Journal · Published
Nairobi's roads are not built for leisure cycling, but within an hour or two of the city there are some excellent places to ride, from forest trails to tea country and a national park where you can cycle past zebra. Here are four of the best.
1. Tigoni tea country
About 30 km north-west of the city, Tigoni's red-earth farm roads roll through tea fields and patches of forest at over 2,000 metres. It is the closest real countryside riding to Nairobi. The hills make e-bikes the ideal way to explore, and a guide helps you find the quiet lanes. Our two-hour guided e-bike tour costs KSh 3,500 per person.
2. Karura Forest
Inside Nairobi itself, Karura Forest has designated trails through the trees and is the easiest place for a quick ride. The Friends of Karura hire out multi-speed trail bikes from several gates for a fee per two hours, daily during the day; you leave ID as a deposit. Check current prices and opening times on their website, and remember to call out when passing walkers and runners.
3. Hell's Gate National Park
Near Lake Naivasha, about two hours from Nairobi, Hell's Gate is one of the few Kenyan national parks where you can cycle. Bikes can be hired at the gate, and a road of roughly 14 km runs between the main gates past cliffs, gorges and grazing wildlife such as zebra and giraffe. It is a full-day trip, and buffalo should be given plenty of space.
4. The Rift Valley escarpment roads
For experienced road cyclists, the roads around Limuru and down the escarpment offer big climbs and big views. They also carry heavy traffic, including lorries, so they are best left to confident riders who know the routes.
Tips for cycling near Nairobi
- Start early, before the heat and the afternoon showers.
- Wear a helmet and carry water.
- Bring a warm layer for the highlands.
- Check the rules and fees of parks and forests before you go.
