Ngare Ndare Forest, located in Kenya's Meru County, is a lush indigenous forest at the base of Mount Kenya that serves as a crucial ecological corridor linking the Mount Kenya Forest Reserve and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. This corridor, which includes a specially designed elephant underpass, allows free movement of wildlife—particularly elephants—between the two habitats. The forest plays a vital role in protecting regional water sources, with the Ngare Ndare River flowing through its terrain, sustaining both biodiversity and nearby communities. Over 200 bird species, colobus monkeys, and large mammals inhabit the area, contributing to its ecological richness.
Visitors to Ngare Ndare Forest can explore its elevated 450-meter canopy walkway—the longest in East Africa—for a unique vantage point on the forest's wildlife and tree cover. The forest also features clear blue pools fed by waterfalls, where swimming is permitted under guided supervision. Managed by the Ngare Ndare Forest Trust since 2004, the preserve is not only focused on conservation but also community benefit, supporting initiatives like tree planting, biogas programs, and tourism-linked livelihoods. The name "Ngare Ndare" derives from the Maasai language, meaning "water for the goats", though it is sometimes poetically interpreted as "waterfall of the gods".
It was amazing, carry ur swimming costumes for the pool n learn to swim before the visit. I missed out on that, am going back just so as I get to the water fall. Call the place to know when the water is blue to get the best experience 💙
Andrew Muriuki
5
Reviewed: 2024-10-25
Loved the nature hike to the waterfalls and pools. Tested my fitness levels quite a bit. We didn't see get to see a variety of animals, only a couple of elephants. The pools were excellent, and I loved how clean and blue the water was.
Bruno Bahati
4
Reviewed: 2024-08-04
The dense forest clears the dense mind,
The jovial guards protects even your darkest mind,
The birds chipping sends across the melody of nature,
You get in heavy and leave light.
Perfect spot for a nature walk! 👌
Benedict Mwangi
5
Reviewed: 2024-06-13
An amazing place.
Great canopy walk.
The elephants so close, you can almost say hello to them.
A good place for a weekend off to get away from the noisy cities.
Kirsty Slane-Davidge
5
Reviewed: 2024-05-20
Wonderful night spent camping. Fantastic, knowledgeable Ranger who took us to the waterfall and helped us find giraffes and elephants. The views from the metal bridge are just stunning and we were able to toast marshmallows on our own fire