Karura Forest, Nairobi

Name: Karura Forest
Address: Nairobi, Kenya

#25 among attractions in Nairobi

Nature, Natural attraction, Forest

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Facts and practical information

Karura Forest: A Haven of Tranquility in Nairobi's Heart

Karura Forest stands as an emblem of natural beauty and serenity within the bustling city of Nairobi, Kenya. This urban oasis, sprawling over 1,000 hectares, is a testament to the city's commitment to preserving green spaces amidst rapid urbanization. Established in the late 20th century, Karura Forest is not only a recreational haven but also an ecological goldmine, providing a habitat for a wide variety of flora and fauna.

The forest is a sanctuary for nature lovers, joggers, families, and tourists seeking a respite from the city's hustle and bustle. With well-maintained walking and cycling trails, visitors can explore the forest's beauty at their own pace. The trails meander through lush woodland, bamboo stands, and riparian ecosystems, leading to enchanting waterfalls, caves historically used by Mau Mau freedom fighters, and a serene lily-covered lake.

Karura Forest is also a significant birdwatcher's paradise, home to over 200 bird species. The forest's rich biodiversity includes a variety of mammals such as bushbucks, duikers, and Sykes monkeys, providing an opportunity for wildlife viewing within the city limits.

Environmental education is a core part of the forest's mission, with several initiatives in place to raise awareness about conservation. The forest is managed by the Kenya Forest Service in partnership with the Friends of Karura Forest, a community-based organization dedicated to its protection and enhancement.

Coordinates: 1°14'25"S, 36°49'25"E

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Karura ForestNairobi Kenya

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Day trips

Karura Forest – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Westgate, Village Market, Nairobi National Museum, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Nairobi.

1.8 miSW
Shopping centre, Shopping
Westgate, Nairobi
47 min walk • Westgate Shopping Mall stands as a modern symbol of Nairobi's urban culture, offering a high-end shopping and entertainment experience. Located in the heart of the city's affluent Westlands area, this shopping center is a beacon of lifestyle luxury for both locals...
1.5 miNW
Shopping centre, Shopping, Department store
Village Market, Nairobi
39 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Nairobi, Kenya, the Village Market is a premier shopping and recreation destination that offers a blend of culture, entertainment, and retail experiences. Established in 1995, this expansive shopping centre has evolved into a vibrant hub where...
2.4 miS
Museum, Specialty museum, History museum
Nairobi National Museum, Nairobi
62 min walk • Nairobi National Museum stands as a cultural and historical beacon in the heart of Kenya's bustling capital city, Nairobi. This comprehensive museum offers a vivid journey through the country's rich heritage, showcasing a blend of art, history, and natural sciences.
1.9 miS
Temple
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Nairobi, Nairobi
50 min walk • The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Nairobi is a beacon of spirituality and Indian culture in the heart of Kenya's bustling capital city. This Hindu temple, part of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) organization, stands as a testament...
2.3 miSE
Street
Thika Road, Nairobi
58 min walk • Thika Road, a key highway in Kenya, serves as the arterial route connecting the bustling capital city of Nairobi to the growing industrial town of Thika and beyond. This significant roadway is more than just a stretch of asphalt; it is the lifeline that facilitates the...
2 miS
Temple
Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Nairobi
52 min walk • Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, a serene spiritual oasis in the heart of Nairobi, Kenya, stands as a testament to the city's rich tapestry of cultural and religious diversity. This Hindu temple, an architectural marvel, is not just a place of worship but also a center for...
2.5 miS
Nature, Natural attraction, Forest
Nairobi Arboretum, Nairobi
63 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Kenya's bustling capital city, Nairobi Arboretum stands as a verdant sanctuary, offering a slice of tranquility amidst urban clamor. This lush forest reserve, established in 1907 by the British colonial government, spans over 30 hectares...
2.1 miW
1°14'11"S • 36°47'35"E
New Muthaiga Shopping Mall, Nairobi
55 min walk • Shopping centre, Shopping, Playground
2.7 miS
Concerts and shows, Performing arts, Theater
Kenya National Theatre, Nairobi
69 min walk • Kenya National Theatre is part of the Kenya Cultural Centre, a Semi Autonomous Government Agency under the Ministry of State for National Heritage and Culture in Kenya. It is mandated to offer space for the rehearsal and staging of productions to both local and international repertoire.
1.4 miS
Sport, Sport venue
City Park Hockey Stadium, Nairobi
37 min walk • The City Park Hockey Stadium is a field hockey stadium in Nairobi, Kenya. The Kenya men's and women's national hockey teams use the stadium for trainings and matches, in preparation for international tournaments.
2.8 miS
Universities and schools
University of Nairobi, Nairobi
71 min walk • The University of Nairobi is a collegiate research university based in Nairobi. It is the largest among universities in Kenya. Although its history as an educational institution dates back to 1956, it did not become an independent university until 1970.