Ngare Ndare Forest | Nanyuki

Ngare Ndare Forest is a stunning and pristine tropical rainforest located in the foothills of Mount Kenya in central Kenya. Situated in Laikipia County, the forest covers approximately 5,500 acres and is part of the larger Mount Kenya Forest Reserve. It is renowned for its rich biodiversity, scenic beauty, and the variety of activities it offers to nature enthusiasts and eco-tourists.

Key Features and Attractions

Unique Flora and Fauna

Ngare Ndare Forest is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, making it an important biodiversity hotspot. The forest’s lush vegetation consists of indigenous trees such as podocarpus, cedar, fig trees, and a variety of mosses and ferns.

Wildlife: The forest supports various wildlife species, including elephants, leopards, giraffes, bushbucks, monkeys, and a variety of bird species such as African eagles, hornbills, and sunbirds. It is also a vital migration route for wildlife between the Laikipia Plateau and Mount Kenya.

Endangered Species: Ngare Ndare is important for the conservation of several endangered species, including the bongo (a forest antelope) and the Mount Kenya bush viper.

Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve

The forest is a designated reserve, which helps protect its biodiversity while providing opportunities for sustainable eco-tourism and conservation efforts. Local communities around the forest are involved in conservation initiatives, and the revenue generated from tourism is reinvested into the protection and management of the forest.

Canopy Walkway

One of the most famous attractions in Ngare Ndare is the Canopy Walkway, a suspended bridge that allows visitors to walk high above the forest floor. This experience offers a unique perspective of the forest, with panoramic views of the treetops and a chance to spot wildlife from a different vantage point.

The walkway is approximately 450 meters long and is an exciting, safe, and adventurous activity for visitors of all ages. It is an excellent spot for birdwatching and photography, with the lush forest and surrounding mountains serving as a beautiful backdrop.

Waterfalls

Ngare Ndare Forest is also known for its Ngare Ndare Waterfalls, a series of stunning waterfalls that cascade down the rocky cliffs. These falls are located within the forest and can be reached via a short hike through the forest. The waterfalls create a serene atmosphere and offer a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.

The clear, cool waters at the base of the falls provide a perfect spot for visitors to relax, swim, and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.

Nature Walks and Guided Tours

Visitors to Ngare Ndare Forest can enjoy a range of guided nature walks led by knowledgeable local guides. These walks provide an opportunity to learn about the forest's rich ecosystem, the medicinal plants used by local communities, and the history of the area.

The forest's trails are well-maintained and suitable for both casual walkers and more serious hikers. Along the trails, visitors can spot various animal tracks, learn about indigenous plant species, and observe birdlife.

Cultural and Community Engagement

Ngare Ndare Forest is not only an ecological treasure but also a place where local communities benefit from conservation efforts. The forest is managed with the involvement of the local Maasai and Kikuyu communities, who help protect the area and benefit from eco-tourism-related activities.

Cultural tours are available, where visitors can learn about the traditional uses of forest resources, local crafts, and the unique way the indigenous people of the area have historically interacted with the forest.

Adventure Activities

Besides walking safaris, the forest offers opportunities for more adventurous activities such as mountain biking and horseback riding along the forest trails. These activities allow visitors to explore the landscape at a different pace and get closer to nature.

For those interested in camping, there are designated campsites within the forest where visitors can stay overnight and experience the beauty of the forest under the stars.

Conservation Efforts

Ngare Ndare Forest is a key site for conservation initiatives aimed at protecting the region’s biodiversity and maintaining the ecological balance of the area. Conservation projects focus on sustainable forest management, preventing illegal logging, and protecting endangered species such as the bongo antelope.

The forest is also part of efforts to mitigate human-wildlife conflict by providing wildlife corridors for animals to move safely between Mount Kenya and the Laikipia Plateau.

Access and How to Get There

Ngare Ndare Forest is located about 30 kilometers from the town of Nanyuki and can be accessed by road from Nanyuki or Nairobi. The forest is reachable via the Nanyuki-Nakuru Road, which is well-paved and accessible by both private vehicles and public transport. It’s about a 3-hour drive from Nairobi, making it a convenient day-trip destination or weekend getaway for nature lovers.

Accommodation

While there is no formal accommodation inside the forest, visitors can find lodging in nearby Nanyuki, where there are various options, including luxury lodges, campsites, and hotels. For those who want a more immersive experience, there are also opportunities to camp near the forest, providing a closer connection to nature.

Best Time to Visit

Ngare Ndare Forest can be visited year-round, but the best time to go is during the dry season, from June to September and December to March, when the weather is more predictable, and wildlife viewing is easier. However, the forest is open to visitors throughout the year, and each season offers a different experience. During the rainy season (from March to May), the forest is lush and green, and the waterfalls are at their most spectacular.

Conclusion

Ngare Ndare Forest is a hidden gem in Kenya, offering visitors the chance to explore one of the country's most beautiful and ecologically rich environments. Whether you're interested in hiking through the rainforest, walking across the canopy, visiting waterfalls, or experiencing local culture, Ngare Ndare provides a diverse range of activities that cater to all types of travelers. Its conservation efforts and the involvement of local communities make it a key site for sustainable tourism in Kenya.