Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve

Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve, located at the foothills of Mount Kenya, is a lush, indigenous forest teeming with natural beauty and rich biodiversity. Spanning over 5,000 hectares, this forest is critical as a wildlife corridor, connecting Mount Kenya and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.

Ngare Ndare, which means “goats’ water” in the Maasai language, is a key water source, with several streams and rivers feeding into the Ewaso Ng’iro River, vital for local wildlife and communities.

The forest reserve is more than just a beautiful location; it is also an important conservation area. Managed by the Ngare Ndare Forest Trust, it works with neighboring conservancies and the Kenya Forest Service to protect the forest’s biodiversity and maintain its role as a critical migratory route for elephants. Rangers patrol the forest, ensuring its safety from illegal logging and poaching.

Where is Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve located?

Ngare Ndare Forest is located in Laikipia County, Kenya, at the foothills of Mount Kenya, about 45 kilometers (28 miles) southeast of Nanyuki Airstrip, a drive that typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours. It lies approximately 230 kilometers (143 miles) north of Nairobi, with a drive taking 3 to 4 hours via the A2 highway through Thika, Sagana, Karatina, and Nanyuki.

For those preferring to fly, the flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Nanyuki Airstrip takes 40 to 50 minutes. Ngare Ndare is a critical wildlife corridor linking Mount Kenya to Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. It is an excellent stop for nature lovers exploring Mount Kenya and nearby conservancies like Lewa and Borana.

When is the best time to book a visit to Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve?

Bookings are done in advance to avoid inconveniences, between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm on weekdays, from 8: 00 am to 1:00 pm on weekends. The best times to visit are early morning, 8:00 to 10:00 am, as most wildlife will hide from the midday heat and also to avoid heat while on a nature walk.

What are the activities that can be done in Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve?

Waterfalls and Pools: Ngare Ndare Forest is renowned for its six natural blue pools and a majestic 30-foot waterfall. Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear, cool waters and relax in the peaceful surroundings. The pools are fed by streams that flow year-round, and they are surrounded by lush vegetation, offering a perfect spot for photography and picnics.

Rock Climbing: For adrenaline seekers, Ngare Ndare offers challenging rock climbing opportunities on natural rock formations. These spots are best suited for experienced climbers and require technical skills. There are also areas for abseiling, where adventurers can rappel down cliffs for an added thrill.

Game Drives: The forest serves as a vital wildlife corridor, connecting Mount Kenya and Lewa Conservancy, making it a prime spot for game drives. Visitors can explore the forest in 4×4 vehicles, spotting animals such as elephants, buffaloes, and a variety of other wildlife species. The dense forest and rough terrain require a sturdy vehicle for navigation, especially during the rainy season.

Tree Canopy Walk: One of Ngare Ndare’s most iconic features is the Tree Canopy Walk, a 450-meter-long suspended bridge 30 feet above the forest floor. This walk provides a bird’s-eye view of the forest, with wildlife like elephants and buffaloes often visible below. The walk ends at a wooden platform that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Forest Camping: Ngare Ndare has two designated campsites near streams, equipped with basic amenities such as clean water, toilets, and showers. Camping in the forest provides a peaceful escape with the sounds of nature, stargazing, and campfires. Armed guards are present for safety from wildlife, ensuring a secure and serene camping experience. If requested, guests can also have a night camping experience within the forest.

Bird Watching and Wildlife Spotting: The forest is home to over 200 bird species, including rare species like Hartlaub’s Turaco and the Narina Trogon, making it a bird watcher’s paradise. Ngare Ndare also hosts a variety of wildlife, including the Big Five and smaller mammals such as bushbucks and waterbucks.

Forest Walks: Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy the forest’s 3.5 km trail, which leads to the waterfalls and blue pools. The walk takes about an hour and offers an immersive experience through the dense forest, with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the sounds of birds along the way. The trail ends at the pools, providing a perfect spot for a refreshing swim.

Click on the following link to view our trip to the forest reserve | Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve Hiking Day trip

Are there any accommodation options in Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve?

There are no accommodation options in Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve, as the reserve focuses primarily on conservation and nature-based activities. However, there are nearby options you can consider:

Borana Conservancy Lodges: Close to Ngare Ndare, Borana Conservancy offers more luxurious accommodation options, such as Laragai House, Borana Lodge, and Sirai House. While they are focused on conservation, they provide excellent access to both Borana and Ngare Ndare activities.

Lewa Conservancy Accommodation: Also nearby, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy offers high-end lodges and tented camps, such as Lewa Wilderness and Kifaru House, which can be good bases for exploring Ngare Ndare.

Click on the following link to view other accommodation options that give you access to the forest reserve: Click Here

Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, acting as a crucial corridor between Mount Kenya and Lewa Conservancy. Among its most notable inhabitants are elephants, which frequently use the forest as a migration path and are often spotted near the forest’s natural water sources.

Buffaloes are also common, grazing in clearings or resting in the shade of dense vegetation. Big cats such as leopards and lions, though more elusive, roam the forest’s rugged terrain, while antelopes, including bushbucks and waterbucks, can be seen near the streams.

Smaller mammals like warthogs and monkeys add to the forest’s vibrant ecosystem, and occasional sightings of hyenas, bush pigs, and dik-diks contribute to its rich biodiversity.

The forest is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 200 bird species. Among the highlights are colorful and rare birds like Hartlaub’s Turaco and the Narina Trogon, which are often spotted in the dense canopy.

Birds of prey such as crowned eagles and augur buzzards soar above the forest, while smaller species like sunbirds, weavers, and woodpeckers are frequently seen darting between the trees. Water birds, including herons and kingfishers, thrive near the forest’s streams and pools.

This diverse birdlife, combined with the forest’s wide range of mammals, makes Ngare Ndare an ideal destination for wildlife and bird enthusiasts seeking an immersive nature experience.

Waterfalls and Pools

Ngare Ndare Forest is renowned for its beautiful natural blue pools and waterfalls, with one of the highlights being a majestic 30-foot waterfall. This picturesque location provides an opportunity for visitors to swim in the crystal-clear, cool waters and relax in the peaceful surroundings.

The forest has six such pools, nestled deep within its lush greenery, offering a refreshing escape from the heat, especially after a hike. These pools are ideal for those looking to unwind, with the serene environment enhancing the overall experience.

The pools are fed by the forest’s pristine streams, which flow throughout the year, ensuring that the water remains fresh and inviting. Surrounded by dense vegetation, the pools create a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.

Visitors often picnic near the waterfalls, basking in the natural beauty that surrounds them. Accessing the pools usually involves a scenic forest walk, adding an element of adventure before reaching this tranquil oasis.

Rock Climbing

For adrenaline seekers, Ngare Ndare offers challenging rock climbing opportunities. While the forest is not widely known as a major climbing destination, it does have specific spots with rocks suitable for climbing.

These spots are generally more appropriate for experienced climbers, as they are natural formations that may not have the same safety measures as conventional climbing walls. Climbers are advised to bring their equipment and ensure they have sufficient expertise, as the rugged terrain requires technical skill and preparation. The climbing spots also offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, providing a thrilling yet rewarding experience.

Alongside rock climbing, there are areas for abseiling, where adventurers can rappel down cliffs with the help of safety ropes. This combination of rock climbing and abseiling adds an extra dimension to the outdoor experience in Ngare Ndare, making it an attractive spot for adventure enthusiasts.

Game Drives

Ngare Ndare Forest serves as a vital wildlife corridor, connecting key ecosystems such as Mount Kenya National Park and the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. This makes it an excellent location for game drives, where visitors can explore the forest’s diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.

With a 4×4 vehicle, adventurers can navigate through the forest and spot various animals, including elephants, buffaloes, and other wildlife. The dense forest is home to many species, and game drives offer a unique perspective on the region’s biodiversity.

The forest acts as a refuge for wildlife due to its abundant water supply, and during drives, visitors may encounter herds of elephants as they move through the forest on ancient migration paths. The rough terrain of the forest means that a four-wheel-drive vehicle is necessary for a smooth experience, especially during the rainy season when roads can become challenging to traverse.

Tree Canopy Walk

One of the most iconic activities at Ngare Ndare Forest is the Tree Canopy Walk, a 450-meter-long suspended bridge that stretches 30 feet above the forest floor. This bridge is the longest canopy walk in East Africa, offering visitors a bird’s-eye view of the forest and its wildlife.

Walking along the bridge allows for unparalleled vistas of the treetops, with elephants and buffaloes often visible below as they come to drink from the forest’s swampy areas. The canopy walk is designed to blend into the natural surroundings, giving walkers the sensation of floating above the forest.

For those with a fear of heights, the walk can be a thrilling challenge, but the views and the serene experience are well worth the effort. At the end of the walk, a wooden platform provides a resting point with panoramic views, allowing visitors to soak in the beauty of the forest from a unique vantage point.

Forest Camping

Ngare Ndare Forest offers camping enthusiasts the chance to experience the wilderness firsthand, with two designated campsites nestled near flowing streams. The campsites are equipped with essential amenities like clean water, toilets, and showers, but retain an authentic wilderness feel.

Camping in the forest is a peaceful way to connect with nature, with the sounds of birds and the flowing streams providing a soothing background. The presence of armed guards ensures safety from wildlife, especially at night.

Campers can enjoy stargazing, sitting by a campfire, or simply immersing themselves in the forest’s tranquility. The camping experience at Ngare Ndare is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle of city life and recharge amidst nature. Additionally, camping allows visitors to fully explore the forest’s many activities, from the canopy walk to the nearby waterfalls.

Bird Watching and Wildlife Spotting

With over 200 bird species, Ngare Ndare Forest is a paradise for bird watchers. The forest is home to both resident and migratory species, including some rare and elusive birds like Hartlaub’s Turaco and the Narina Trogon.

The diversity of birds is enhanced by the forest’s rich ecosystem, which also supports various mammals, including elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes. Visitors can take guided bird-watching tours to identify the numerous species that inhabit the forest’s canopy and understory.

In addition to birdlife, Ngare Ndare hosts the Big Five, making it a key spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Smaller mammals such as bushbucks, waterbucks, and warthogs also roam the forest, providing a well-rounded wildlife experience.

Forest Walks

Hiking enthusiasts will find Ngare Ndare’s Forest Walks both refreshing and adventurous. The main hiking trail stretches 3.5 km through the forest, leading to the famous waterfalls and blue pools.

The trail takes about an hour to complete, with portions of the path becoming steep but still manageable. As hikers traverse the dense forest, they are treated to the sounds of chirping birds and the occasional sighting of wildlife.

The forest walk is an immersive way to experience Ngare Ndare’s natural beauty, allowing visitors to disconnect from the outside world and connect with nature. The walk ends at the pools, making it a perfect activity to combine with a refreshing swim.

* Ngare Ndare Eco-tourism Day Trip Package (High School Student) – 500 Kenya Shillings
* Ngare Ndare Eco-tourism Day Trip Package (Primary School Pupil) – 300 Kenya Shillings
* Ngare Ndare Eco-tourism Day Trip Package (Local Group of more than 10 guests) – 15,000 Kenya Shillings

* Ngare Ndare Eco-tourism Camping Per Night (High School Student) – 700 Kenya Shillings
* Ngare Ndare Eco-tourism Camping Per Night (Primary School Pupil) – 500 Kenya Shillings
* Ngare Ndare Eco-tourism Camping Per Night (Local Group of more than 10 guests) – 20,000 Kenya Shillings

Notes

* Do not feed wild animals
* Single-use plastic bottles are not allowed
* Take all the litter that you brought away with you
* Be careful as animals here are wild and can be dangerous
* Stop to allow wildlife to move off the tracks before you pass
* Do not mark or deface tree stems, stones, and other features
* Keep to the designated tracks and paths when walking or driving
* Do not take away animals, animal products, plants, or plant parts
* All forest walks and overnight camping MUST be accompanied by an armed ranger
* Do not start fires in the forest, unless when camping, only at designated areas for bonfire
* Avoid noise as it disturbs both wildlife and other visitors. Do not exceed 40kph when driving in the forest
* Wear comfortable walking shoes or trainers and loose-fitting lightweight clothing. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen may also come in handy. It is also important to carry drinking water, binoculars, a camera, and wildlife books, especially for birds in addition to picnic and camping equipment in case one intends to stay overnight.

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