Nanyuki is an excellent city that lies on the equator. It’s positioned on the sting of central highlands and opens to the Laikipia Plateau and the wonders of northern Kenya.
On this information, you’ll uncover the assorted issues to do and locations to go to in Nanyuki, Kenya. It incorporates detailed data and insider ideas that will help you plan your journey to this mysterious city.
As somebody who has lived in Nanyuki city for nearly a 12 months, I do know it’s rather more than only a pit cease whereas heading north from Nairobi. It’s dwelling to totally different cultures, conservancies, a base for Mount Kenya climbers, an airfield for the Kenya Air Pressure, and a base for the British Military.
So, whether or not you’re in search of wildlife points of interest, journey, historic experiences, or leisure, this city in Kenya has one thing for you.
Finest Locations to Go to in Nanyuki (+Issues To Do)
Nanyuki is a superb city and is likely one of the greatest locations to go to in Kenya. It’s the gateway to unexplored northern Kenya, Mount Kenya Nationwide Park, and wildlife conservancies within the Laikipia Plateau.
In case you’re on the lookout for enjoyable locations and one of the best issues to do in Nanyuki, stroll with me. I’ll share the enjoyable locations and points of interest I’ve found since transferring right here a 12 months in the past.
1. Cease on the Equator Marker
Though I cross the road nearly on daily basis, I all the time admire the sight of the Equator Marker. The spot is positioned alongside highway A2 when approaching Nanyuki city from the south. It’s very talked-about with vacationers as one of many prime Nanyuki vacationer points of interest.
Apart from shopping at the equator market, essentially the most attention-grabbing factor is watching locals reveal the Coriolis force.
I don’t know if the experiment works, however watching the easy setup and listening to their explanations is an excellent expertise.
2. Expertise the Nanyuki Nightlife
Though there are a lot of issues to do in Nanyuki, a fantasy surrounding a misplaced railway route map has made the city extra common as an leisure hotspot.
The tale tells of how railway engineers obtained carried away by the enjoyable and merry in Nanyuki. They misplaced the route map which marked the tip of the Nairobi-Nanyuki railway and was supposed to increase to northern Kenya.
In case you’re all for a style of Nanyuki’s nightlife, go to the Downtown Club or Moran Lounge. In spite of everything, no journey to this city is full with out partying.
3. Discover Nanyuki City on Foot
Nanyuki town is inhabited by people from different cultures, together with native communities, ex-pats, descendants of early British settlers, and army personnel.
Strolling alongside the streets of this small city presents you a chance to expertise this numerous attribute and find out about its historical past.
A few of the greatest websites and locations to go to are local markets, previous buildings, and group facilities just like the Nanyuki Spinners and Weavers.
The latter is a mission began in 1977 to help deprived native ladies to turn into self-reliant. It presents spinning, knitting, and weaving coaching utilizing wool and cotton. The ladies produce stunning merchandise like scarves, carpets, shawls, and baggage.
Be sure to cease by to see how this previous commerce remains to be in use. It’s also possible to study to make your personal scarf and end your wandering with a pleasant cup of espresso at Java House in Cedar Mall.
4. Go Buying on the Equator Market
The equator market is likely one of the greatest locations to go reward procuring in Nanyuki. This small curios market is positioned on the primary highway subsequent to the Equator Marker and sells stunning souvenirs and cultural objects.
You’ll be able to stroll into any of the stalls and haggle your manner for materials, keepsakes, African work, and safari hats. It’s also possible to get a wristband or a t-shirt to point out off if you get dwelling, confirming that you simply crossed the equator at Nanyuki.
Whereas nonetheless there, ask your information or locals to point out you the place the well-known Silverbeck Hotel was positioned. The resort was designed and in-built such a manner that the equator ran proper via the bar. Guests might take pleasure in their drinks whereas switching between the northern and southern hemispheres.
The Silverbeck Lodge is not there. So, should you’re on the lookout for a resort near the equator line, check out The Warwick Hotel.
☞ SEE ALSO: 25 Thrilling Issues To Do in Nairobi, Kenya
5. Discover the Mau Mau Caves
The Mau Mau Caves are positioned close to Nanyuki city on the foot of Mount Kenya. These epic caves was a hideout for the Mau Mau freedom fighters in the course of the Kenya emergency interval from 1952 to 1960.
The caves supply a fantastic alternative to discover nature and are positioned inside an indigenous forest that opens as much as a good looking waterfall.
In case you’re on the lookout for a brief journey or journey, go chasing the Mau Mau Caves. The highway to the caves additionally passes via a number of villages; offering one other probability to expertise rural Kenya.
6. Day Journey to the Magical Ngare Ndare Forest
In case you’re on the lookout for low cost issues to do in Nanyuki, head to the magical Ngare Ndare Forest. Situated in Timau, it’s the most effective locations to hike in Kenya.
I’ve visited Ngare Ndare a number of instances and might’t get sufficient of this pure jewel. The luxurious indigenous forest consists of a cover stroll, a climbing path, and pure blue swimming pools the place you possibly can swim, birdwatch, and think about the great wildlife.
For the reason that forest is positioned in a distant place, a solo journey could be complicated and expensive. I’d due to this fact suggest becoming a member of this affordable experience with an area information.
It’s also possible to keep on the rustic Seiku Glamping on Airbnb, which arranges journeys to the Ngare Ndare at discounted charges.
7. Eat Fish on the Trout Tree Restaurant
On the way in which to Nanyuki, it’s price stopping by the Trout Tree Restaurant. Though positioned just a few kilometers south, it qualifies as the most effective eating places in Nanyuki.
The restaurant is constructed round an enormous sacred fig tree on the banks of the Burguret river. It’s well-known amongst vacationers for its scrumptious recent trout and pure setting. Apart from the vegetarian dishes, in addition they serve beef, pizzas (on weekends solely), and cocktails.
Trout Tree Restaurant prides itself as a farm-to-table restaurant. And it’s simply that. Their trout is taken straight from the pond and greens are sourced straight from the backyard.
The trout takes time to arrange. So whereas ready on your scrumptious meal, you possibly can chill out, watch birds and Colobus monkeys, or chat with your folks over a beer.
For about $10 you possibly can have trout served with Ugali (just like porridge however rather more dense), and inexperienced greens – my favourite.
8. Go to the Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Situated within the Laikipia Plateau between the Aberdares and Mount Kenya, Ol Pejeta Conservancy is likely one of the greatest locations to go to in Kenya. The 360 km² non-public sport reserve is dedicated to defending wild animals, and is dwelling to the endangered white rhinos.
This hidden gem is one in all my favourite points of interest in Nanyuki. It’s much less crowded, and you’ll view extra rhinos right here than wherever else in Kenya.
Apart from nature walks and sport drives, guests can take pleasure in horse driving or go to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary. Try this tour of the Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
9. Climb Mount Kenya
Climbing Mount Kenya needs to be the most effective actions in Nanyuki. The mountain is accessible from Nanyuki by way of Burguret or Sirimon gates. Vacationers desire the latter, because it’s thought-about the best and most scenic route.
The easiest way to achieve Point Lenana (a well-liked summit with guests) is to join a 4 Days Mount Kenya climbing tour. The expedition departs from Nanyuki and takes you thru an impressive montane forest, rivers, and alpine vegetation.
For starters, Mount Kenya is the very best mountain in Kenya, and Africa’s second highest after Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. The mountain has three essential peaks: Batian (5,199 m), Nelion (5,188 m), and Lenana (4,985 m).
Of the three peaks, level Lenana is the most well-liked. Nonetheless, should you’re a extra superior and skilled climber, you might desire trying the extra technical peak Batian.
10. Keep in a Rustic Hut with a View of Mount Kenya
Oak Hut at One Stop Nanyuki is likely one of the greatest locations to remain in Nanyuki. It’s additionally an ideal base for exploring Nanyuki and close by locations. An evening at this cozy spot means that you can hook up with nature and actually chill out.
You’ll be able to go to the Mau Mau Caves, climb Mount Kenya, see the Equator Marker or take a scenic helicopter flight to Mount Kenya.
They’ve 4 huts: Oak, Bramble, Holly, and Ivy, and a home named The 100-Year-Old House. Every facility is absolutely geared up, distinctive, and has very good views of Mount Kenya.
Apart from lodging in Nanyuki, One Cease has different services, together with a espresso bar, a farm store, and a swimming pool.
One Stop Nanyuki is positioned alongside highway A2 proper reverse the Nanyuki Airstrip and Barneys’s Restaurant.
Different Locations To Go to in Nanyuki
In case you enterprise a bit of farther exterior of the town you’ll discover much more enjoyable locations to go to, which embrace the next:
Chaka Ranch
Situated near Chaka city, Chaka Ranch leisure park is good for household enjoyable actions resembling biking, karting, quad bike driving, and paintballing. Additionally they serve scrumptious native meals and drinks.
Ol Jogi Conservancy
One other good spot to go to in Nanyuki is the huge (58,000 acres) Ol Jogi Wildlife Conservancy. Situated alongside the Doldol highway, the conservancy is dwelling to elephants, giraffes, rhinos, and the endangered Grevy’s zebra.
Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy
This non-profit group works to guard endangered wildlife species and the setting. The conservancy is legendary for breeding the practically extinct mountain bongo to re-introduce them to the wild.
Mount Kenya Climbing Health club
This is a superb place for adventurer seekers and other people making ready to climb Mount Kenya. It’s a couple of minutes from the Equator Marker and hosts a stunning cafe – Slightly South Cafe.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Nanyuki
That will help you get began, I’ve created three final itineraries for Nanyuki. This fashion, you possibly can discover the highlights in a day, a weekend, or perhaps a week.
Whether or not you need to social gathering, climb Mount Kenya, go to wildlife conservancies, or go for a hike, these fast Itineraries will assist you plan an ideal journey.
1 Day in Nanyuki Itinerary
When you have a day in Nanyuki, get up early to view Mount Kenya. Take breakfast on the Dorman’s Coffee Shop after which head over to city for a day tour. Go to the Equator Marker and railway station, and stroll alongside the streets.
When you’re performed exploring the city, take a taxi to Trout Tree Restaurant for lunch. End the day with a nightlife expertise at Moran Lounge, or Downtown Club.
2-3 Days in Nanyuki Itinerary
Three days is sufficient time to get a great style of this equator city. Spend the primary day exploring the city and visiting the Equator Marker and market.
On the second day, go on a wildlife tour on the Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Begin the third day by climbing to the Mau Mau Caves, and afterwards, go for lunch at Trout Tree Restaurant. When you have the vitality, end your journey completely by partying on the Downtown Club.
1 Week in Nanyuki Itinerary
Every week in Nanyuki presents you with a number of choices for an epic journey. In case you’re into out of doors adventures, go on a 4 Day climb to point Lenana on Mount Kenya. Use the previous couple of days exploring the city and procuring on the equator market.
Alternatively, you may make a number of quick journeys for a full-circle expertise. Spend the primary day visiting the Ol Pejeta Conservancy after which expertise camping at Mianzi. Take a full-day trip to Mount Kenya National Park, exploring Mau Mau Caves and waterfalls.
From there, spend two nights evening at Sieku Glamping, from the place you go to the Ngare Ndare Forest.
Earlier than you permit, go to the Trout Tree Restaurant and store on the equator market. Additionally, don’t miss a go to to Nanyuki Spinners and Weavers.
The place to Keep in Nanyuki
Nanyuki is a number one vacation vacation spot in Kenya; dwelling to many tenting websites, lodges, cottages, and villas.
There are a number of hotels in Nanyuki town, however one of the best locations to remain are exterior of city. These locations are quiet, near nature and supply nice views of gorgeous landscapes.
In case you’re on the lookout for locations to remain in Nanyuki which can be distinctive and inexpensive, beneath are just a few concepts.
Oak-Shepherd’s Hut
Situated proper throughout the highway from the Nanyuki Airstrip, that is one of the best Airbnbs in Nanyuki. The huts (they’ve 4 in whole) are comfy, rustic, and comfy. They’ll accommodate 3 company every and begin at $100.
The Barn
In case you’re on the lookout for a base to discover Nanyuki vacationer points of interest, stay at the Barn. At $93 an evening, your complete dwelling can accommodate 5 company, making it splendid for teams or households.
What I like about The Barn is the environment. You don’t have to climb Mount Kenya or chase Mau Mau Caves to expertise pure magnificence. You’ll be able to chill out with a e-book, hearken to the birds sing, or sip espresso whereas viewing Mount Kenya.
Maiyan Resort and Villas
Maiyan is one of the best resort in Nanyuki. It’s positioned about 5 kilometers from city and contains non-public villas appropriate for each households and teams.
Apart from lodging, they’ve stunning grounds for team-building occasions and social occasions. Horse driving can be common at Maiyan.
Sieku Glamping
In case you like experiencing true glamping near nature, keep at Sieku Glamping. You’ll be able to keep late watching taking pictures stars and get up to views of Mount Kenya and Borana Conservancy.
Sieku Glamping is appropriate for {couples} and solo vacationers who love places off-the-beaten-track.
Guests on the luxurious glamping web site can sleep in bell tents or tipis. The positioning can be self-catering, however there may be the choice to request a employed chef.
Caritas Villa & Cottages
Most villas, campsites, and cottages in Nanyuki don’t come low cost. Nonetheless, staying at Caritas will prevent cash on lodging that you would be able to then spend on actions. In case you’re planning to climb Mount Kenya and discover close by points of interest, make this charming and inexpensive villa your base.
Finest Eating places in Nanyuki
Don’t miss these nice locations to eat in Nanyuki.
Barneys Bar & Restaurant
Barneys combines a wealthy historical past with good service and scrumptious meals at average costs. The restaurant is family-friendly, and serves totally different dishes from beef burgers to lamb shawarma.
I like Barney’s due to its accessible location (at the Nanyuki Airstrip), relaxed environment, and nice espresso. Their snacks are additionally all the time recent and properly baked.
Go to Barneys for one of the best meals and drinks and the sight of small planes taking off from the runway. The restaurant is open each day between 7:00 am and 6:00 pm.
Java Home, Cedar Mall
With numerous menus, good service, and pleasant employees, Java House is likely one of the greatest eating places in Nanyuki – it’s my favourite. This comparatively inexpensive eatery is positioned in Cedar Mall alongside Rumuruti highway.
Though Java is common with espresso, the restaurant additionally serves good meals and recent juices. You’ll be able to anticipate to spend round $10 on a beef burger, $3 on espresso, and $4 on desserts.
I notably love their “Bacon, Lettuce & Tomato” sandwich and traditional lemonade. The out of doors seating area additionally presents a great view of occasions alongside the Nanyuki-Rumururi highway.
The Nook Cafe and Bar
In contrast to different locations, The Nook is just not your common restaurant. What I like about this place is their sporadic nature. Each week they’ve a very new menu impressed by cuisines from all around the world.
Apart from the restaurant, the Nook has a bar the place vacationers can join over a chilly beer. The cafe is open on daily basis from Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays). Dishes begin at $12, and drinks at $3.
The Nook is positioned about 90 m from the primary highway, alongside Haile Selassie Street.
Kongoni Camp Restaurant
Apart from providing cozy and inexpensive lodging, Kongoni Camp is a haven for positive eating. Their restaurant’s menu has numerous dishes, together with the standard suspects – steak, fish with Ugali, burgers, and pizza.
The restaurant and low store are open between 7:00 am and 10:30 pm. What’s nice is that you simply don’t should spend an evening there to take pleasure in their scrumptious meals and drinks.
Issues To Do in Nanyuki: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Nanyuki.
Nanyuki is legendary for its leisure hotspots, giant farms, wildlife conservancies, the equator line, and as a base for climbing Mount Kenya.
Nanyuki enjoys a great local weather, making it one one of the best locations to go to in Kenya year-round. Nonetheless, one of the best time to go to Nanyuki is in the course of the dry season – June via September.
You received’t discover well-known points of interest right here like Masai Mara, however what Nanyuki does showcase is world-class wildlife conservancies and a few wonderful nightlife. So sure, it’s price visiting Nanyuki.
The highest points of interest and greatest locations to go to in Nanyuki are the Equator Marker, Ngare Ndare Forest, Ol Jogi Conservancy, and Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
Mount Kenya Nationwide Park is positioned within the central area and could be accessed from Nanyuki, Narumoru, Chogoria, and Timau.
Nanyuki is well accessible from Nairobi by way of highway A2. It will possibly additionally reached by practice or by flying into Nanyuki Airstrip.
Some hidden gems in Nanyuki embrace the Mau Mau Caves and the Trout Tree Restaurant.
In Conclusion
Whereas many guests skip out on Nanyuki in favor of huge cities, seaside cities, and nationwide parks, hopefully, you possibly can see that the city is unquestionably price visiting by now.
Curve out just a few days throughout your journey to Kenya and go to this stunning city for a memorable expertise. Simply be sure to not overindulge in enjoyable actions and lose your map – there are nonetheless loads of different nice locations to go to in Kenya.
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