Ngare Ndare Forest: Canopy Walk, Waterfalls and Blue Pools

Ngare Ndare Forest Ngare Ndare Forest is a community-conserved indigenous forest and wildlife corridor. It is located between the towns of Nanyuki and Isiolo, making it accessible as a day trip from either location.

The main attractions at Ngare Ndare are its acclaimed canopy walk and the stunning waterfalls and pools hidden within the forest. These features offer a unique combination of adventure and natural beauty, allowing visitors to experience the environment from high in the trees and swim in crystal-clear blue water.

The Thrill of the Ngare Ndare Canopy Walk

The Ngare Ndare canopy walk is a major highlight for visitors. It is a suspended bridge, approximately 450 meters long, that hangs about 10 meters above the forest floor.

This walkway offers a unique perspective, allowing you to walk among the treetops and look down upon the river and wildlife below. The structure is built from wire mesh and cables, providing a secure but exhilarating experience as it sways gently with movement.

From this elevated viewpoint, visitors often spot colobus monkeys, various bird species, and occasionally elephants or other large mammals moving through the forest below.

The walk culminates in a sturdy wooden viewing deck built around a large tree, which is an excellent spot for picnics and game viewing. The entire experience provides an unmatched aerial view of the forest canopy.

The Azure Pools and Waterfalls of Ngare Ndare

Beyond the canopy walk, Ngare Ndare is famous for its stunningly beautiful waterfalls and clear, blue-water pools. These natural swimming holes are a major draw, providing a refreshing and picturesque reward after a forest hike.

The water is known for its striking azure color, which comes from the mineral-rich springs that feed the pools.

A guided hike is required to reach the pools, typically taking visitors along a trail that follows the river. The main attraction is a large pool fed by a powerful waterfall, where visitors can swim and dive from the surrounding rock ledges.

The water is exceptionally cold, as it originates from the glaciers of Mount Kenya, making for an invigorating swim. There are several smaller pools and waterfalls along the river, each offering a tranquil and scenic spot to relax and enjoy the natural environment.

Ngare Ndare Forest Entrance Fees and Costs

All visitors must pay an entrance fee at the main gate. These fees are a critical source of funding for the Ngare Ndare Forest Trust and directly support the conservation of the forest and contribute to the local community projects.

The costs are structured based on residency status and are inclusive of the mandatory guide service. It is always a good practice to confirm the current rates before your visit, as they can change. The forest operates a cashless payment system, so visitors should be prepared to pay with mobile money (M-Pesa) or by card.

The standard conservation fees are as follows:

Planning Your Visit to the Canopy Walk and Waterfalls

A trip to experience the Ngare Ndare canopy walk and waterfalls requires some planning. All visits must be accompanied by a trained and armed guide, which is arranged at the forest's main gate upon arrival.

This is a mandatory safety measure due to the presence of wildlife, including elephants and buffalo.

What to Bring and What to Expect

Visitors should come prepared for physical activity. Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are essential for the trails, which can be uneven. For those planning to swim, bringing a swimsuit and towel is a must. It is also wise to carry drinking water and snacks, especially since there are no shops within the forest. 

The hike to the main waterfall and pool can take around 45 minutes to an hour from the canopy walk area.

Other Activities at Ngare Ndare

While the canopy walk and waterfalls are the main draws, your visit to Ngare Ndare includes several other activities that are part of the guided experience. These activities are integrated into your tour of the forest.

• Guided Hiking: All tours within the forest are conducted as guided hikes. Knowledgeable local guides lead visitors on the trails, pointing out animal tracks, native plants, and bird species. The hike to the waterfalls is an essential part of the adventure, immersing you in the forest environment.
• Swimming: The crystal-clear azure pools are one of the most popular features of the forest. Visitors can swim in the refreshingly cold water, which originates from Mount Kenya's glaciers. The main pool, fed by a waterfall, is a deep and popular spot for a dip.
• Wildlife Viewing: The forest is a vital wildlife corridor, offering good opportunities for spotting animals. The large wooden deck at the end of the canopy walk is a prime location for this, as it overlooks a waterhole frequently visited by elephants, bushbucks, and monkeys.
• Picnicking: The viewing platform at the end of the canopy walk is an ideal spot for a picnic. Visitors can bring their own lunch and enjoy it while taking in the panoramic views of the forest canopy and watching for any wildlife that may appear below.
• Bird Watching: With over two hundred bird species recorded, Ngare Ndare is an excellent location for bird enthusiasts. Guides can help identify various birds by their calls and plumage during the forest walk.

How to Get to Ngare Ndare

The primary access is via the main A2 highway that connects Nairobi to Isiolo. From Nanyuki, the drive to the turnoff is approximately 45 minutes. From the turnoff, visitors must navigate a well-signposted dirt road for several kilometers to reach the main gate.

The condition of this road can vary, and while it is often passable for saloon cars in the dry season, a vehicle with higher clearance or a 4x4 is strongly recommended, especially during the rainy months. Clear signage directs drivers to the official entrance where guides and tickets are arranged.

Best Time to Visit Ngare Ndare

Ngare Ndare Forest is open to visitors throughout the year, but the experience can vary significantly depending on the season. The weather affects road conditions, trail safety, and the overall enjoyment of the activities available.

The best time to visit is during the two dry seasons, from June to October and from January to March. During these months, the access road to the forest is in its best condition, making it more accessible for all types of vehicles.

The hiking trails are dry and less slippery, which makes the walk to the waterfalls safer and more pleasant. The weather is generally sunny and warm, which is ideal for picnicking on the canopy platform and for braving the cold, refreshing water of the azure pools. Wildlife is also often easier to spot around water sources during dry periods.

Visiting during the rainy seasons, from April to May (the long rains) and November to December (the short rains), is possible but presents more challenges. The access road can become extremely muddy and may be impassable for vehicles without four-wheel drive.

The forest trails will be wet and slippery, requiring extra caution. While the waterfalls will be at their most powerful and the forest is lush and green, swimming may be less appealing due to the colder weather. If you plan to visit during these months, a 4x4 vehicle is essential, and you should be prepared for wet conditions.

Accommodation Near Ngare Ndare Forest

There are no lodges or campsites located within Ngare Ndare Forest itself. Visitors must find accommodation in the surrounding towns and private conservancies. The most convenient and popular bases for a day trip to the forest are Nanyuki, Timau, and the luxury lodges on the greater Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.

The choice of accommodation varies widely to suit different budgets and preferences.

• Luxury Lodges: The areas surrounding Ngare Ndare, particularly within the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy and other private ranches, are home to some of Kenya's most exclusive safari lodges. These establishments offer high-end, all-inclusive experiences that often include guided tours to the forest as part of their activity packages.
• Hotels and Guesthouses: The town of Nanyuki, located about an hour's drive away, offers a wide range of mid-range hotels, guesthouses, and country clubs. These provide comfortable and reliable lodging for families, couples, and solo travelers.
• Self-Catering and Airbnbs: For those seeking more independence, Nanyuki and its environs have a growing number of self-catering cottages, chalets, and private Airbnbs. These options are ideal for groups and families who prefer to manage their own meals and schedules.
• Budget Options: Nanyuki also provides several budget-friendly guesthouses and hotels that offer basic, clean, and affordable accommodation for travelers.

Booking your accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially if you plan to travel during the peak tourist seasons from June to October and December to March.

Travel Experience of Ngare Ndare

A visit to Ngare Ndare Forest offers a unique and memorable adventure that stands out from the traditional Kenyan safari. The experience is defined by its two main attractions: the exhilarating 450-meter-long canopy walkway high above the forest floor and the stunningly clear, azure-colored pools and waterfalls.

 It is a perfect blend of thrill-seeking and serene natural beauty. The journey is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself, with guided hikes through a vital wildlife corridor that is crucial for the migration of elephants.

By visiting, you are not only enjoying a remarkable day out but also directly contributing to a successful community-led conservation project. The fees you pay help protect this critical ecosystem and support the livelihoods of the local people.

For anyone staying in the Mount Kenya or Laikipia region, a day trip to Ngare Ndare is an essential and highly rewarding experience.