Hidden Gems in Kenya: 5 Places to Visit in Nanyuki

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  • Kenya has often been ranked highly globally for its unique features that attract tourists from across the globe. 

    Tourism is a multi-billion industry that boosts the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and has created numerous job opportunities for Kenyans.

    Besides the sandy beaches along the coast, snowy Mt Kenya, the beautiful game drives, and the mesmerising wildebeest migrations, some counties have exceptional features.

    Looking at Nanyuki in Laikipia County, five tourist attractions stand out. Some of these sites call for a keen eye, a curious spirit, and a love for adventure.

    Inside one of the caves on the Lolldaiga hills.
    Inside one of the caves on the Lolldaiga hills.
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    Lolldaiga Hills Ranch

    Looking to get your fitness steps in? Lolldaiga hills is the place for you. The hills are decorated with cave paintings overlooking Mount Kenya and the Aberdares.

    Some of these paintings capture early mankind. It is also home to ancient burial mounds.

    The ancient land sits on 49,000 acres of land and comprises several intriguing hill folds, cedar forests, open grassland, and wooded valleys.

    Lions, buffalos, hyenas, jackals, zebra, elephants, and the endangered Grevy zebra are some of the animals you will see.

    Ngare Ndare Forest

    Magical, heavenly, and breathtaking are some of the words used to describe this lush indigenous forest at the foot of Mt. Kenya.

    From the wildlife to the cooling clear waterfall, Ngare Ndare is a beautiful place to unwind and enjoy nature.

    Exotic birds have found a home in this forest, so carry your binoculars when visiting the area. For adrenaline junkies, the swinging bridge (canopy walkway) is a good way to test your limits.

    At the forest, you need not worry about your safety, officers from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) protect the area.

    Some of the trees in the forest are over 200 years old.

    A collage visitors at the Ngare Ndare forest, one in the pool of water (left) and another on the canopy walk (right)
    A collage visitors at the Ngare Ndare forest, one in the pool of water (left) and another on the canopy walk (right)
    TripAdvisor

    Mau Mau Caves

    We all know about Mashujaa Day, marked on October 20, to celebrate the heroes that have laid the foundation to build Kenya.

    However, the Mau Mau caves provide you with a first-hand experience of the colonial hideout areas for the Mau Mau freedom fighters.

    The caves give you a feel of nature and life during the Kenya emergency period from 1952 and 1960.

    Be prepared for a walk inside the forest, and remember to pack suitable shoes. You can also set up a picnic and enjoy time with your children.

    Entrance to the Mau-Mau Cave in Nanyuki
    Entrance to the Mau-Mau Cave in Nanyuki, Laikipia county

    Trout fishing and Trout Tree Restaurant

    For fish lovers, this place allows you to fish in the nearby lakes and rivers of Mount Kenya and enjoy a fresh meal.

    The icing on the cake in this hidden gem is the location. It is balanced on the arms of a sacred fig tree surrounded by brown rivers, circular trout pools, and the rush forest.

    Away from the loud matatus and boda bodas in the city, at the trout fishing and trout tree restaurant, you will enjoy the sounds of birds, the rustling tree leaves, and the rushing waters.

    Ol Pejeta animal conservancy

    The Ol Pejeta animal conservancy has to be my best site so far. It is the only chimpanzee sanctuary in Kenya, rescuing chimps from abusive captivities across East Africa.

    If you subscribe to Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, this is the place for you. Get to know about the implied first stages of mankind.

    Ol Pejeta is located between the Aberdares and Mount Kenya in the Laikipia Plateau. It is also home to the endangered white rhinos.

    A warden and chimpanzees at the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary at the Ol Pejeta animal conservancy
    A warden and chimpanzees at the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary at the Ol Pejeta animal conservancy
    Ol Pejeta Animal Conservancy

    Aside from the five, Nanyuki is also famous for the Equator Marker. If you do not have a photo next to the equator sign, hop on that matatu and enjoy the drive to Nanyuki.

    Conclusively, Kenya is a beautiful country, brush through every corner and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

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  • Source: kENYANS.CO.KE

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