Nanyuki, Laikipia’s capital is the gateway to Mt Kenya and a perfect base to explore the various touristic experiences especially the numerous conservancies and protected forests like the Ngare Ndare forest. The spectacular and varied scenery provides the perfect backdrop for a helicopter excursion.
Here is a list of pocket-friendly places to unwind and savour Nanyuki’s charm.
1.Soames Hotel and Jacks Bar
Soames Hotel and Jacks Bar is located 7 kilometres from Nanyuki town on the Nanyuki-Naro-Moru highway. This hotel has 12 double ensuite rooms in 6 cottages. Each room boasts a deck where you can relax and enjoy the garden views as well as the peaks of Mt Kenya. Dining at this facility guarantees a homemade appeal with cuisines from all over the world. Wind the day down at Jack’s Bar with freshly brewed coffee and alcoholic beverages from their extensive selection.
Cost: From Sh8,000 – 17,600
2. El Karama eco-Lodge
If your idea of getting away is to enjoy nature, then this is the place for you. The award-winning eco-lodge is set on 14,000 acres of private land. They are invested in preserving the wildlife, birds, insects, plants and trees in the area. There are 6 accommodation options each varying in size and style. You can choose to stay in the Bandas, Rondavel, Hobbit House or the Little River Camp.
Due to their commitment to preserving the environment, the lodge runs on solar power. They use locally-grown ingredients from their garden and locally-sourced meat for their food. If you have special diet requests, this information will be needed as you make your reservation. They have a fully-stocked bar.
Cost: From Sh15,000-18,500
3. Spice Garden
Three things best define this property, which lies on the equator with a backdrop of Mt Kenya: space, nature, and tranquillity. Take your pick from the furnished tents and wooden huts on offer or pitch your own tent. Spice Garden offers a fully-fledged kitchen with a diverse menu but special arrangements can be made for you to have a cookout. Excursions can be arranged for those who would like to indulge in activities outside the facility.
Cost: From Sh7,000 – 9,600
4. One-Stop Nanyuki
You will find this little gem on the Nanyuki-Nairobi highway opposite the Nanyuki airstrip. This convenient overnight-stop is like a self-reliant community with everything a traveller could need. Shop, dine, pamper yourself and sleep. The Shepherd Huts at One-Stop is based on traditional English design and can accommodate up to three people. There is a double and a single bed in each of the huts and enough space for you to pitch a tent. You can eat at Little Barney’s restaurant located inside the facility. The facility is currently working on restoring a three-bedroom 106-year-old wooden house that was rescued from destruction in Parklands Nairobi.
Cost: From Sh5,500-6,000
5. Kongoni Camp
Situated 22 kilometres from Mt Kenya National Park Kongoni Camp offers standard rooms, five traditional round huts, and a fully self-contained cottage. Kongoni Camp is famous for its homemade pizzas cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven and their tender steaks. The facility has an extensive menu ranging from grills, vegetarian dishes to homemade bread and cakes. They pride themselves in using fresh local ingredients. There is a natural tented spa set on the grounds and a heated pool.
Cost: From Sh8,000-19,000
6. The Old House
This family-owned business has been in existence since 1995. The facility has 38 rooms hosted in villas christened ‘The Villager’, ‘Explorer’ and ‘Local’. With 20 acres of land to spare, The Old House also offers camping conveniences and grounds for hire. They have conferencing and grounds to hire options at the facility. Enjoy leisurely nature walks on this riverfront facility before savouring the authentic menu.
Cost: From Sh4,000
7. Ragati Lodge
Ragati Lodge is located 5 kilometres from Nanyuki’s CBD and offers a range of accommodation options including cottages, bandas, and a camping site. The bandas are ideal for backpackers and can accommodate up to nine guests. The cottages are ensuite and can accommodate up to four guests. The hotel serves an à la carte menu and offers self-catering facilities as well as a well-stocked bar. There is a central fireplace where guests can relax at night. At the lodge, enjoy game drives, fly fishing, mountain biking, forest walks or simply take a walk by the river.
Cost: From Sh1,500-6,000
8. Le Rustique
Located 800 meters from Nanyuki Sports Club is this offering of luxury cottages at a reasonable budget. The spacious rooms are well-equipped for professionals, lone travellers, couples and families. They have a fitness studio and a spa for your relaxation needs. Le Rustique pride themselves in being food connoisseurs offering the best Mediterranean cuisine in Nanyuki.
Cost: From Sh9,500-13,000
9. Storms resort
This is an eco-friendly camp set along the Nanyuki River, 16 kilometres out of Nanyuki town. The hospitality facility has three and two-bedroomed cottages, 17 spacious permanent rooms, 4 exclusive tents, and 6 luxury mud-thatched rooms. Of note is their African-themed dining area that claims to serve the best beef cuts. You can also rent a bike
from the facility and explore the region.
Cost: From Sh8,000-15,000
