Our Day Trip to Karura Forest
A Serene Hiking Experience in the Heart of Nairobi
When my husband suggested we go hiking in Karura Forest as one of the first things to do when we moved to Nairobi, I eagerly agreed. Our short 4-mile hike turned out to be a peaceful, scenic, and rejuvenating experience, far removed from the bustle of the city. We also got to see a beautiful waterfall and ended our hike at The Riverfront Cafe. If you’re looking for a refreshing day trip from Nairobi, don’t miss out on Karura Forest!
The first thing that struck us about Karura Forest was its accessibility. Despite being right in the heart of Nairobi, it was easy to get to. It has different hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels, but we settled on the popular “Waterfall Trail” that takes about 2-3 hours to complete
As soon as we started walking, we felt like we were in a different world altogether. The lush green forest provided a stark contrast to the dusty and noisy streets of Nairobi. We could hear bird songs, rustling leaves, and streams gurgling nearby. We passed by several open meadows, which seemed like perfect picnic spots. We also saw several species of wildlife, including monkeys.
The Waterfall!
The highlight of our hike was, of course, the waterfall. It was about halfway through the trail and required a bit of a detour from the main path. But it was so worth it! The waterfall was about 30 feet tall, with crystal clear water cascading down into a small pool. We spent some time admiring the beauty of the waterfall, taking pictures and feeling grateful for this serene moment.
The River Cafe
We ended our hike at the River Cafe, which is located near the Kiambu Road Gate of Karura Forest. It's a spacious, open-air restaurant that overlooks a river, and it was the perfect spot to unwind after our hike. We enjoyed some delicious Kenyan coffee, a fresh juice, and a light meal. The ambience was relaxed and tranquil, and we felt like we were miles away from the city!.
Don’t miss out on Karura Forest during your trip to Nairobi. It’s a beautiful place that offers a respite from the urban chaos, and it’s accessible enough to squeeze in a half day trip. Whether you go solo or with a group, make sure to take the time to appreciate the beauty of this forest.
…until our next adventure
