Nyahururu Travel Guide

Explore the natural and cultural attractions of Nyahururu, Kenya, and discover the best things to do, see, eat, and buy in this charming town with our comprehensive travel guide.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Nyahururu, Kenya

Nyahururu, a town nestled in the Southern Rift Valley of Kenya, boasts a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural wonders that will leave every traveler in awe. Whether you want to explore the natural attractions or delve deep into the local culture and customs, Nyahururu has something to offer for everyone. In this travel guide, we will take you through the must-visit places, best things to do, and essential travel tips for Nyahururu.

List of Places to Visit in Nyahururu

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

On your visit to Nyahururu, you can’t miss these culturally significant places:

  • Thompson Falls: One of the most popular attractions in Nyahururu, Thompson Falls is a breathtaking waterfall that plunges 74 meters into a small pool. You can take a picnic by the falls and enjoy the views of the lush greenery and the sound of the water.

  • Ol Jogi Wildlife Conservancy: This wildlife conservancy is home to numerous endangered species such as white and black rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffes, zebras, and more. You can take a guided safari tour to observe these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.

  • Happy Valley: This historical place was once the playground of the affluent and famous during the colonial era. You can take a guided tour of the mansions and estates of the notorious Happy Valley set, which was known for its wild parties, scandals, and murder mysteries.

Natural Attractions of Nyahururu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

You will be awed by the natural beauty and diversity of Nyahururu’s landscapes:

  • Aberdare National Park: The Aberdare mountain range is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including elephants, buffalos, black and white colobus monkeys, and more. You can hike, bike or take a guided safari tour to explore the park’s beauty.

  • Lake Ol Bolossat: This freshwater lake is a bird watcher’s paradise, with over 180 bird species found in and around the lake on the way to Nyahururu. You can take an early morning or late evening boat ride to observe the vast birdlife and unwind in the serene lake scenery.

  • Hell’s Gate National Park: As the name implies, Hell’s Gate is a stunning natural wonder and is one of the only parks in Kenya that allows for hiking and biking within the park. You can explore the towering cliffs, waterfalls, and geothermal hot springs, and even rock climb some of the park’s prominent landmarks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nyahururu

If you’re an outdoor adventure enthusiast, you can’t miss the following trails in Nyahururu:

  • Mount Satima: This challenging hike takes you up a 4000-meter mountain peak and passes through beautiful mountain valleys with stunning views.

  • Kinangop Plateau: This biking route takes you through the vast Kinangop plateau, offering you one of the most scenic bike rides in Kenya.

  • Abedare Forest Trail: The Abedare Forest trail is a moderate hiking route that takes you through dense forests and jungle canopies, providing adventurous trekkers with a unique taste of the wilderness.

Best Things to Do in Nyahururu: Activities and Tours

There’s never a dull moment in Nyahururu; Here are the best things to do:

  • Take a hot air balloon ride: Offered by local tours, this unique experience will provide a bird’s eye view of Nyahururu’s stunning landscapes.

  • Visit the Maasai Market: Held every Saturday in Nyahururu, the Maasai Market is a vibrant and colorful cultural display of local handmade crafts, pottery, beaded jewelry, and paintings.

  • Go for a cultural tour: You can take a guided cultural tour of local villages and communities, where you can learn about the traditional way of life, music, dance, and food customs unique to the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nyahururu

If you want to make the most of your trip, here’s what you can do in Nyahururu for a week:

Day Plan
1 Visit Thompson falls and Happy Valley
2 Explore the Aberdare National Park
3 Visit Ol Jogi Wildlife Conservancy
4 Biking or Hiking in Kinangop Plateau or Mt. Satima
5 Have a cultural tour of local villages and communities
6 Visit Lake Ol Bolossat and Hell’s Gate Park
7 Relax and enjoy the local food and drink scene

Food and Drink Scene of Nyahururu

You must try the following local dishes and beverages, unique to the Nyahururu region:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Nyama Choma: This beloved dish is a Kenyan barbecue staple, consisting of roasted goat or beef meat.

  • Ugali: A starch made from maize flour, Ugali is a staple carb that is enjoyed with almost every Kenyan meal.

  • Pilau: Pilau is a rice dish spiced with cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom, often made with meat or vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Tusker Lager: Tusker is an iconic Kenyan beer and is brewed with locally-sourced ingredients, making it a great drink to sip on a hot afternoon.

  • Chai: Kenyan tea is famous worldwide for its unique flavor and aroma, often enjoyed with a dash of milk and sugar.

  • Busaa: For a taste of the local drink, you can try Busaa, a fermented drink made from maize or sorghum and is enjoyed by many locals.

Where to Stay in Nyahururu: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Nyahururu has different options for travelers with varied budget preferences. Some of the best places to stay in Nyahururu include:

  • Panari Resort Nyahururu: This luxury resort provides a warm and comfortable atmosphere with fantastic views of Mount Kenya.

  • Rhino Watch Lodge: Rhino Watch Lodge offers upscale, self-contained cottages, each with a fireplace, a private balcony, and a bathtub.

  • Aberdeen’s Hotel: Aberdeen’s Hotel offers mid-market rooms with beautiful views of the Aberdare Range and Aberdare National Park.

What to Buy in Nyahururu: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

You can bring home some of the local crafts and souvenirs unique to Nyahururu:

  • Handmade Beaded Jewelry: Handmade beaded jewelry is the most sought-after souvenir for tourists visiting Nyahururu. You can get it from the Maasai Market or local artisan shops.

  • Pottery: Local artisans make beautiful and intricate pottery pieces that make for beautiful home decor pieces or gifts.

  • Local Honey Products: Nyahururu is known for its abundant honey production, and you can buy natural honey or honey products such as lotions and soaps.

Local Culture and Customs of Nyahururu

The culture of Nyahururu is primarily influenced by the Maasai community, who are known for their colorful traditional clothing, beadwork, music, and dancing. It is essential to respect the local customs, including their beliefs, attire, and conduct, when visiting the town.

Best Time to Visit Nyahururu

The best time to visit Nyahururu is during the dry season, from December to March and from June to September, when the weather is warm and dry, making it easy to explore outdoor attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nyahururu

Do:

  • Respect local customs and manners.

  • Wear appropriate clothing when visiting traditional or religious sites.

  • Try to learn some basic Swahili phrases to communicate with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t take photographs of people or things without their permission.

  • Don’t wander in unfamiliar areas alone at night to ensure your safety.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nyahururu

Like any other place, Nyahururu has its security concerns, but it is generally regarded as a safe town for travelers. To ensure your safety, you should keep tabs on your belongings, avoid walking around in the dark, and refrain from engaging in activities that seemed too risky.

Health in Nyahururu

Travelers are advised to take necessary vaccines, including hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and yellow fever, at least 6-8 weeks before the visit. It is also important to carry a first aid kit, maintain good hygiene practices, and avoid drinking tap water.

Getting to Nyahururu: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several ways to get to Nyahururu, including:

Airports Near Nyahururu

The nearest airports to Nyahururu are Wilson Airport in Nairobi and Moi International Airport in Mombasa.

Bus Stations Near Nyahururu

The main bus stations in Nyahururu are Nyahururu Bus Station, which is located in the town center and offers services to Nairobi and other neighboring towns.

Other Options

You can also choose to rent a car, hire a taxi, or take private shuttle services to and from Nyahururu.

How to Get Around in Nyahururu

There are several ways to get around Nyahururu, including:

  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available, but you should negotiate the fare before boarding.

  • Buses: Public transport buses operate in and around Nyahururu, making them an affordable mode of transport.

  • Car rentals: You can rent a car from any of the car hire companies and drive yourself around Nyahururu.

Where to Go Next from Nyahururu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Kenya, here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Lake Nakuru National Park: Located 70 km south of Nyahururu, Lake Nakuru National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its flamingos and other birdlife.

  • Mount Kenya National Park: Mount Kenya National Park is located approximately 100 km southeast of Nyahururu and is home to Mount Kenya, the highest mountain in Kenya.

Conclusion

From its lush landscapes to its rich cultural heritage, Nyahururu offers a unique and unforgettable experience that will enrich your African travel experience. With its mix of natural beauty and cultural diversity, Nyahururu is one of Kenya’s hidden gems that will leave every traveler wanting more. Plan your trip to Nyahururu today, and make unforgettable memories that you will cherish for a lifetime.

Thomson's Falls. Thomson's Falls.