Private Day Trip to Kiambethu Tea Farm in Limuru From Nairobi

Nestled in the lush hills of Limuru, the Kiambetchu Tea Farm offers a unique opportunity to explore one of Kenya’s oldest tea plantations. Established in 1910, this private day trip from Nairobi showcases the intricate processes of tea production and the farm’s diverse ecosystem. Visitors can wander through the verdant tea fields, observe traditional tea-picking, and indulge in a delectable 3-course lunch at the charming farmhouse. But the true allure of this captivating destination lies in its ability to immerse guests in the rich history and cultural significance of tea in Kenya, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for this beloved beverage.

This experience made our list of the 18 Best Shopping Tours In Nairobi.

Key Points

• Experience a private day trip to the historic Kiambethu Tea Farm, one of Kenya’s oldest tea plantations, located in the picturesque Limuru hills near Nairobi.
• Set out on a guided tour of the tea plantation, learning about the tea-growing, harvesting, and processing techniques through hands-on demonstrations.
• Explore the lush forest and spot diverse wildlife, including the black-and-white Colobus monkeys and a variety of exotic bird species.
• Indulge in a delectable 3-course lunch showcasing the farm’s organic produce and homemade Kenyan-inspired dishes in the charming farmhouse.
• Savor a tea-tasting session, discovering the nuanced flavors and aromas of the region’s distinct tea cultivars.

Kiambethu Tea Farm Overview

Nestled in the lush hills of Limuru, Kiambethu Tea Farm is one of Kenya’s oldest tea plantations, dating back to 1910.

This private full-day tour from Nairobi offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore this historic tea farm.

The experience includes a guided tour of the plantation, where guests will learn about the intricate process of tea growing, picking, and processing.

Visitors can also expect to spot exotic birds and Colobus monkeys as they wander the farm.

To cap off the day, guests will savor a 3-course buffet lunch made with fresh produce from the farm and enjoy a tasting of the estate’s signature Kenyan tea on the charming farmhouse verandah.

Tour of the Tea Plantation

The guided tour of the Kiambethu Tea Farm takes visitors through the lush tea plantations, where they’ll learn the intricacies of tea growing, harvesting, and processing.

Explore the tea fields and observe the delicate tea bushes, which are carefully pruned and maintained to produce the highest quality leaves.

Witness the traditional tea-picking process, where skilled workers hand-pluck the tender, young leaves.

Learn about the intricate drying, withering, and rolling techniques that transform the raw leaves into the fragrant, flavorful tea.

Discover the history and cultural significance of tea production in Kenya, a leading global exporter of this beloved beverage.

Gain a deeper appreciation for the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into every cup of Kenyan tea.

Exploring the Farm and Wildlife

Beyond the tea plantations, visitors can explore the diverse ecosystem of the Kiambethu Farm. They’ll wander through lush forests, keeping an eye out for the striking black-and-white Colobus monkeys swinging through the tree canopy. Guests may also spot a variety of exotic birds, from the vibrant lilac-breasted roller to the stately gray-crowned crane.

Bird Species	Habitat	Distinguishing Features
Lilac-breasted Roller	Woodland edges	Vibrant blue, purple, and green plumage
Gray-crowned Crane	Wetlands	Long neck, black crown, and golden hackles
Martial Eagle	Open grasslands	Massive size and powerful beak
Superb Starling	Forests and savannas	Iridescent blue, purple, and green feathers
African Fish Eagle	Near water sources	White head and tail, dark brown body

Tea Tasting at the Farmhouse

After exploring the tea plantations and observing the farm’s diverse wildlife, visitors can savor a delightful tea tasting on the farmhouse verandah.

Here, they’ll sample freshly brewed Kenyan teas and learn about the nuances of flavor and aroma that distinguish the region’s renowned tea varieties. The tea tasting experience includes:

• Sampling a selection of black, green, and herbal teas grown on the Kiambethu Farm
• Learning from knowledgeable staff about the tea-making process, from plucking to processing
• Discovering the unique terroir and growing conditions that contribute to Kenya’s exceptional teas
• Comparing the distinct flavor profiles and aromas of different tea cultivars

Enjoying the serene ambiance of the farmhouse porch while sipping on the freshly brewed infusions.

Delectable 3-Course Lunch

Following the tour of the tea plantation and tea tasting, visitors can indulge in a delectable 3-course buffet lunch made with fresh produce from the Kiambethu Farm.

The meal starts with a selection of seasonal salads, followed by heartier main dishes that showcase the farm’s organic vegetables, meats, and homemade sauces.

For dessert, guests can savor tempting treats like fruit crumbles or Kenyan-inspired sweets.

The lunch is served in the charming farmhouse, allowing guests to soak in the tranquil ambiance of the estate.

It’s a delightful way to refuel and continue exploring the grounds after an insightful morning learning about tea cultivation.

Hotel and Airport Pickup

The tour includes convenient hotel pickup from any accommodation within Nairobi’s central business district. Guests can also opt for airport pickup, though an additional fee applies.

The tour starts at 9:45 am, ensuring ample time to explore the tea farm and enjoy the full-day experience.

• Pickup is offered from any hotel or residence within the Nairobi CBD.
• Airport pickup can be arranged for an extra charge.
• The tour begins promptly at 9:45 am, allowing sufficient time to immerse in the tour’s activities.

Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, ensuring a smooth and organized experience.

Guests with special dietary requirements can be accommodated, catering to individual needs.

Accessibility and Accommodations

The Kiambetchu Tea Farm tour may not be wheelchair accessible, but it’s conveniently located near public transportation options. Infant seats are available for those traveling with young children.

While the farm itself isn’t designed for mobility-impaired visitors, the experience can still be enjoyed by most. The tour provides a unique glimpse into Kenya’s tea industry, from the plantation to the processing and tasting.

Dietary requirements can also be accommodated, ensuring everyone can fully savor the freshly prepared 3-course lunch made with the farm’s own produce.

Whether you’re looking to explore the farm’s exotic wildlife or simply enjoy a peaceful day in the countryside, the Kiambetchu Tea Farm offers an enriching and accessible experience.

Cancellation Policy and Refunds

Customers can cancel their Kiambetchu Tea Farm tour up to 24 hours before the scheduled experience and receive a full refund. However, no refunds are provided for cancellations made less than 24 hours prior to the tour.

This cancellation policy allows for flexibility in planning, while also ensuring the tour operator can accommodate bookings effectively.

Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance to qualify for a full refund. No refunds are given for cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour.

This policy is in place to help manage tour logistics and accommodate other bookings. Customers are encouraged to review the cancellation terms before finalizing their reservation.

The tour operator give you a seamless experience, and the cancellation policy supports this goal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Age Limit for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a specific age limit. Children of all ages are welcome, and infant seats are available for the transportation. However, the tour may not be suitable for very young children due to the walking involved.

Can I Purchase Tea Leaves or Products On-Site?

Visitors can purchase freshly picked tea leaves and various tea products on-site at the Kiambethu Tea Farm. The farm’s shop offers a range of premium Kenyan teas and souvenirs for guests to take home.

Is the Tour Suitable for Those With Mobility Issues?

The tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues, as the information indicates it is "not wheelchair accessible." However, it notes the tour is near public transportation, suggesting accessibility may be possible with some assistance.

Can I Customize the Tour to My Interests?

The tour can be customized to match guests’ interests. While the core experience includes a plantation tour, tea tasting, and lunch, the tour provider can adjust the itinerary to accommodate specific requests within the tour duration.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Tour?

There are no strict dress code requirements for the tour. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Casual attire is perfectly suitable for the farm tour and activities.

Recap

The Kiambethu Tea Farm offers a captivating glimpse into Kenya’s rich tea heritage.

From exploring the lush plantation to savoring a gourmet lunch, visitors can enjoy the farm’s tranquil beauty and learn about the intricate process of tea production.

This private day trip from Nairobi provides a unique opportunity to discover the cultural significance of tea in Kenya’s vibrant landscape.