Nyeri, Kenya: A Visitor’s Guide to the Central Highlands
Nyeri is a town in Kenya’s Central Highlands, about 150 km north of Nairobi, set between the eastern base of the Aberdare Range and the western slopes of Mount Kenya. It is the headquarters of Nyeri County, and its position between two mountain areas is why it is a convenient starting point for exploring the region.
Quick take:
- Nyeri sits at roughly 1,750 to 1,800 metres above sea level, about 150 km north of Nairobi
- It lies between the Aberdare Range to the west and Mount Kenya to the east
- Aberdare National Park is about 15 km west of the town, and Mount Kenya National Park about 20 km away
- Coffee and tea are the main cash crops in the area, grown mostly by smallholders
- Rhino Watch Safari Lodge is in Mweiga, Nyeri County, in the Central Kenya Highlands
Where Is Nyeri?
Nyeri lies in the highlands about 150 km north of Nairobi, just south of the equator. It is the headquarters of Nyeri County and was the administrative headquarters of the former Central Province. At around 1,750 to 1,800 metres, the climate is cooler than the lowlands, which is one reason the area suits farming as well as mountain landscapes.
Between Two Mountain Areas
The town sits between the Aberdare Range and Mount Kenya. Aberdare National Park is about 15 km west of Nyeri, and Mount Kenya National Park is about 20 km away. These are distances from the town, and they differ for places elsewhere in the county. For more on the park, see our guide to Aberdare National Park.
Farming Country
Farming is a major part of life in Nyeri County. Coffee and tea are the main cash crops, grown mainly by smallholders organised into co-operatives or companies. Food crops include maize, legumes, potatoes and vegetables, and many households also keep dairy cattle, goats, sheep and poultry.
A Few Notable Names
Nyeri has some well-known connections. Lord Baden-Powell, the founder of the Scouting movement, and his wife Olave are buried in the town cemetery, and the hunter and writer Jim Corbett is also buried in Nyeri. Dedan Kimathi, a leader of the Mau Mau resistance, is among the notable people listed from Nyeri County.
Staying in the Region
We are in Mweiga, Nyeri County, in the Central Kenya Highlands, beneath Mt Kenya, near three wildlife reserves: Solio Game Reserve, Ol Pejeta Conservancy and Aberdare National Park. One guest wrote:
“An absolutely magical experience. Waking up to birdsong, the views of Mt Kenya at sunrise, and the warmth of the staff. We’ve already booked to return.”
— Sarah M., United Kingdom, TripAdvisor
To plan a stay in the region, you can check availability with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Nyeri in Kenya?
Nyeri is a town in the Central Highlands, about 150 km north of Nairobi, between the Aberdare Range and Mount Kenya.
How high is Nyeri above sea level?
Nyeri sits at roughly 1,750 to 1,800 metres above sea level.
What is Nyeri known for?
Nyeri is known for its position between Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Range, for coffee and tea farming, and for its connections to figures such as Lord Baden-Powell, who is buried in the town.
Is Rhino Watch Safari Lodge in Nyeri County?
Yes. We are Rhino Watch Safari Lodge, in Mweiga, Nyeri County, in the Central Kenya Highlands.
