There are many places to visit and things to do in Nanyuki. The town is located in central Kenya and lies at the equator. It’s a stopover while heading north from Nairobi, and hosts many wildlife conservancies. It’s also home to different cultures, and a base for Mount Kenya climbers and the British Army.
Best Things to Do in Nanyuki
Nanyuki is a wonderful town that offers everyone some places to visit here in Kenya. It’s the gateway to Mount Kenya and other wonderful attractions. Whether you seek historical experiences, entertainment, or adventure, Nanyuki has something for you.
Here are some of the top 10 best things to do in Nanyuki.
1. Climb Mount Kenya
Climbing Mount Kenya is one of the best things to do in Nanyuki.
You can access the mountain from Nanyuki via Burguret, Naro Moru, or Sirimon gates. Mount Kenya is Kenya’s highest mountain and the second highest in Africa.
The mountain has three main peaks: Batian, Nelion, and Lenana, which are the most popular.
2. Visit the Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Ol Pejeta conservancy is a place worth visiting. This private game reserve is devoted to protecting wild animals and hosts endangered white rhinos. The site is less crowded, and you can view more rhinos than anywhere else in Kenya.
Besides game drives and nature walks, visitors also enjoy horse riding and visiting the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary.
3. Experience the Nightlife in Nanyuki
With so many things to do in Nanyuki, a myth surrounding the lost railway route map has made the town more popular as an entertainment hotspot.
The tale explains how the railway engineers got carried away by the fun and lost the route map. The loss of the map marked the end of the Nairobi-Nanyuki railway, intended to extend to northern Kenya.
If you are interested in Nanyuki’s nightlife, head over to Downtown, Pryme, or Moran Lounge.
4. Stop at the Equator Marker
Although I pass by the approaching line almost every day, the sight of the Equator Marker is so admiring. The spot is along road A2, approaching the town from the south. The Equator Marker is one of the top Nanyuki tourist attractions and is more popular with travelers. One can also shop at the equator market.
5. Visit Mount Kenya Climbing Gym
To all hikers and adventurers, here is a place for you. The climbing gym, a few minutes from the Equator Marker, offers you a place to prepare to climb Mount Kenya. It is the best place to do your preparations and is very popular for its affordable charges.
6. Make a Visit to the Ngare Ndare Forest
The magical Ngare Ndare Forest is in Timau. One can’t get enough of this natural jewel; it is a beautiful place to hike here in Nanyuki.
This indigenous forest has a hiking trail and a canopy walk. One can also birdwatch and view wildlife. In addition, the forest hosts waterfalls and natural blue pools where you can enjoy swimming.
👉 Check Also: Top 10 National Parks in Kenya
7. Visit the Nanyuki Sports ClubÂ
The Nanyuki Sports Club is the best place to be after your hiking for relaxation and to perfect your game for golf lovers. They also offer starters classes at affordable prices and other games like squash, snooker, and tennis.
This place also provides a kids’ playground where children can enjoy various playing facilities.
8. Enjoy Fish at the Trout Tree Restaurant
The Trout Tree Restaurant is located a few kilometers south and qualifies as one of the best restaurants in Nanyuki. The restaurant is set along the Burguret River on a huge sacred fig tree.
The restaurant is famous for serving this fresh trout dish and its natural setting. You can’t get enough of this.
9. Explore Nanyuki Town on foot.
Nanyuki town hosts people from different cultures, including ex-pats, descendants of the early British settlers, the local community, and military personnel.
Walking along the streets allows you to experience this diverse characteristic and learn its history. You can also visit the local markets and the Nanyuki Weavers and Spinners.
10. Explore Mau Mau Caves
The Mau Mau caves used to be hiding out for the Mau Mau freedom fighters during the Kenya emergency period. The Mau Mau Caves are situated at the foot of Mount Kenya. The caves are in an indigenous forest that opens to a beautiful waterfall. The route to the caves passes through many villages, thus giving you a chance to experience rural Kenya.
Where To stay in Nanyuki (Hotels, Resorts, and Airbnbs)
Here are some of the best hotels in Nanyuki town.
Falcon Heights Hotel
Nanyuki Falcon Heights Hotel is 42 km from Solio Game Reserve and offers accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and free parking. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, free wifi, airport transfers, and a kids’ club.
Penguin House
Penguin House Hotel is set 2 miles away from Nanyuki town center. It offers 3-star accommodation. Rooms here feature an iron and ironing board, a TV with satellite channels, and private bathrooms with a bath and sink. Free wireless internet is available.
Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club
Nestled at the foot of Mount Kenya, Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club offers luxury accommodation. The rooms, cottages, and suites here are complete with modern-day amenities. Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club offers a unique blend of comfort and relaxation. It is the best place for your stay here in Nanyuki.
Peaks Hotel
Peaks Hotel is set 3.5 km from Nanyuki town. This Hotel offers accommodation at affordable charges, free parking, a shared lounge, and a terrace.
All guest rooms have a desk, air conditioning, a kettle, a bidet, free toiletries, and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. The property also has a restaurant and a bar and offers free wifi.
Best Things to Do in Nanyuki: FAQsÂ
Below are the most frequently asked questions about places to visit and things to do in Nanyuki, Kenya.
What time is best to visit Nanyuki?
Nanyuki town experiences perfect weather throughout the year. Therefore, you can visit Nanyuki any time of the year.
Are there hidden gems in Nanyuki?
Nanyuki’s hidden gems are the Trout Tree Restaurant, Ngare Ndare Forest, and the Mau Mau caves.
How to get to Nanyuki from Nairobi?
The town is accessible by train or flight to Nanyuki Airstrip and road A2 from Nairobi.
In Conclusion
It is now clear that Nanyuki’s beauty has something for everyone. Make sure you have a few days to come and explore this wonderful town for a memorable experience.
Featured Photo by David Cashbaugh on Unsplash
