Are you tracing the roots of Kenyan tea farm tours, or in search of an unforgettable journey into the scenic landscapes of the green tea plantations, one of Kenya’s most treasured crops? With Naicef, explore the best Kenya tea experiences from the highlands of tea plantations in Kenya Kericho, to the serene, rich slopes of tea farms in Limuru.
Whether you’re a curious traveler or a group seeking immersive tea farm tours Nairobi and across the country, Naicef promises incredible moments. Reach out to us via our contact email at my@naicef.com or call: +254799922277.
You can also;
Book A Tea Farm Tour Here
So are you ready to dive and sip the story of Kenya, one leaf at a time?
Interesting Facts About Tea Farm Tours In Kenya
Did you know that currently, Kenya is the world’s leading exporter of Black Tea, even though nations such as China and India produce more tea overall?
Kenya tea farm, being a haven for tea plantations, most farms offer farm-to-cup experiences where one can learn the whole journey from plucking, processing, e.t.c.
Also, major tea farms are nestled in scenic highland regions such as Limuru, Kericho, and Nandi Hills, offering breathtaking views, perfect for immersive experiences.
Many tea farms do allow tourists to practically pluck tea leaves by hand, which is the traditional method where one selects two leaves and a bud.
Did you also know that Kenya is one of the few countries growing Purple Tea, offering exclusive tours and tasting, and also the first purple tea farming in the world? Interesting, right?
Surprisingly enough, you don’t have to travel far from the heart of the country, as tea farm tours Nairobi and nearby places such as Limuru are ideal for a quick getaway.
In regions such as Nandi and Kericho Counties, tea tours can be paired with other fun things to do in Kenya, such as waterfall hikes and birdwatching.
Top 8 Best Tea Farms In Kenya; Come For The Views Stay For The Tea
Now, having looked into some interesting facts, here are now some of the best tea farm tours in Kenya;
1. Kiambethu Tea Farm
Kiambethu tea farm is one of the oldest farms in Kenya, tucked in the cool highlands of Limuru, just 30 kilometers northwest of Nairobi, making it about 30 minutes away.
It is one of the best tea farms in Limuru that offers guided tours from farm-to-cup experiences. Kiambethu tea farm was first established back then in 1910 by AB McDonell, a British settler, who was among the first to grow tea in the country.
What makes it even special is that the farm was the first farm in Kenya to grow tea for export, making it ideal for a Kenya tea farm experience.
2. Riara Tea Tours
Nestled in the serene hills of Limuru, Riara Tea Farm is a sanctuary of wellness and one of the tea farms in Limuru that advocates a space where tea, nature, and culture coexist.
The name ‘Riara’ was derived from the Kikuyu word for ‘Stream’, meaning healing and nature, and hence the place is not only for tea farms but also for wellness retreats.
Some of the amazing experiences one can enjoy while at the place include guided tea farm tours, walks, tea blending & tasting, forest meditation sessions, cultural performances, and even storytelling around bonfires.
3. Gatura Greens
Gatura Greens is also a vibrant Kenyan tea farm situated in Murang’a County that began as a family-run farm.
What makes it special is that in the early 2000s, the farm shifted to purple tea cultivation, making it the first not only in Kenya but in the whole world to be the first producer of Purple Tea.
How fascinating that is!
They do offer educational tours, waterfall hikes, nature walks, hands-on purple tea plucking & processing, and wellness workshops. Gatura Greens is a must-visit Kenya tea farm where science, sustainability, and storytelling brew together.
4. Nandi Hills Tea Farms
Tucked on the western edge of the Great Rift Valley region is Nandi Hills, a serene region with smaller estates known for their breathtaking views of the Rift Valley.
Tea farming in the Nandi Hills started back then in the 1950s, driven by small-scale farmers and local communities. One can expect to experience hand-plucking demonstrations, learn about orthodox tea production, enjoy bird watching, walks, or even picnic experiences.
5. Kericho Tea Plantations
Kericho County is famously renowned for being the heartbeat of Kenya’s tea industry. Its legacy began then in the 1920s when the British settlers demonstrated tea cultivation in the region, as the climate was ideal.
Some of the key estates that entail endless waves of the green tea plantations, stretching across the horizon include;
- Unilever Tea Kenya. It is known for its large-scale production of tea and is innovative as it is one of the most technologically advanced tea producers in East Africa.
- James Finlay Kenya. This is a historic tea company dating back to the late 19th Century, where it manages the vast estates in Kericho and offers guided tours.
- Williamson Tea. It is a family-owned business, and it has been in operation for over 150 years, both in Kericho and Nandi Hills. It is instantly recognizable by its iconic Elephant branding and heritage, and they offers beautifully packaged teas.
And so if you are to visit Kericho, be ready to be awed by the scenic drives where the tea is “Kenyan Pride”.
6. Sotik Highlands Tea Estate
Sotik Highlands Tea Estate is nestled in the lush highlands of Bomet County, and it is a masterpiece of serenity.
It was established in the mid-1900s, as part of a government-backed initiative to boost tea production in the Rift Valley region.
At the estate, one can expect to experience interacting with the local pluckers, gain insights into the orthodox tea production, enjoy the expansive views of the tea farms, and even visit the modern processing facilities.
7. Gathoni Sensory Garden & Tea Farm
Gathoni Sensory Garden was born out of a concern to redefine tea farming, and thus it was founded by Gathoni Wanjiru, a wellness advocate and horticulturist.
The stunning farm integrates tea production, herbal gardens, art, and mindfulness spaces, making it a must-visit tea farm in Kenya.
It is hidden in the rolling hills of Limuru, and offers various activities such as guided botanical garden & tea farm tours, tea roasting & tasting, and even wellness workshops & gardening.
This then makes it one of the nearby tea farm tours Nairobi to explore and make unforgettable memories.
8. Fairview Coffee & Tea Estate
Fairview Coffee & Tea Estate is mostly known for coffee, even though it also offers tea tours. It is one of the ideal tea farm tours Nairobi, as it is in the suburbs of Karen, just on the outskirts of Nairobi City center.
It originally started as a coffee estate back then in the early 20th century, when the colonial settlers experimented coffee cultivation in the fertile lands of Karen.
Some of the what to expect include: guided walks through the coffee and tea farms, learn sessions about the dual-crop farming, and even doing some coffee and tea tasting.
The place is a perfect getaway for day-trippers seeking a countryside vibe without leaving Nairobi.
Best Tea Farm Staycations In Kenya
Here are some of the charming accommodations in tea farms in Kenya that will surely sway you to visit;
1. Kiambethu Tea Farm Limuru Cottages
As if it doesn’t get any better, Kiambethu Tea Farm Limuru Cottages are also one of the amazing tea farm accommodations that you should surely try to spend a night at, if you are a tea lover.
These cottages offer direct access to one of Kenya’s oldest tea estates, where they have guided tea tours, forest walks, and farm-to-table lunch, which is a whole tea farm immersion.
Kiambethu Cottages are usually cozy with verandas and fireplaces, making them ideal to cope with the cool climatic conditions at the place.
2. Thayu Farm Hotel
Just situated off the Nairobi- Nakuru Highway in Limuru is Thayu Farm Hotel. The name “Thayu” is a Kikuyu word that means “Peace,” making it ideal for travelers who seek a serene place to stay.
Thayu Farm Hotel is surrounded by the lush green tea plantations and the indigenous forest, where visitors can enjoy tea farm tours and tea tastings in nearby tea farms such as Kiambethu.
The place is also a popular ground for weddings, family hangouts, and even retreats, as they have spacious spaces.
3. Paradise Farm Cottages Mbui
Nestled about 10 km from Nyeri town, Paradise Farm Cottages Mbui is a hidden gem that you should surely check out!
The cottages offer 8 executive luxury rooms, farm-to-table dining, and ideal, serene environments for nature lovers and wellness seekers.
Paradise Farm Cottages do have a scenic natural waterfall which is sourced directly from the Aberdare Ranges and even sweeping views of the tea fields nearby.
4. The Tea Cottage- Karatina
The Tea Cottage is nestled in Nyeri County, just in the foothills of Mount Kenya, which is Africa’s second-tallest mountain. This amazing cottage offers an intimate getaway with stunning views of the small tea farms surrounding it and of Mt.Kenya.
Guests at the place can enjoy farm walks, interacting with the smallholder tea growers, and maybe even have a chance to try plucking tea.
It is tucked not far from Karatina town, making it ideal for tourists who seek a peaceful rural immersion.
5. TeaPod Tigoni
TeaPod Tigoni is a boutique staycation tucked in the lush green tea hills of Limuru, making it ideal for luxurious experiences, creatives, and wellness travelers.
The place is such amazing that they also offer herbal tea tastings, guided tea plantation walks, and even yoga decks, as the place is surrounded by forest canopy, bamboo groves, and the stunning tea fields.
TeaPod is designed for mindfulness, making it a haven for a perfect getaway.
6. Siri Cabins
Siri Cabins are also one of the amazing luxurious tea farm staycations that are situated in Limuru.
They are a perfect hideaway that offers personalized experiences such as forest bathing, storytelling nights, and even tea blending at the same time.
Each cabin is uniquely themed and surrounded by the indigenous forest, combining sustainability with style, making it ideal for conscious travelers.
7. Aquawood Cabin
Tucked into the scenic landscapes of Kirinyaga County is this stylish Aquawood Cabin. It is built with natural wood and is surrounded by tea farms, waterfalls, and amazing views of Mt.Kenya.
Aquawood Cabin is a nature-based retreat staycation, ideally for couples or even solo travelers, where they can enjoy tea garden walks, forest hikes, and even quiet evenings by the fire.
Feel a touch of luxury at this amazing stay, as it is a place you wouldn’t wanna miss out on spending a night at!
Conclusion
So, in conclusion, from the whispering leaves of tea farms in Limuru to the golden sunrise over the tea plantations in Kenya Kericho, every step through Kenya’s tea country is such an amazing journey.
Whether you are steeping on Kenya tea farm tours or unwinding at tea farm tours Nairobi, such as Kiambethu, Gatura Greens, or Kericho Tea Plantations, the experience is more than a getaway.
Explore also amazing tea farm staycations, such as TeaPod Tigoni, Thayu Farm Hotel, and Kiambethu Tea Farm Cottages, among others.
So now the question is,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,will you taste it for yourself ?
Reach out to Naicef via our contact email at my@naicef.com or call: +254799922277. Also, you may,
Book Any Tour Here
Check out also our amazing stories about the various counties in Kenya, such as Nakuru, Laikipia, Kwale, Wajir, Trans Nzoia, Kilifi, Turkana, Marsabit, Vihiga, West Pokot, and Busia, among others.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Tea Farms In Kenya
1. Which are the major tea-growing regions in Kenya?
The Kenya tea farms region includes Kiambu, Kericho, Nandi, Nyeri, and Kisii. However, tea plantations in Kenya Kericho is the most famous, hosting scenic landscapes.
2. What makes Kenyan tea unique?
Kenyan tea is known to be of high quality, has a strong flavor, and a bright color, making it ideal for producing premium black tea.
3. Can I visit the tea farms in Kenya?
Of course! Many tea farms in Kenya, especially in Limuru and near Nairobi, offer guided tours.One can learn about how tea is cultivated, processed, and even have a taste of a Kenyan black tea.
4. Which activities are included in any tea farm tours?
Ideal activities in the Kenya tea farm tour include tea plucking demonstrations, farm walks, tea tasting sessions, and even factory visits.
5. Are there tea farm tours near Nairobi?
Yeah! Tea farms in Limuru, such as Kiambethu, do offer half-day tours, making them ideal for day trips near Nairobi.
6. When is the best time to visit a tea farm in Kenya?
The dry seasons are usually ideal for tea farms and which are between January to March and between June to September.
7. What are the types of tea grown in Kenya?
In Kenya, black tea is the most popular but there are also purple tea and green tea, which are becoming known.
8. Can one buy tea directly from a Kenya tea farm?
Absolutely. Most tea farms do sell packaged tea, and some even sell online for those ordering locally and internationally.
9. Do one need to book tea farm tours in advance?
It is usually advisable to book in advance to ensure availability and personalized experiences for unforgettable moments.
10. Are tea farm tours fit for groups or children?
Of course. Most farms do cater to school groups, corporate teams, and even families with personalized experiences.
