Nanyuki walking tour & city guide
On the Equator beneath Mount Kenya.
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Nanyuki, a market town at the foot of Mount Kenya, sits right on the Equator. It is the base for climbing the mountain and for safaris at Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
The town
A sign marks the Equator, where guides demonstrate the Coriolis effect with water. The town has a relaxed atmosphere and craft shops.
Around
Ol Pejeta Conservancy is home to the last two northern white rhinos and a chimpanzee sanctuary. Mount Kenya, Africa's second-highest peak, rises above the town.
Good to know
Nanyuki is about three hours north of Nairobi by road. Ol Pejeta Conservancy is home to the Big Five and to the last two northern white rhinos in the world, guarded around the clock. The Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, inside Ol Pejeta, is the only place in Kenya to see chimpanzees. Mount Kenya treks usually take four to five days.
Why it is worth a visit
Nanyuki is a friendly market town and one of the most pleasant bases in central Kenya. On the edge of town, cafés, craft shops and a small airstrip serve safari travelers on their way to Laikipia, a region of private conservancies where wildlife roams freely across ranches. The views of Mount Kenya, especially at sunrise when the clouds lift from the jagged peaks, are spectacular. The Equator crossing in town is a fun photo stop.
Top sights in Nanyuki
- 1
Equator sign
Stand on the Equator.
- 2
Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Rhinos and chimpanzees.
- 3
Mount Kenya
Africa's second-highest peak.
- 4
Nanyuki market
Local produce and crafts.
- 5
Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy
Animal orphanage.
Food markets & where to eat in Nanyuki
Nanyuki market
Fresh produce.
Town center
Cafés and local food.
Nyama choma spots
Grilled meat.
Food to try in Nanyuki
Nyama choma
Grilled meat.
Githeri
Maize and beans.
Kenyan coffee
From Mount Kenya's slopes.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Nanyuki
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in NanyukiCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Nanyuki.
- eSIM for KenyaStay online from the moment you land.
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