Things To Do
in Nanyuki
Nanyuki sits on the high plains at the foothills of Mount Kenya, renowned for its cool climate and agricultural surroundings. The town acts as a gateway to wildlife conservancies, scenic viewpoints, and major Mt. Kenya routes. Its relaxed pace, markets, and lodges make it a convenient base for safari day trips and nature walks.
With nearby forests, farms, and the mountain in clear view, Nanyuki offers a balanced mix of outdoor adventure and small-town Kenyan hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Nanyuki and settle into your accommodation. After unpacking, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Kenyan dishes. Take a stroll through the town to get familiar with the area's charm and vibrant culture.
Visit the Ol Pejeta Conservancy to witness the incredible wildlife, including the endangered white rhinos. Enjoy a guided safari tour that allows you to explore diverse landscapes and spot various animals in their natural habitat. Stop for a picnic lunch within the conservancy, surrounded by nature.
Return to Nanyuki and dine at a cozy restaurant offering a blend of local and international cuisine. Engage with fellow travelers and share stories of your adventures over a meal. Cap off the evening by soaking in the starry skies that Nanyuki is known for, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Rise early and prepare for a day hike at Mount Kenya National Park. After a hearty breakfast, join a guided tour that takes you through lush forests, with the chance to spot unique flora and fauna. The morning air is invigorating and promises stunning views as you approach the mountain.
Continue your hike, venturing further up the mountain slopes with a picnic lunch prepared for you by your guides. Enjoy the breathtaking vistas and capture memorable photos of the peaks and valleys. The terrain varies from rocky paths to gentle slopes, offering something for every level of hiker.
Return to your accommodation after a fulfilling day of exploration. Enjoy a well-deserved dinner, relishing the local cuisine that reflects the region's culture. Spend the evening relaxing, perhaps sharing stories around a campfire or enjoying a peaceful night under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $18-30 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🛒Groceries for a day | $6-15 |
| 🏨One-night stay (mid-range hotel) | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Cool climate and scenic highland setting
- Gateway to Mt. Kenya region and wildlife conservancies
- Limited nightlife compared to major cities
- Roads can be dusty or muddy in the rainy season
- "Habari" - Hello/How are you?
- "Asante" - Thank you
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Unaongea Kiingereza?" - Do you speak English?
- "Samahani" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Choo kiko wapi?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ningependa" - I would like
- "Ndio/Hapana" - Yes/No
- "Gari inaenda wapi?" - Where is the taxi?
- "Bei gani?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Nanyuki
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views of Mount Kenya’s peak and the surrounding highlands, especially dramatic at sunrise.
Golden-hour shots of locals at the market with the river and town streets in the background.
Wildlife-rich landscapes with flat horizons and acacia trees; excellent for sunset silhouettes.
Food in Nanyuki
Nanyuki Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Char-grilled meat (often goat or beef) served with kachumbari; a staple at roadhouses and lodges.
Must-Try!
Maize flour porridge paired with sautéed greens; a comforting, widely available combo.
Flatbread served with pigeon peas or beans; common in cafés and eateries.
A hearty mix of maize and beans, sometimes with vegetables or meat.
Mash of potatoes with greens and corn; often served as a side.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling daily market offering fresh produce, dairy products, spices, and street snacks like roasted maize and samosas.
Smaller stalls with local crafts, snacks, and coffee roasters; great for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake with eye contact is standard; greet people you meet in markets and shops politely.
Casual, neat clothing is appropriate; cover shoulders and knees when visiting rural areas or religious sites.
Ask for permission before taking people’s photos or private homes; always be respectful.
Show courtesy in conversations and avoid public disagreement with elders.
Safety
Tipping in Nanyuki
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 5–10% tip is common if service isn’t included; round up fares for taxis and guides.
Cash (KES) is widely accepted; mobile money (e.g., M-Pesa) is extremely common; some upscale places accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm daytime temperatures with cool nights. Clear skies offer excellent mountain views, though mornings can be foggy near Mt. Kenya.
Heavy rainfall and muddy roads; plan for flexible itineraries and bring rain gear and waterproof footwear.
Intermittent showers with higher humidity; still good for wildlife and photography when showers pass.
Nanyuki at Night
Hiking in Nanyuki
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Classic trekking route to Point Lenana with diverse scenery, from montane forests to alpine zones.
Gentle trails around the foothills offering rich birdlife and scenic viewpoints.
Day hikes through farmland, pine forests, and viewpoints toward the town and Mt. Kenya range.
Airports
How to reach Nanyuki by plane.
Local airport with domestic flights to Nairobi and other centers; accessible by taxi or shuttle from the town center.
Kenya’s main international gateway; about a 3–4 hour drive from Nanyuki, with connections to regional hubs.
Domestic flights to smaller airstrips; convenient for quick hops around the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Kikuyu and Meru communities in the central highlands, with resident expatriates and visitors from across Kenya and beyond.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and local leagues; community games are common on weekends.
A popular sport at schools and clubs; regional matches are part of the community calendar.
Running and track events are common at schools and community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nanyuki.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most menus offer vegetable stews, ugali, chapati, and salads; ask for plant-based preparations and confirm ingredients when dining out.