Here is a list of the best places to visit in Kiambu County. Kiambu County is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of central Kenya. Known for its rich history and culture, this county is a true reflection of the country’s diverse heritage. From the lush green tea plantations that stretch as far as the eye can see, to the bustling local markets filled with colourful produce and handcrafted goods, Kiambu County is a place where tradition meets modernity.
Here are some of the best places to visit in Kiambu County:
Best Places To Visit In Kiambu County
1. The Great Rift Valley Viewpoint
Have you driven past the Nairobi-Naivasha Highway so many times that every time you pass by, you can’t help but think about how epic it would be to have a picnic at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint? The site is so picturesque, with vast lands stretching out as far as the eye can see, green patches of vegetation in the distance, and beautiful mountains nearby that make for an Instagram-worthy view. It’s a reminder that we live in a truly magical and beautiful country, Kenya. Here, you can capture a magnificent view of the majestic Rift Valley below. It’s the perfect spot for photos, with the green rolling plains forming a scenic backdrop. You can also grab a quick bite, visit the washroom, and replenish your drinks before continuing with your journey.
2. Blue Post Hotel
Nestled on the banks of the Thika River, the Blue Post Hotel is a tourist hotel that was started in 1908 and is located at the periphery of Murang’a County, on its border with Kiambu County. The hotel is located just off the busy Thika Super Highway, about 5 kilometres away from the industrial town of Thika. The property is spread over a 32-acre piece of land and sits between two rivers and two natural waterfalls, i.e., Thika and Chania Falls. No one visits Thika and fails to stop by this iconic hotel. The chefs here possess the most top-tier culinary skills, ready to send your taste buds reeling in shock. Their meals are mostly served buffet style, so you’ll be spoiled for choice with the wide array of delicacies, both local and international.
What’s more, you can wander at the scenic Chania Falls, which gives you an unbeatable scenic view. The entrance fee is only Ksh 100, and the hotel is very family-friendly, so be sure to even tag children along and let them have fun at the amusement park. Boat riding is available in their small pond, as are other activities like horseback riding. Most hotels hardly have game-viewing activities, but you’ll be in for a surprise at this particular hotel with different animals such as snakes, porcupines, and crocodiles. They even have a museum with a collection of various artefacts that you should check out.
3. Thika World War Memorial Park
As the name suggests, the memorial park was set up by the Prime Minister to honour war veterans who died fighting for the country’s independence. Locals who died fighting in World War II are also honoured. Their remains are buried here, and memorial services are held annually, every 15th of February, to commemorate them.
You can visit the place on a historical tour and learn about the country’s rich history, the names of different heroes and heroines, and how much they sacrificed for freedom. The guides are well versed in knowledge about history, so feel free to ask all the questions you have and be kind enough to tip them for the good services and hospitality they offer.
4. Chania Falls
Located on the outskirts of Thika, Chania Falls is a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. It offers a serene and picturesque setting, perfect for nature lovers and photographers. Although not as popular as the Fourteen Falls, this is your go-to place if you are looking for a low-key place that is not crowded but gives stunning views. The entrance to the falls is the same one to the Blue Post hotel, and no entrance fee is charged. Be sure to bring a good camera with you; you will need it to capture the beauty of Sheer. Group activities would best thrive here, so tag your friends or family along and create memories. Take nature walks, listen to the chirping birds, have picnics, and simply get lost in the beauty of nature; it is exactly what you need to rejuvenate.
5. Fourteen Falls
Just a short drive from Thika, Fourteen Falls is a magnificent waterfall on the Athi River. It is named after the 14 separate waterfalls that can be seen during the rainy season. Simply staring at the rushing waters and listening to the waves is enough to calm anyone’s mind. The entry fee is about 5 USD, which is very affordable. Furthermore, well-trained guides are readily available to give you a tour of the falls.
The Kilimambogo hills form the backdrop, giving you the perfect opportunity to take pictures and stock up on those memories. If you are looking to make your experience wilder, try diving in the waters; there are excellent spots for that, and the experience is simply unrivalled. Another activity to engage in is boat riding. It is the best way to cruise the waters, although you pay a fee for that too. If you like to snack throughout the day, you’d best carry your snacks and food, seeing that they do not offer them. All in all, the place is well-managed, and service providers are at your disposal; all you have to do is let loose.
6. Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park
Situated on the slopes of Mount Kilimambogo, this national park offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding plains. It is home to diverse wildlife, including buffaloes, monkeys, and various bird species. Visitors can hike to the peak of Mount Kilimambogo for a rewarding experience.
7. Church of the Torch
It is one of the most exquisite places of worship in East Africa. The Church of Torch was the brainchild of Scottish architect Bernard Gaymer. It was built in a neo-gothic style between 1928 and 1933 due to the rapid growth of Christian converts. For a long period, the church had no windows or doors aside from the six controversial stained glass windows that elders in the church termed as having satanic symbolism. It’s said that locals would contribute Ksh 3 to Ksh 10, eventually contributing a whopping Ksh 700,000 to see the church stand. The church was gazetted as a national monument on April 11th, 2008.
Now still standing with little to no renovations, the building sits on well-manicured lawns and competes with modern-day architectural designs just fine. There is a lot to marvel at in this ancient structure. When you visit it, you’ll be transported back to the early 1900s, when the church was brand new and the faithful began flocking in on chilly Sunday mornings.
8. Nachu Caves
Famously known as Nachu Caves Located in the Gatune Hills. The caves are rocky and slippery. Fun fact: they take the shape of the horn of Africa. Inside these caves are remnants of ash and the names of people scribbled on them. The path to get here shifts from mud, bush, and shrubs to grazing fields as the Ngong Hills come into clear view. This short and sweet adventure requires crawling on fours when descending with a touch of balance. Ngurunga cia Njangiri is translated from Kikuyu, meaning thugs caves.
9. 254 Brewing Company
The 254 Brewing Co is a must-visit place in Kikuyu town. It is the newest craft brewery in Kenya and is known for its unfiltered, unpasteurized craft beer. You can easily locate the brewery by searching for “254 Brewing Co” on Google Maps. It is located in Levilla Gardens, Kikuyu, which is just five minutes away from the town centre. By visiting the 254 Brewing Company, you can try out their handcrafted beers in their 254 Tap Room.
The bartenders at 254 Brewing Co are very welcoming and will introduce themselves as soon as you sit. They will also walk you through the menu and give you recommendations on their signature beers. They have a wide variety of craft beers, including Niaje?, Mura Tatu, Cliff Hanger, Karibrew, Ni How, Sand Trap, Golden Rump, Maxwell House, and the 254 Brewing Co. One must try their newest addition, Maxwell’s House.
If you are a new visitor, you can opt for their flight option, which allows you to sample any five beers for a fixed price of Kshs 650 during regular hours and Kshs 500 during happy hour. During happy hour, all beers are Ksh 200, cocktails are Ksh 700, and flights are Ksh 500. This is especially beneficial for new visitors who want to try different beers before deciding on their favourite. While you wait for your honey-glazed pork ribs and potato wedges to be prepared, you will order one of their signature beers and enjoy the cosy environment. You also get to enjoy beer-infused foods, gin cocktails, Booch raw kombucha, and free sparkling water.
10. Evergreen Park
The Evergreen Park is located on Kiambu Road, about 500 metres to the left after the Northern Bypass overpass. You would love to go on a picnic here. You will be spoiled for choice here, with activities such as fishing, boating, and horse and camel riding, among others. The Evergreen Park provides a peaceful and serene setting ideal for Instagram-worthy photo shoots, plus there is a man-made dam that provides you with the best natural breezes. If you bring your kids, there is plenty of room for them, as well as a bouncing castle. This will keep them busy and happy while you bond with them.
11. Paradise Lost
Paradise Lost is an expansive picnic gem in Nairobi. It is located away from the city on Kiambu Road and has many attractions, such as caves, waterfalls, boat rides, camel rides, and horseback riding. A nature trail also leads away from the boats and towards the caves and falls. The falls are high up, so the impact is loud, and there is a cool breeze gently blowing over the area. There are large rocks all around where you can take photos of the falls and scenery.
While the caves lack natural light, they provide an exciting adventure because you must fumble through the darkness in some areas. Try walking in complete darkness in an unfamiliar setting with uneven and rocky terrain. You’ll cling to your partner as the echo picks up on and amplifies your secrets. Light bulbs have since been installed in some areas of the cave, so you don’t have to be afraid of the dark. Visitors must pay an entrance fee, which excludes a few activities such as horseback riding, camel rides, and boat rides.
Furthermore, because Paradise Lost is located in the heart of the coffee farm, visiting the coffee farm is permitted. The park only accepts mobile money payments for each of the activities. If public transportation is used, matatu number 100 from Nairobi should be used.
12. Waterfalls Inn Tigoni
The Waterfalls Inn picnic site is located in Tigoni, Limuru, in Kiambu County. Entry fees of Ksh 450 per adult and Ksh 200 per child give you access to this rustic 1960 establishment, which is set on a hill with a view of Nairobi’s skyline on the horizon beyond the tea plantations and the beautiful waterfall, making it a place worth visiting. A short stroll down through eucalyptus woodlands takes you to the beautiful 18-meter Tigoni Waterfall, set in a lush green riverine forest. If you bring your drinks, you’ll have to pay corkage fees.
13. The Forest Kereita
Kereita is located in Kimende town. It’s just one hour from Nairobi city centre. The Forest is East Africa’s longest zip line tour, offering over 2.2km of flight across the lush Kereita forest. This includes 6 zip lines, with the longest being 425 metres. There is a carrying capacity of a maximum of 115 kilogrammes and a minimum height requirement of 1.4 metres.
The forest is also a perfect location to enjoy other activities such as archery, mountain biking, nature walks, paintballing, fly fishing, camping, team building, and tree planting. The entry fee to The Forest, Kereita, is Kshs 200 for adults and Kshs 50 for students and those under 18 years old. The zip-lining charges are Kshs 1,800 for 2 lines and Kshs 2,800 for the 6 lines. All payments are made via Paybill or M-PESA; cash is not accepted. Make sure you book earlier because the place gets packed, especially on weekends and holidays.
14. Sigona Golf Club
Sigona Golf Club combines luxury, exceptional service, and the ultimate golfing experience. Located in Kikuyu, along the Nairobi-Naivasha highway, the club is a twenty-minute drive from Nairobi. Sigona Golf Club lends itself to a serene atmosphere amidst beautiful flower bushes and scenic greenery.
Constructed in 1938, this lovely private members club has an inviting, modern clubhouse and a golf course designed to championship standards. It also boasts a swimming pool with a bar and a children’s playground to meet your recreational needs.
15. Gatamaiyu Camp and Fishing Ground
Gatamaiyu Camp and Fishing Ground is a highly sought-after spot for camping and fishing in Kenya. It’s situated in Gatamaiyu Forest, which is a part of the Kereita Forest, and provides a tranquil and natural environment for camping enthusiasts and those who love to fish. The campsite boasts breathtaking scenery, making it an ideal getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Additionally, the Gatamaiyu riverine walk is a perfect destination for urban bird watching. The campsite also features clean and well-maintained bathrooms and toilets. Plus, visitors can enjoy a hiking trail that leads to two stunning waterfalls. The Kenya Wildlife Service manages the site, ensuring that it’s safe and secure for all visitors.
