Situated on the equator in central Kenya, Nanyuki is a thriving town renowned as a gateway to Mount Kenya and the surrounding wilderness areas. Framed by spectacular views of the mountain’s snow-capped peaks, it serves as a popular base for hikers ascending Mount Kenya via the Sirimon and Burguret routes. The town combines a relaxed atmosphere with a surprising selection of restaurants, including the famous Trout Tree, where diners enjoy fresh trout in a unique setting built around a giant tree. Beyond its mountain appeal, the area provides easy access to some of Kenya’s most celebrated conservation areas, including Mount Kenya National Park, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Samburu National Reserve and Shaba National Reserve. With its blend of outdoor adventure, wildlife encounters and scenic beauty, Nanyuki is an ideal starting point for exploring central Kenya.
Set on the banks of the Ewaso Ng'iro River and neighbouring the Buffalo Springs National Park, Samburu National Reserve is characterised by a spectacular landscape of rugged hills, undulating plains and riverine forests. The park is home to abundant wildlife including a variety of rare species such as the reticulated giraffe, the long-necked gerenuk, Somali ostrich, Grevy's Zebra, and Beisa Oryx. Visitors can also enjoy spotting over 900 elephants, a variety of predators, and over 450 bird species. The ancient culture of the Samburu people is still alive here, and it is possible to see two unique customs firsthand. In the first, watch as herds of cattle respond to each man’s individual voice as they call. In the second, see the tribesmen perform incredible dances that go back hundreds of years.