Ngare Ndare Forest: The hidden gem at the foothills of Mt. Kenya

If you have any doubts about how much Kenya has to offer, I dare you to visit Ngare Ndare Forest. This hidden gem is situated at the foothills of Mt.Kenya and boasts of its rich bird and animal life, 200-year-old trees, canopy walk, waterfalls and azure pools.

Ngare Ndare Forest is located in Meru county, an hour-long drive away from Nanyuki (Nanyuki is about a 4-hour drive away from Nairobi). I stayed in Nanyuki, given there were not many affordable accommodation options around the forest unless you're camping.

If you somehow find yourself in or around Meru county, make sure you visit Ngare Ndare forest to enjoy the following activities!

1. Canopy walk

The canopy walk is a 450m long bridge suspended 30ft above the ground. Its a bit wobbly and probably not the best for height phobias, but it does offer an amazing view of the forest both around and under your feet.

Canopy walk

#Canopy walk #Funtimes

2. Hike to waterfalls and azure pool

DO NOT BE AFRAID my fellow anti-hikers, the hike is just 3km to and 3km back, with little elevation. Plus, once you catch the glimpse of the azure pools, I promise you your fatigue will automatically vanish.

#Hiking #NgareNdareForest

BE AFRAID everyone, the water is ice cold. No really, you will probably have a few shivers and screams before you get used to the cold water, but again, all worth it once you experience the thrill of the cliff jumps or take those Instagram worthy pictures. ;)

#Waterfalls #azurepools

#AzurePools #IceCold

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Things to keep in mind

1. The pool isn't blue all year round. This is mainly due to the rains and elephants that occasionally decide to take a swim upstream, making the water brown by the time it gets to the waterfall. Therefore, plan the timing of the trip carefully (during the dry months).

2. There are many visitors so you may not have the pool to yourself. I would recommend visiting on Sunday, or earlier in the morning if you want an exclusive session at the pools.

3. The management does not allow entry past midday, given the amount of time the activities take. Plus, you do want value for your money.

4. Payment can only be done through MPESA. The hikes are also accompanied by an armed ranger, who has a fee of KES 1000 regardless of the number of people (also carry extra for a tip).

Total cost of the trip: KES 11,000 (2000 for entry to Ngare Ndare Forest)