Things To Do
in Kiambu
Kiambu County sits on the highlands just north of Nairobi, enjoying a cool, fertile climate. Its landscape is defined by rolling tea estates, dairy farms, and lush green hills. The area is rich in Kikuyu culture and warm hospitality, with easy access to the capital.
Visitors come for natural scenery, agriculture tours, and a relaxed small-town atmosphere within reach of Nairobi.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a guided tour of one of Kiambu's renowned coffee farms, where you can learn about the coffee-growing process from seed to cup. Enjoy a freshly brewed cup of local coffee as you stroll through the lush fields, soaking in the fragrant aroma of the beans. Engage with local farmers who will share stories about their heritage and the importance of coffee in their lives.
After lunch at a nearby café featuring locally sourced ingredients, take part in a coffee tasting session to discern the unique flavors of Kiambu coffee. Spend some time visiting a local artisan shop where you can purchase handmade crafts and coffee-related souvenirs. As the afternoon unfolds, explore the scenic landscapes, capturing stunning photographs of the rolling hills and vibrant greenery.
As the sun sets, dine at a traditional Kenyan restaurant, enjoying local dishes such as ugali and nyama choma. Share stories with fellow travelers or locals, immersing yourself in the warmth of Kenyan hospitality. End your evening with a leisurely walk under the stars, soaking in the tranquility of the countryside.
Begin your day by visiting the Karura Forest, a beautiful urban forest that offers peaceful trails and a chance to connect with nature. Enjoy a morning walk surrounded by tall trees and the sounds of birds, perhaps spotting some local wildlife along the way. Stop by a small café within the forest for a light breakfast, relishing the serene atmosphere.
Head to the nearby town of Limuru, known for its rich cultural heritage, and visit a local market bustling with vendors selling fresh produce and handicrafts. Participate in a cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional Kikuyu dishes, guided by a local chef who will share the secrets of Kenyan cuisine. Enjoy the fruits of your labor during lunch, savoring the flavors you’ve just created.
Return to Kiambu for a cultural evening at a local theater, where you can experience traditional dance performances and storytelling. Engage with the performers during the intermission, gaining insight into the cultural significance of the dances. Conclude your evening with dessert at a nearby café, indulging in sweet treats made from local ingredients.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚌Local transport (short ride) | $1-3 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1L) | $0.50-1.00 |
| ☕Coffee/tea (local cafe) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful highland scenery and tea country
- Close proximity to Nairobi with easy weekend trips
- Limited nightlife compared to Nairobi
- Roads can be busy and some rural roads may be rough in rain
- "Habari yako?" - How are you?
- "Asante" - Thank you
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Naweza kupiga picha?" - Can I take a photo?
- "Nina njaa" - I am hungry
Places to Visit in Kiambu
Visit one of these nice places.
Rolling green hills of Limuru with tea bushes and misty mornings, perfect for landscape photography.
Elevated viewpoints over the town and farmland; best at sunrise or sunset for dramatic light.
Forest trails with dappled light, birdlife, and tranquil streams—great for nature photography.
Open vistas that reveal patchwork farms and distant hills on clear days.
Food in Kiambu
Kiambu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple maize porridge served with sautéed kale; common at homes and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Charred meat grilled over an open flame, often served with kachumbari and ugali.
A comforting blend of mashed potatoes, green peas, maize, and greens.
Mash of beans, potatoes, greens and corn, typically served with meat and vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with fresh vegetables, fruits, grains, and street snacks like roasted maize.
Market known for fresh dairy, greens, tomatoes, and local snacks.
Popular street snack freshly roasted on charcoal as you drive through farms.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake and eye contact; use polite phrases in Swahili where possible.
Show respect to elders; address people with titles and courtesy in conversation.
Always ask for permission before photographing people or private property.
Safety
Tipping in Kiambu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common in restaurants and hotels; 5–10% for good service. Small tips for drivers or porters are appreciated but not mandatory in casual settings.
Cash (Kenyan shillings) is widely accepted; mobile money (M-Pesa) is ubiquitous; many larger hotels and some restaurants accept card payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect heavy showers in the afternoons; humidity is high. Lush landscapes are at their peak, but trails can be slippery; carry waterproofs.
Frequent showers with sunny intervals; trails may be muddy. Pack quick-drying clothes and sturdy footwear.
Cool to warm days with clearer skies; ideal for outdoor activities and tea estate visits. Evenings and mornings can be cool, so bring a light jacket.
Kiambu at Night
Hiking in Kiambu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rolling hills with tea estates and forest patches; easy to moderate difficulty.
Classic day hike offering expansive views over the city skyline on clear days.
Airports
How to reach Kiambu by plane.
Kenya's main international gateway; about a 20–60 minute drive to central Kiambu depending on traffic.
Nairobi's domestic airport; convenient for quick hops to nearby destinations and charter flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group in Kiambu with a strong cultural heritage and language influence.
People from Nairobi and other regions living in towns for work, contributing to diverse local life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Kiambu County with local leagues and pickup games.
Golf is enjoyed in Limuru, notably at Limuru Country Club, offering a scenic highland course.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kiambu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Kiambu, vegetarian options include ugali, mukimo, irio, githeri, fresh vegetables, and fruit; most places can prepare meat-free versions if asked.