Ngare Ndare Forest and Ol Jogi Conservancy proved that the best adventures aren’t always the easiest . From crystal-clear blue pools and Kenya’s longest canopy walk of 450M, to close encounters with elephants and unexpected adventures on rough roads, this was a trip we’ll never forget.
Leaving Nakuru Before Sunrise
Our adventure began at exactly 5:00 a.m. at Shell Hyrax in Nakuru. It was still dark when everyone boarded the van, carrying backpacks, snacks, and plenty of excitement.
Well… the excitement didn’t last very long.
Within minutes, most of us had fallen asleep as we cruised along the quiet highway. Every now and then I’d open my eyes to catch glimpses of the sunrise. Watching the first rays of sunlight spread across the hills and open fields reminded me why early morning road trips are always worth it.
The peaceful drive eventually brought us to Nanyuki, where we stopped for breakfast. A hot cup of tea, eggs, sausages, and chapati never tasted so good. After stretching our legs and fueling up, we were finally ready for the adventure we’d been waiting for.
Hiking Through the Beautiful Ngare Ndare Forest
After arriving at Ngare Ndare Forest, we paid the entrance fee, checked in, and began our hike through the lush indigenous forest.
Immediately, the atmosphere changed. Tall trees surrounded us, birds sang from every direction, and cool forest air made every step enjoyable. The hike wasn’t just about reaching the destination,it was about appreciating the peaceful beauty of the forest along the way.
Then we finally reached the famous Ngare Ndare Blue Pools.
Photos online are beautiful, but seeing the pools in person is something else entirely. The water was unbelievably clear, with a deep turquoise colour that looked almost unreal. It felt like we had discovered a hidden paradise tucked away in the forest.
Of course, none of us could resist jumping in.
The water was freezing at first, but after a few seconds, it became one of the most refreshing swims we’ve ever had. We laughed, took photos, floated in the crystal-clear water, and simply enjoyed the moment.
Walking 450 Metres Above the Forest
No visit to Ngare Ndare is complete without experiencing the famous 450-metre canopy walk.
Suspended high above the forest floor, the bridge offers breathtaking views across the treetops. Every step made the bridge sway just enough to keep our hearts racing.
Looking down through the forest canopy while surrounded by endless greenery was both thrilling and peaceful. It was one of those experiences where you stop taking photos for a moment just to appreciate where you are.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot elephants walking below the canopy.
Nyama Choma at the Famous Makutano
After completing the hike and canopy walk, we made our way back to Nanyuki.
By this point, we were starving.
There was only one solution—nyama choma.
We headed to the famous Makutano in Nanyuki, where we enjoyed a late lunch filled with delicious grilled meat, good conversation, and plenty of laughter as we replayed the day’s adventures.
Sometimes the best part of travelling isn’t just the destination,it’s sharing great food with great people afterwards.
A Relaxing Night in Nanyuki
Later that evening, we checked into our Airbnbs to freshen up and rest before meeting friends who were arriving later.
Once everyone had arrived, we headed to HQ ya Marafiki for a fun night out. Good music, great vibes, and even better company made for the perfect ending to an adventurous day.
Still, we called it a night earlier than usual because another exciting day was waiting for us.
The Journey to Ol Jogi Conservancy
The following morning started with breakfast before we left for Ol Jogi Conservancy.
What we hadn’t prepared for were the roads.
The journey felt much longer than expected because the roads leading into the conservancy were extremely rough. At one point, our vehicle became completely stuck.
For a few moments, we weren’t sure what to do.
Luckily, nearby residents came to our rescue without hesitation. They helped push the vehicle free and even guided us through the difficult section of the road.
Their kindness reminded us that sometimes the people you meet during a journey become just as memorable as the places you visit.
Finally Arriving at Ol Jogi Conservancy
When we finally reached Ol Jogi Conservancy, after paying the park fees, we began exploring.
The first animals we met were two colourful parrots named Rio and Pauline. Pauline happily interacted with us while Rio preferred to keep his distance. Apparently, not everyone enjoys visitors!
As we continued, we spotted graceful cranes, a magnificent lion relaxing in the shade, a shy monkey hiding among the trees, and even a fox quietly moving through the conservancy.
One of the biggest surprises was seeing Africa’s only bear—something many visitors never expect to find.
The Gentle Giants Stole the Show
As incredible as every animal was, nothing compared to meeting the elephant.
Standing just metres away from these gentle giants was both exciting and humbling. Watching them interact so closely reminded us how intelligent and peaceful they truly are.
It was easily everyone’s favourite moment of the conservancy tour.
Before leaving, we also visited the fascinating sand-eroded landscape, where years of natural erosion have created dramatic formations that look almost like works of art.
Why This Trip Was Worth Every Kilometre
By the time we started our journey back to Nakuru, we were exhausted.
Our legs were tired from hiking, our cameras were full of memories, and our hearts were full of gratitude.
From swimming in the crystal-clear blue waters of Ngare Ndare to crossing the thrilling 450-metre canopy walk, enjoying nyama choma in Nanyuki, overcoming rough roads, and experiencing unforgettable wildlife encounters at Ol Jogi Conservancy, every moment reminded us why we love travelling.
Some adventures aren’t perfect and that’s exactly what makes them unforgettable.
Ready for Your Own Adventure?
If Ngare Ndare Forest and Ol Jogi Conservancy are on your bucket list, let PackWeGo Africa handle the planning while you focus on making memories.
Whether you’re travelling solo, with friends, or as a group, we’ll take you on an adventure you’ll be talking about long after the journey ends.
Adventure starts the moment you say yes. See you on the next road trip!
For budget friendlt packages contact us at https//www.packwegoafrica.org/get-a-quote/
Compiled by Wambui Gathiga.
