Basic Information

Venue Name: Karura Forest

Tagline: “Nairobi’s Hidden Green Oasis”

Secondary Tagline: “One of the largest urban forests in the world”

Type: Urban Forest Reserve & Recreational Venue

Property Size: 1,041 hectares (2,570 acres) – Second largest urban forest globally

Established: Gazetted in 1932

Management: Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and Friends of Karura Forest Community Forest Association

Dining & Restaurants

1 On-Site Restaurant:

River Café: Al fresco, all-day dining restaurant

Location: Near main entrance on Limuru Road, across from Belgian Embassy

Features: Panoramic forest views with wide, open spaces and high ceilings

Cuisine: Menu utilizing Kenya’s excellent produce, organic salads, fresh juices, coffee, and local dishes

Atmosphere: Welcoming and straightforward in serene natural setting

Seating: Raised platform overlooking trees, open-air dining

Key Features & Amenities

Recreation & Wellness

Over 50 km of scenic nature trails for walking, running and cycling

5 designated picnic areas (Amani, KFEET, Ruaka, Sigiria, and Karura Garden)

Tennis courts at KFEET Centre (daily 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

Football pitch at KFEET

Bicycle rental facilities (KES 500 per 2 hours)

Well-marked trails catering to all fitness levels

Green Samsung benches throughout the forest for relaxation

Natural Attractions

Karura Waterfall: Stunning waterfall, especially vibrant during rainy season

Ruaka Waterfall: Second beautiful waterfall in the forest

Mau Mau Caves: Historical caves used as hideouts during Kenya’s independence struggle

Bamboo Forest: Native Arundinaria alpina bamboo groves

Lily Lake: Former stone mining pond, popular for birdwatching

Butterfly Lake: Scenic lake attracting diverse butterfly species

Central Bank Chimney: Historical site where old currency was burned

Wildlife & Biodiversity

Over 200 bird species including migratory species from Europe and Asia

Small mammals: Syke’s monkeys, bush babies, suni, Harvey’s duikers, bushbucks

Bush pigs, genets, civets, honey badgers, porcupines, bush squirrels, hares, fruit bats

Reptiles: Monitor lizards, green snakes, pythons

36% indigenous upland forest tree species

Rich flora including indigenous trees and exotic plantations

Business Facilities

Karura Forest Environmental Education Trust (KFEET) Centre

Environmental education facilities

Tour guiding services available

Event spaces for team-building activities

Corporate membership programs available

Additional Services

Electric fencing for security

Clean restroom facilities

Security personnel and surveillance

Well-marked trails with distance markers

Eco-tour booking services

Photography permitted

Map and guidebook sales at gates

Event Types

Private Events: Picnics, team-building activities, and private gatherings

Weddings: Outdoor wedding ceremonies in natural settings

Corporate Events: Team-building activities and corporate retreats

Educational Tours: School groups and environmental education programs

Sports Events: Running events, cycling competitions, tennis tournaments

Conservation Activities: Tree planting, environmental education, trail maintenance

Photography Sessions: Wedding shoots, family portraits, nature photography

Unique Selling Points

Second largest urban forest in the world (after Tijuca Forest in Rio de Janeiro)

One of the largest gazetted forests fully within city limits globally

TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence recipient (2014-15)

Listed as #4 out of 101 Things To Do in Nairobi

Protected by Nobel Laureate Wangari Maathai’s conservation efforts

Plastic-free environmental zone

Safe urban oasis with no dangerous predators

Historical significance tied to Kenya’s independence struggle

Successful reforestation and community-driven conservation model

Guest Experience Highlights

“Tranquil sanctuary offering refreshing escape from the city’s fast pace”

“Well-maintained trails ideal for walking, running, or cycling”

“The sight and sound of cascading water amidst the greenery were mesmerizing”

“Facilities are excellent, with clean restrooms and well-marked trails”

“Security is commendable, ensuring a safe experience for all visitors”

“Perfect place for a run, romantic walk or ride on your bike”

“Great way to remove yourself from the busy city and walk through nature”

“Outstanding natural environment for connecting with nature”

Location Benefits

Located in prestigious northern Nairobi area

Borders upmarket suburbs: Muthaiga, Gigiri, Runda, Ridgeways, New Muthaiga

Adjacent to United Nations Office at Nairobi and UNEP headquarters

15-20 minutes from Nairobi CBD

Easy access via major roads (Limuru Road, Kiambu Road)

Close to diplomatic missions and international organizations

Accessibility Features

6 entrance gates (5 open to public)

Wheelchair accessible areas

Well-marked trails with distance indicators

Multiple transportation options (matatu, taxi, ride-hailing apps)

Ample parking at all main gates

Trail maps and guidebooks available

Safety measures including electric fencing and security personnel

Awards & Recognition

TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence (2014-15)

Ranked #4 of 101 Things To Do in Nairobi

Second largest urban forest globally

Model for urban conservation in Africa

16,000+ monthly visitors

Symbol of successful environmental conservation