the Viatu team were spot-on - this is the way to impress. Thanks a lot!
Christoph
Verified TravellerWe booked our honeymoon with Viatu. From the first minute on, we had good communication going with our travel agent, and she suggested a very nice itinerary right away. After some little adjustments that were easily done, we were ready to go.
Nora
Verified TravellerWhat can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.
Anna
Verified TravellerOur Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
Stefano
Verified TravellerWith super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!
Margherita
Verified TravellerWe booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!
Linda
Verified TravellerI spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
Manuel
Verified TravellerFrom the first contact to trip preparation and implementation as well as support during the trip, Viatu always acted very professionally. Our wishes and the given financial framework were taken into account. The hotels, the food, the activities - everything was excellent and highly recommended.
Nadja
Verified TravellerWe had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.
Michèle
Verified TravellerWe loved using the Viatu Trip Builder to design our holidays in South Africa. It was super easy and transparent. Our holidays were great and the few times we needed support, our consultant Benoit was very quick and helpful.
Anita
Verified TravellerI'm very thankful for my first Viatu experience. The 3-week trip across Namibia combined incredible landscapes and nature, mindblowing eco-friendly lodges and utter peace of mind. The organisation and support of the Viatu team were spot-on - this is the way to impress. Thanks a lot!
Christoph
Verified TravellerWe booked our honeymoon with Viatu. From the first minute on, we had good communication going with our travel agent, and she suggested a very nice itinerary right away. After some little adjustments that were easily done, we were ready to go.
Nora
Verified TravellerWhat can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.
Anna
Verified Traveller