Hidden gems to consider during Easter holiday tours in Kenya

Kenya offers amazing natural beauty and cultural experiences that many travellers do not know about.

From lush forests to waterfalls and scenic forest pools, the region has hidden gems you can explore on a weekend or holiday trip.

Below are some top destinations in Kiambu, Murang’a, Nyeri, Nyandarua and Laikipia with location details and travel tips you can use when planning your trip, especially during Easter Holiday celebretions.

Paradise Lost in Kiambu

Located along the Nairobi – Kiambu Road, Paradise Lost is a lush garden and forest destination with waterfalls, nature trails, picnic areas and cool river scenery.

It is about 20 km from Nairobi and can be accessed by turning off the main road near Kiambu town and following signposts to the park.

This place is ideal if you want a relaxing nature escape with shaded trails and birdlife to enjoy. 

Chania Falls in Kiambu

Chania Falls sits off the Thika Freeway near Blue Post Hotel in Thika.

The waterfall comes from the Aberdare Range and offers a quiet picnic spot with steep rocky views and cool flowing water.

To reach it, take the Thika Road (A2) from Nairobi and exit at Thika town, then follow local signs to Chania Forest. It is perfect for nature photos and short hikes. 

Karura Forest in Kiambu

Karura Forest covers over 1 000 acres near Kiambu County along the Nairobi – Nakuru Highway.

It has walking paths, picnic sites, waterfalls and birdwatching areas. To get there, drive from Nairobi along the Nakuru Highway and use the Karura Forest road turnoff just past Kiambu town.

This forest is calm and safe for short hikes, cycling or birding. One can also use the Kiambu Road.

Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park in Murang’a

Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park lies in Murang’a County off the Thika-Garissa Road about 70 km northeast of Nairobi.

Highlighted by Ol Donyo Sabuk Mountain, this park offers gentle hiking trails, wildlife sightings including buffalo and buck, and scenic vistas of rolling hills and forests.

It is less busy than larger parks and great for a peaceful nature adventure. 

Gatanga and Waterfalls in Murang’a

Murang’a County itself has many scenic spots in Gatanga, Kandara and Mathioya areas.

Here you will find rivers, tea farms, rolling hills and waterfalls such as Kamachago Waterfall in Kimakia Forest.

These destinations are accessible via the Gatanga – Kigumo road network inland from the Murang’a – Maragua Highway. Locals often refer to this area as one of the best rural escapes for picnics and hikes. 

Karuru Falls in Nyeri

Karuru Falls is one of Kenya’s tallest waterfalls at over 270 m high located inside the Aberdare National Park in Nyeri County.

To get there, use the Nyeri – Nanyuki Road and enter the Aberdare ranges. A local ranger or guide is recommended due to the rugged forest terrain.

The waterfall hike rewards you with stunning jungle views and cool mist. 

Wajee Nature Park in Nyeri

Wajee Nature Park lies just outside Nyeri town and is perfect for birdwatching, picnics or quiet forest walks.

To reach the park, follow the signs from Nyeri town centre towards Othaya Road.

Its calm trails and small lake give you a peaceful outdoor experience near the main urban area. 

Ngare Ndare Forest near Nanyuki

Just outside Nanyuki town in Laikipia, Ngare Ndare Forest is a forest of fig and indigenous trees with blue rock pools and a raised canopy walkway over the treetops.

You can access it from the Nanyuki – Meru Road by heading towards Naro Moru, then following signs to the forest entrance.

Here you can hike, swim in the natural pools and enjoy birdwatching. 

Solio Game Reserve near Naro Moru

Near Naro Moru, which is about 22 km from Nanyuki town on the Nyeri – Nanyuki Road, Solio Game Reserve is a private rhino sanctuary where you can see black rhinos and other wildlife up close with fewer crowds compared to bigger parks.

Guided game drives from local operators make this a calm wildlife experience. 

Tips for travelling to these hidden gems

• Most sites are reachable by private car from Nairobi through the Thika or Nairobi – Nakuru highways and then local turnoffs.
• Forest and mountain locations are best visited with proper walking shoes, water and light snacks.
• Some places like Karuru Falls and Solio Reserve may need a park ranger or guide for safety.
• Respect local property, wildlife and conservation rules, especially in forest reserves and parks.

More Articles

---