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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Because of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
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Linda
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 TravellerI had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
Irina
Verified TravellerBecause of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
Nicole
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 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 TravellerWe had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified TravellerOur South Africa vacation managed by Viatu based on our request turned out perfect. All logistics and transfers worked seamlessly with local professional personnel.
Svein
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 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 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 TravellerI had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
Irina
Verified Traveller