Best Fun Activities To Do At Kapsimotwa Gardens

Kapsimotwa Gardens is a serene and secluded site located in the picturesque Nandi Hills, which are a series of lush green rolling hills at the western edge of the Great Rift Valley. Sitting at about 2000m above sea level, the Gardens are part of the Kapsimotwa Farm – which comprises a huge tea plantation. The Farm was established in the 1930s by a British settler called Bushwell.

This garden has survived many generations from 1955 when it was started by an Australian white settler named Roy Mayer. She loved nature so much that she planted over 100 different flower species such as the Star of Bethlehem, English Bluebell, African daisy, jasmine, honesty, cardinal flower, Peruvian lily, hibiscus, granny’s bonnet, urn plant, African lilies, red roses and climbing orchids.

The gardens also boast of a number of both exotic and indigenous trees such as wild bananas, fountain, Nandi Flame, Nandi gold, Coco palm, Royal palm and bamboo trees. Over the years, the garden has remained intact. In the middle, two ponds are shaped like the Australian and African continents. The water naturally seeps from swampy ground and collects in the ponds.

If you are lucky, you will see monkeys like Colobus monkeys in the gardens either in the trees or sometimes even on top of the cars. You should take care of your food because they might snatch it. The Garden is a birding paradise too.

How to get to Kapsimotwa Gardens

From Kisumu, you go to Awasi and turn off to Chemeli, a picturesque road framed by lots of Jacaranda trees. Drive up the Nandi Hills to Kapsabet and turn in Kapsabet at the High school to the tea factory. Through all the tea plantations you will reach the garden on an easy driveway. Visitors can also tour the tea farms that were planted in the 1950s. They can also visit tea factories nearby and buy processed leaves to carry home. The huge green tea fields are already so beautiful but the garden is a jewel.

Kapsimotwa Gardens Charges

The entrance fees are Ksh 100 for Kenyans and Ksh 500 for foreigners.
Sport fishing is available at Ksh 500 while camping on their grounds costs Ksh 1,000 per tent.
They also have accommodation for which they charge around Ksh 3000 per night.

Best Fun Activities To Do At Kapsimotwa Gardens

1. Sport Fishing

Fishing is a popular activity in gardens, thanks to the numerous dams and ponds. You will be given a hook and line at the facility, or you may bring your own. Trout is common in the waters. If you’re new to the sport, a guide is on hand to help you get started. To top it off, have your catch cooked especially for you, exactly how you like it, but you also have the option of cooking it yourself.

2. Visit the Tea plantations

Nandi, like Kericho, is well-known as a tea-growing region. Because of the garden’s proximity to these tea plantations, you can pay a visit and take in the sights. You will gain knowledge of the tea harvesting and manufacturing processes. On a lucky day, the locals may offer you a pack of the purest and most delicious tea leaves to sample. If you see workers on the plantations, feel free to tip them for their efforts.

3. Camping

The daily tumult of life can be a source of exhaustion for anyone. To rejuvenate and unwind, it may be necessary to spend a day or two camping in a peaceful location. Kapsimotwa Gardens provides an ideal setting for this purpose, given its serene atmosphere and tranquillity. The camping fee is Ksh. 1000 per person, and guests are welcome to bring their camping equipment or rent it from the facility.

Security concerns should not be a worry, as the patrol guards will ensure safety. Guests may choose to prepare their meals or opt for a buffet at the onsite restaurant for Ksh 1000. Relax by a campfire and bask in the soothing sounds of crickets.

4. Visit Koitalel Arap Samoei’s grave

Discover the rich history and pay homage to a true hero at the burial site of the late Koitalel Arap Samoei, located just a few meters away from the garden. This revered veteran fought tirelessly against the oppressive white man’s regime and dedicated his life to protecting the Nandi community. His remains were laid to rest beneath a sacred tree near the hills, and to this day, locals continue to visit the site to honour his legacy.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about Koitalel’s remarkable life and heroic deeds. A guard will accompany you to the grave and provide you with fascinating insights into his journey, from his early days to his ultimate sacrifice. By visiting this site, you’ll not only gain a deeper appreciation for the history of the region but also pay your respects to a true champion of justice and freedom.

5. Picnicking

There’s nothing quite like a picnic to bring people together and create lasting bonds. And there’s no better place to do it than at Kapsimotwa Gardens. With its stunning scenery and perfect picnic spots, this is the ideal location for a day of fun, food, and conversation.

So why not pack a delicious lunch and head out to Kapsimotwa Gardens? You can enjoy your meal surrounded by the beauty of nature, and even grill up some nyama choma if you like. And if you don’t feel like cooking, the on-site restaurant has plenty of tasty options to choose from.

After lunch, why not get active and engage in some team-building activities? Kapsimotwa Gardens has facilities for racing, biking, and other sports, so you can work up a sweat and bond with your friends or colleagues at the same time.

6. Hold a ceremony or function

Experience the ultimate celebration amidst the serene ambience of our gardens and terrace. Immerse yourself in the cool breeze, rustling trees, and the soothing sound of bubbling waters. Kapsimotwa Gardens is perfect for any occasion, be it a themed birthday party, a grand wedding reception, or a memorable graduation ceremony. The gardens are renowned for their captivating atmosphere, attracting guests from far and wide. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to create unforgettable memories in a picturesque setting.

7. Hiking

Looking to unwind, rejuvenate, and breathe in some fresh air for a change? A walk through these vast gardens will suffice. Try a variety of exotic and indigenous tree species, including the Nandi Flame and bamboo. The forest is home to a variety of bird species, both common and rare, including weaver birds, eagles, woodpeckers, and doves, allowing you to engage in bird-watching activities. Make stops along the way to admire the nearby Nandi hills; the sight will brighten your day. You won’t have to worry about security because a guard will accompany you on the trail.

8. Photography

The landscape is pretty remarkable and the view is spectacular. Anyone who has been there can tell you that any spot can make a good photo background. Yes, it is the best place in Nandi Hills for a photo session.