What to expect on a day trip to Ngare Ndare

Ngare Ndare Forest is a bit of a hidden gem. This is a community owned and run trust tucked away in the foothills of Mt Kenya that forms part of the wildlife corridor between the northern wilderness of Laikipia and Mt Kenya. Whilst this is not necessarily a safari experience you’ll likely spot bushbuck, warthogs and elephants on your day trip to Ngare Ndare as they pass through this corridor and the best place to spot them is from the forest’s suspended canopy walkway.

Your day out at Ngare Ndare

You’ll be woken early with a fresh, steaming cup of Kenyan coffee or tea delivered to your Safari Cottage and a delicious breakfast of hot food, baked goods and fresh fruit with Sonja’s famous homemade granola to get you going for the day. After a hearty breakfast you’ll head out on your adventure, looking out for wildlife on the way out of the conservancy. Your journey continues through nearby Nanyuki town and the surrounding farmland and villages, giving you an insightful glimpse into life in rural Kenya, before you arrive at Ngare Ndare in the mid-morning.

Ngare Ndare Waterfalls

You’ll be met by a local ranger and begin the 45-90 minute hike up to the falls stopping enroute to learn about the trees, flowers and footprints you’ll find along the way. This forest is also filled with incredible birdlife including Hurtlabs turaco, the Narina trogon and paradise flycatcher. You’re at altitude so remember to stop frequently to catch your breath and take a full bottle of drinking water. You’ll clamber down to the river for the final part of the hike; following the waterways to find Ngare Ndare’s crown jewel - an enchanting waterfall that descends into an azure blue swimming hole (if you’re traveling in the rainy season though be aware it may be a little browner than you might expect). It’s chilly but if you can brave the cold a refreshing dip might be just what the doctor ordered on a hot day!

Ngare Ndare Canopy Walkway

You’ll wander 30-45minutes back down the hillside to find the start of the canopy walkway. This is a 450m long bridge elegantly suspended through the trees and where you can wander at leisure looking out for big wildlife like buffalo, giraffe and elephant, birds or just enjoying the views across the forest. The walkway ends at a platform overlooking a swamp below where you may be able to spot resident bushbuck or other wildlife. Descend from the canopy to a picnic lunch with your guide, soaking in this magical, wild forest for a few final moments before your journey home.

Game driving home

The day is far from over! On your drive back you’ll pass through Nanyuki once again and then return through the conservancy gate, stopping to enjoy the wildlife on the way and watching the sun drop below the horizon and lighting up the sky overhead. You’ll arrive for a drink around the fire, unwinding after your adventures and tuck into a delicious hot dinner under the stars. What a day!

Does a day our exploring the beauty of Ngare Ndare sound like just what you need? Read more about our day trips here and book your stay.

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