Ngare Ndare Forest is a lush indigenous forest located at the foothills of Mount Kenya, within Meru County in Kenya. It is part of the Mount Kenya Forest Ecosystem and forms a critical wildlife corridor that links the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy to Mount Kenya National Park allowing free movement of elephants and other wildlife. The name Ngare Ndare means water for the goats in the local Maasai language, reflecting the forest’s rich water sources that have long supported both people and animals.
The forest is home to ancient trees some over 200 years old including a rich variety of indigenous hardwood species such as podocarpus, olive and cedar. These trees form a dense canopy that creates a unique microclimate supporting a diverse range of plant and animal life. Beneath this canopy lie six stunning waterfalls that are natural blue rock pools. These pools are ideal for swimming offering visitors a cool and refreshing experience.
One of the forest’s most popular attractions is the 450-meter-long canopy walkway, suspended 30 feet above the forest floor. This treetop bridge offers visitors a thrilling opportunity to walk among the treetops while enjoying panoramic views of the forest and the wildlife below. It is the longest canopy walkway in East Africa, making it a must-visit highlight of Ngare Ndare Forest.
Wildlife and birding at Ngare Ndare Forest
Ngare Ndare Forest is a thriving sanctuary for a wide variety of wildlife it provides a safe habitat for elephants, buffaloes, leopards, baboons, Colobus monkeys, bushbucks and many other species. The forest also serves as a key migratory route for elephants as they move between northern Kenya and the Mount Kenya region highlighting its critical role in regional wildlife conservation.
Ngare Ndare is a paradise for bird watchers with over 200 bird species which have been recorded in the forest, including several rare and endemic species. The diversity of habitats from dense forest canopy to open glades and riverbanks supports a rich avian population making the forest an excellent destination for both amateur and experienced bird enthusiasts.
Community Involvement and Forest Management
Community involvement in Ngare Ndare Forest began in 2004 with the formation of the Ngare Ndare Forest Trust. The trust manages the forest alongside local communities and conservation partners promoting sustainable use and protection of the forest. NNFT supports community-based conservation, ecotourism and the use of biogas for cooking to reduce deforestation. It also helps prevent human wildlife conflict by building elephant deterrent fences and educating locals on peaceful coexistence with wildlife.
Activities at Ngare Ndare Forest
- Tree Canopy Walk on 450m suspended walkway above the forest.
- Swimming In natural blue glacier pools and waterfalls.
- Rock Climbing On natural rock faces with guides.
- Hiking & Nature Walks on forest trails.
- Wildlife Viewing
- Camping & Picnicking