ESCAPE ZIPLINING AT THE FOREST
A 45-minute drive from Nairobi is the Forest, an adventure retreat that offers the longest series of ziplines in East Africa along with a wealth of other activities such as mountain biking, archery, paintballing and fly fishing. Open just over a year now, the Forest has become a hugely popular destination for those seeking a bit of adventure not too far from the city. It’s usually packed out at weekends, so head there during the week if looking for some peace. An Alpine-style cafe overlooks the Aberdares. The full zipline tour - speeding you across six ziplines - costs Ksh 2,500 per person. Open on public holidays during the festive season from 9 am to 5 pm. www.theforest.co.ke
HORSE-RIDING AT MALO STABLES, NAIROBI
For experienced riders, a hack in a new city can often be a disappointing experience upon broken-down, plodding horses, with a short canter thrown in. But at Malo, owner Anja du Toit has transformed the “hack” experience into something much more exciting, although you pay a hefty price for that pleasure. Anja, who also breeds warmbloods, has a collection of lively mounts, which you’ll meet at a nearby Dagoretti forest for an exhilarating ride, with enough speed for those who want it. Ksh 5,500 for an hour’s hack, and Ksh 11,000 for two hours (at weekends, minimum of two hours). Open during the holidays. www.malostables.com
WALKING IN OLOOLUA FOREST
Less known than Karura on the other side of town, Oloolua, wedged on the edge of Karen, is nevertheless a pretty spot for a hearty walk, made more appealing by its waterfall and long caves. For the most part, the 4.5 km circular walk is under forest canopy, with the occasional glade. Run by Kenyan Museums, this forest is much quieter than Karura, and on weekdays you’re likely to be among a handful of walkers. There a couple of picnic spots, and it’s also possible to camp in the forest with prior arrangement. Ksh 200 for citizens, Ksh 400 for residents. Open on public holidays during the festive season from 9 am to 6 pm.
NOMAD MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2017
41