At a glance
- Best for
- Rhinos, conservancy safaris, hiking, cool-weather breaks
- Getting there
- About three to four hours by road, or a short flight
- Time needed
- Two to four nights
- Base yourself
- Nanyuki town, the conservancies of Laikipia, or the mountain slopes
Getting there
Nanyuki is roughly 200 kilometres (125 miles) north of Nairobi, usually three to four hours by road. The route follows the Thika Superhighway out of the city, then good tarmac through the farmland and market towns of central Kenya, with the mountain growing ahead of you on a clear day. Light aircraft also fly to Nanyuki from Wilson Airport in Nairobi, which is handy if you are linking Laikipia with the Maasai Mara or the coast.
A chauffeur-driven 4x4 from our sister company, Urban Escape Luxury Cars, is a comfortable way to make the drive, with stops wherever you like. Their guide to self-drive or chauffeur helps you decide which suits you.
When to go
The drier months, roughly January to February and June to October, are best for walking, hiking and game viewing. The long rains usually fall around March to May, and the short rains around November. Whatever the season, remember the altitude: days can be warm and bright, but mornings and nights are cold. Pack a fleece and a warm jacket.
What to do
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy: a large conservancy close to Nanyuki, known for its rhino conservation work and its chimpanzee sanctuary. Check current conservancy fees and visiting rules before you go.
- Laikipia conservancies: private and community conservancies across the plateau, with elephants, reticulated giraffes, Grevy's zebras and big cats, and far fewer vehicles than the busiest parks.
- Mount Kenya National Park: day walks on the lower slopes, or a multi-day trek towards Point Lenana, the trekkers' summit. Trek with a registered guide, go slowly, and take altitude sickness seriously.
- The Equator: stop at the sign on the edge of town for the photo.
- Trout fishing, horse riding and forest walks on the mountain's lower slopes.
Game drives
Conservancies set their own rules about which vehicles may enter and where you may drive. Only the Land Cruiser Safari from Urban Escape Luxury Cars may be used on game drives; with any other car, drive to your lodge or the conservancy gate and join a guided game drive.
Where to base yourself
- Nanyuki town: convenient, with cafés, supermarkets and practical stays, and easy access to Ol Pejeta.
- The Laikipia conservancies: remote lodges and tented camps with guided activities included, for a full safari feel.
- The mountain slopes: cabins and lodges in the forest, for hikers and anyone who wants cool, quiet air.
Stays range from simple and practical to very special. Ask us for our current, personally vetted picks.
With children
Nanyuki works well for families who want wildlife without very long drives. Many conservancy stays offer activities for children, though some set minimum ages for walking safaris. Bring warm clothes for the evenings; children feel the cold at altitude quickly.
Staying safe
Nanyuki is a relaxed town. The main risks are on the road and the mountain: avoid driving at night, when unlit roads, people walking and livestock make driving harder, and never trek on Mount Kenya without a registered guide. Sunburn comes fast at altitude, even when it feels cool.
Ready to plan?
Tell us whether you're coming for rhinos, hiking or a quiet few days, and we'll shape the trip. Plan your trip with us, or read our guide to getting around Kenya.
Transport by our sister company, Urban Escape Luxury Cars.
Questions about Nanyuki & Mount Kenya
How far is Nanyuki from Nairobi?
Roughly 200 kilometres, usually three to four hours by road. Light aircraft from Wilson Airport also fly to Nanyuki.
Do I need a guide to climb Mount Kenya?
Yes, trek with a registered guide. The mountain is high enough for altitude sickness to be a real risk, and a good guide sets a safe pace and knows the routes and weather.
Is it cold in Nanyuki?
Days are often warm and bright, but mornings and nights are cold because of the altitude. Pack a fleece and a warm jacket whatever the season.
Facts checked . Fees, schedules and entry rules change, so always confirm the latest with the official source.
