Tours & tickets

Karura Forest

Kibera slum is located in Nairobi, about 6.6 kilometres (4.1 miles) from the City Centre. It is the largest slum in Africa, and one of the largest in the world. We are a team of 4 local guides; ERICK, SAMUEL, BENTA and JACK. We were all born, raised and still live here in Kibera Community. We have first-hand insights into the authentic daily life in the Kibera neighborhood. This tour enables our guests to learn more about the local community's way of life and the history of Kibera slum. The income generated from the booking fees, helps us in paying school fees for orphans and vulnerable kids and funding many other social projects here in Kibera slum. We run a social impact tour business called OAC Kenya Tours (www.oackenya.weebly.com). It is a vehicle for positive change. Join us in our journey towards social impact, where every booking you make helps to uplift and support orphans and vulnerable children. 50% of the booking fees from this tour goes back to the community. We also run a non-profit called KCOOP Organization which was founded and registered in 2022. Our organization operates here in Kibera slums and in rural parts of Kenya. The programs of KCOOP Organization include; 1. After school Program 2. Education Program 3. Combating Child Hunger 4. Empowerment Through Arts and Sports 5. Community Outreach Instagram: @kcoop.organization, Facebook: @kcoop.organization, YouTube: @kcoop.organization We are now seeking for like minded individuals, organizations or enterprises for partnership to enable us help more needy kids. ITINERARY FOR THIS EXPERIENCE >This tour takes 3 hours, but we can make it longer or shorter depending on your interest. >The meeting point is inside PRESTIGE PLAZA SHOPPING MALL, Ngong Road. After meeting up, we then take a taxi to the first stop which is our office. This tour has 5 stops as follows; 1. Our Office We will first welcome you to our office here in the slum for more introductions & briefing about the entire experience. The office has free Wi-Fi 2. Home Visit The second stop which is the main stop is home Visit where we will welcome you inside one of the residential houses here in the slum to let you learn more about our way of life like how we get water, electricity, bathroom system, typical house size and so on. 3. Handicrafts Centre You will witness how locals recycle materials to make jewelry and other handmade items. 4. KCOOP Children's Centre We run this Children's Centre and it serves orphans and vulnerable kids. 5. CURIO SHOP Explore a variety of handmade African crafts and souvenirs—offered at fair, regular, transparent, and fixed prices. Every item is clearly marked with a price tag. No bargaining, no inflated prices—just honest value. You can preview some of our products and prices on Instagram: @oac.kenya.crafts OAC KENYA CRAFTS is a social enterprise established to create economic opportunities for local artisans and to generate income that supports needy kids in Kibera

Most tourists shy from walking through most cities in Africa due to the security scare widely advertised about Africa. While security levels might be debatable and relative in different cities in the world, this tour provides enhanced security as you enjoy the sceneries of Nairobi from the comfort of an enclosed air-conditioned bus/van. We either pick you from your hotel or organise transport for you to meet us at the starting point where we board the bus/van. With you in the bus is a knowledgable guide to tell you all about the city and the culture and to deal with any eventuality. While most people are curious to know about downtown Nairobi, this tour covers this part of Nairobi. Incase you wish to buy souvenirs, we take you to a fixed price store for those who are not skilled in bargaining. Depending on traffic, we also pass through Kariokor market where most souvenirs are made from scratch. We take a break and ascend to KICC where you not only get to enjoy the nice breeze of Nairobi but also view the skyline of Nairobi highlighting places like Parliament building, Karura forest, Uppehill, Eastlands, Westlands, Nairobi National Park and others. KICC has amenities like clean washrooms, ATMs, sitting area and a cafe. For those with physical challenges, this is an ideal tour as you do not strain as in the case of a walking tour. After the tour, we either drop you back or organize transport for you back to your hotel depending on the distances from each other of persons sharing the tour.

Explore the natural beauty of Karura Forest on a guided walking tour. Discover the forest's waterfalls, caves, and wildlife, and take a thrilling canopy walk. Enjoy a picnic in the forest and take in the stunning views. Meet your guide at the International House on Mama Ngina Street in Nairobi. Then, take a 15-minute Uber ride to Karura Forest. Upon arrival, embark on a guided walking tour of the forest. Admire the forest's stunning waterfalls, including the Karura Falls. Explore the forest's caves, which were used as hideouts during the Mau Mau uprising in the 1950s. Keep an eye out for the forest's diverse wildlife, including monkeys, bushbucks, and various bird species. For the more adventurous visitors, take a thrilling canopy walk that takes you high up into the treetops. Enjoy a packed lunch or snack at one of the forest's designated picnic areas. After your tour, take an Uber back to the International House.

Explore the Karura Forest on a horseback riding tour from the Sigiria Gate. Ride through the forest, passing rivers, ponds, and the chance to see local wildlife. Meet your guide at the Sigiria Gate and get to know your horse before setting off on your adventure. Ride through the forest, passing rivers, ponds, and on occasion, see animals within the forest including bushbucks, Duiker, Genet Cats, Civets, Bush babies, Porcupines, Syke’s Monkeys, Squirrels, and Hares. If you are an experienced rider, you can canter or gallop on designated paths of this route. If you are an inexperienced rider, a guide will hold the horse for you. Entry ticket to the forest 100-400ksh depending on your status in the country e.g citizens 100ksh After your ride, return to the Sigiria Gate where your tour concludes.

Nestled within Nairobi's bustling urban landscape lies Karura Forest, a sprawling sanctuary of tranquility and natural beauty awaiting exploration. As you embark on your journey through its verdant trails, you'll find yourself enveloped in a world of lush greenery, towering trees, and the melodic symphony of bird songs. Begin your adventure by immersing yourself in the forest's rich biodiversity, where every turn unveils a new wonder to behold. Traverse the winding paths that lead you deep into the heart of Karura, where ancient trees stand sentinel, their gnarled roots intertwining with the earth below. Along the way, discover hidden treasures tucked away amidst the foliage. Marvel at the sight of cascading waterfalls, their crystal-clear waters glistening in the dappled sunlight. Pause to explore ancient caves, their moss-covered walls whispering tales of bygone eras and forgotten secrets. As you wander deeper into the forest, keep your senses attuned to the vibrant wildlife that calls Karura home. Catch glimpses of colorful butterflies flitting among the flowers, while monkeys swing gracefully through the treetops overhead. With each step, you'll feel a profound connection to the natural world, as if the forest itself is alive and pulsing with energy. For the adventurous at heart, Karura offers a plethora of activities to satisfy your craving for exploration. Test your skills on rugged mountain biking trails, or embark on a serene horseback ride through the forest's enchanting glades. For those seeking solitude and reflection, secluded picnic spots offer the perfect retreat to unwind and recharge amidst nature's embrace. But perhaps the true magic of Karura lies in its ability to inspire and uplift the human spirit. As you meander through its sun-dappled groves and tranquil meadows, you'll find a sense of peace and serenity that transcends the chaos of the outside world. Here, amidst the rustling leaves and gentle whispers of the wind, you'll rediscover the simple joys of being alive. As your journey through Karura Forest draws to a close, take a moment to reflect on the wonders you've witnessed and the memories you've made. Whether you're a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor, Karura's timeless beauty leaves an indelible mark on the soul, reminding us of the profound interconnectedness of all living things. So come, lose yourself in the magic of Karura Forest, where every step is a journey of discovery and every moment is a gift to cherish.

Join me on an adventure in the best forest in Nairobi. Explore the forest on foot and enjoy interacting with nature and wildlife while taking amazing pictures and learning historical facts and monkey behaviour. Visit the historical caves, two different waterfalls, the woodlands, nature trails, bird territories, waterways and rapids during the rainy seasons, Lilly Lake, picnic zones, monkey territories, The River Cafe, and many more. This is the best way to enjoy the peace that comes with nature and wildlife. Its also a good way to make eternal memories. Put on your walking shoes and come with me.

Your expert local city guide will show you the city's best parts, including many hidden secrets you can’t find easily on your own. On this walking tour will be able to see a lot of sightseeing points within a short timeframe. Apart from explaining the sightseeing points your guide can provide insight into the history and culture of the city and the country in general. The focus of this tour is to see the city like a local. However, this private tour can be customised according to your wishes. Sightseeing points to visit can be agreed upon in advance or discussed when meeting up. STANDARD sightseeing places we can easily visit during the tour are: • Nairobi CBD: Explore the CBD with major buildings such as the Parliament, The Office of the President, The old Railway Station, Kenya International Conference Center (KICC), Kenya National Archives, The Jamia Mosque, and The August 7th Bomb blast monument. • Nairobi Arboretum: park with shaded walkways, picnic lawns and jogging trails • National Museums of Kenya: Various sections covering East African History, Palaeontology, Archaeology, Ethnography & biodiversity research & conservation. • Giraffe Centre: Giraffe conservation & breeding center with feeding platforms & a 38-acre forested nature park • Nairobi National Park: Situated just 10 km from the city center this park is a haven for a variety of wildlife such as lions, gazelles, buffaloes, warthogs, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes and also a rhino sanctuary. • Elephant Nursery: Rescue & rehab center for orphaned elephants, open to the public for viewing mud baths & feedings. Some examples of HIDDEN SECRETS we can visit: • Kilimani district: Check out one of the best districts in the city where the rich reside with trendy cafes and global restaurants. • The Maasai Market: Experience the Maasai culture featuring a wide variety of African artefacts. You can buy paintings, clothes, fabrics with East African prints, jewellery and wood carvings, many hand-made in Kenya by local artisans. • Karura forest: Urban forest with many hiking trails and a waterfall. Great for a walk and enjoy pure nature in the middle of the city. • Bomas of Kenya: An entertainment and a living museum showcasing and celebrating various cultures and tribes of Kenya. • Kazuri Beads Factory: Sells and displays beautifully unique souvenirs and gifts you can buy at a reasonable price. • Karen Blixen Museum: Former African home of Danish author, famous for her 1937 book Out of Africa which chronicles life at the estate. Please note that sightseeing tickets (e.g. museums) and the cost of renting a safari vehicle (necessary e.g.in Nairobi National Park) are not included. Please note that it is not guaranteed to visit all the sightseeing places listed here. How many places you can visit depends on the length of the tour booked and how much time you spend at each place. After booking you can discuss the detailed itinerary with your guide.

Pick up from the hotel, journey through the heart of Nairobi as you Explore Karura Forest, a hidden urban paradise like no other. Welcome to Karura: Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at the forest entrance. Here, you'll meet your knowledgeable guide who will introduce you to the forest's history and biodiversity. During your free tour of Karura Forest, you will have the opportunity to explore some of the most breathtaking spots in the reserve. Here are some of the highlights you can expect to see: Waterfalls: Karura Forest is home to several beautiful waterfalls, including the stunning Karura Falls. Take a hike through the forest to reach these cascading falls and enjoy the cool mist as it sprays over your face. Caves: The forest is home to several caves that were used as hideouts during the Mau Mau uprising in the 1950s. You can explore these caves and learn about their historical significance. Wildlife: Karura Forest is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including monkeys, bushbucks, and a variety of bird species. Keep your eyes peeled as you explore the forest, and you may be lucky enough to spot some of these amazing creatures. Canopy Walk: For the more adventurous visitors, Karura Forest has a thrilling canopy walk that takes you high up into the treetops. From this vantage point, you can enjoy panoramic views of the forest and its surroundings. Karura Walk :Hiking is one of the biggest reasons why Karura forest is Famous in Nairobi city. With its locality, it also has old caves ,rivers,and lakes ,and even pretty valley which are part of of the big history when it comes how Kenyans got Indipendence and ancient inhabitants of this country and their lifestyle. I will explain more of that history on our way in. Picnic Areas: The forest has several designated picnic areas where you can enjoy a packed lunch or snack surrounded by the beauty of nature. Overall, a free tour of Karura Forest is an unforgettable experience that allows you to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of Kenya's wildlife. So, pack your bags, put on your hiking shoes, and get ready for an adventure you'll never forget! Return back to the hotel.

Pick-up from your location starts at 9a.m, Drive to Karura Forest where you get to enjoy the bio-diversity vegetation. Our guide gets to take you through the History of the forest and walk you through it. Get to enjoy the stunning Karura Falls as it is one of the waterfalls inside the forest. Explore the beautiful scenery as mist and clear air fill your lungs. Hiking is the main activity at Karura, enjoy hiking while in Nairobi. Get to admire the great view of this forest as it is filled with rivers, Lots of Bird species, Monkeys and baboons. Don't forget to bring some snacks with you as you will tour the stunning picnic sites in the forest. Generally, a tour of Karura Forest is an unforgettable experience that allows you to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of Kenya's wildlife.

Embark on a transformative journey through the heart of Nairobi as you Explore Karura Forest, a hidden urban paradise like no other. Itinerary: Welcome to Karura: Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at the forest entrance. Here, you'll meet your knowledgeable guide who will introduce you to the forest's history and biodiversity. Canopy Trail Adventure: Stroll along the serene forest trails, shaded by towering trees and lush canopies. Keep your eyes peeled for monkeys, colorful birds, and butterflies that call this place home. Karura Waterfalls: Discover the breathtaking Karura Waterfalls, a hidden gem within the forest. The soothing sound of cascading water, coupled with the vibrant greenery, creates a truly magical atmosphere. Mau Mau Caves: Step back in time as you explore the historic Mau Mau Caves. These caves served as a hideout during Kenya's struggle for independence, and your guide will share captivating stories about this pivotal period in the nation's history. The Fig Tree Circuit: Meander through the towering fig trees as you follow this scenic circuit, offering opportunities for stunning photos and tranquil moments of reflection. Nature's Serenity: Enjoy a picnic lunch amid nature's serenity. You'll savor a delightful meal surrounded by the sights and sounds of the forest, providing a unique, tranquil experience. River Walk and Wildlife: Follow the river's course as you continue your exploration, encountering even more wildlife and marveling at the serene riverbanks. Activity Conclusion: At the end of this unforgettable tour, we'll return you to the forest entrance. From there, you can easily explore more of Nairobi or be conveniently transported back to your hotel, cherishing the memories of your Karura Forest adventure.