The Nairobi Arboretum

I stroll into Nairobi arboretum on a Sunday evening, it’s around 4 pm and the sun is hitting the trees just right. This little gem is located just 3kms from Nairobi CBD on State House Road and could be simply described as an embodiment of soothe. The arboretum sits on 30.4 hectares of land bound by the Kirichwa Kubwa River and is a refuge for city dwellers and visitors who are seeking tranquility, solace, and long walks away but not too far from the city center. It boasts over 350 species of exotic and indigenous plants and more than 100 species of birds. It is also home to a significant population of Sykes and vervet monkeys native only to Africa.

Registration and Entry requirements

Nairobi Arboretum is one of the most affordable green spaces to access in Kenya. For only Kes. 65 per adult and Kes. 27 for children, one can spend a whole day in this coveted spot. I pay via M-Pesa and proceed to the main entrance just next to the Girl Guide HQ. Next to the registration point is displayed a billboard with extra rates for people seeking multiple activities within the arboretum:

• Adult Entrance Fee Kes.65 Children Kes.27
• Car parking fee Kes. 65
• Photography Kes. 1,332
• Videography Kes. 3,306
• Filming Kes.46,400
• Advert Photography 5,000

What to Do at the Arboretum

You will be spoilt for choice once you arrive at the arboretum. I entered the arboretum intending to only take a small walk within the reserve but three hours later, there I still was. It’s so beautiful that I lost track of time. Between pausing to admire the scenery, avoiding the monkeys, taking pictures of said monkeys (when they are not looking my way), and the several moments I took to rest on the park benches, minutes turned to hours and when I look up it’s almost dark and I had to leave. I intend to go back and I will get there much earlier this time.

The arboretum was established in 1907 by Mr. Basticombe, the then-deputy conservator of forests. It was later published in the Kenya gazette as a public-owned national reserve in 1932. It is currently managed by the Kenya Forest Service and offers recreational and educational benefits for Kenyans and visitors alike. Nairobi Arboretum opens every day from 6 am to 6:15 pm. Below are some of the things you can do at the arboretum:

A Visit to the Tree Centre

The Nairobi Arboretum takes great pride in its high-quality display of gardens and lawns that visitors expect and have become accustomed to. This has been made possible by the endless efforts of the tree center located within the reserve.

One of the first things you will notice when you enter the arboretum is that most tree and plant species bear hanging tags labeled with their scientific and English names. In addition, a small description of the plant’s history, origin, and uses is provided. This is a testament to the contribution of staff and volunteers of the tree center who are also available for inquiries on Monday to Friday 8 am to 5 pm.

Students, scholars, researchers, and anyone else interested in the study of Fauna will find the Nairobi Arboretum invaluable.

Picnics

During my visit to the arboretum, I was in utter awe of just how wonderful it was to see groups of people picnicking together in the vast spaces within the reserve. Small intimate groups of people, individuals, larger groups, and even couples were laying their mats, lesos and blankets on the ground and enjoying their packed lunches and snacks. All you need to do is pick a nook you like and have fun.

Weekends are the busiest times at Nairobi arboretum. A weekday morning on the other hand is best if you are looking for some quiet, a walk, or even meditation.

Jogging

The natural dirt trails at the arboretum are excellent for jogging. Due to its large vegetation cover of tall trees, shrubs, and fruit trees, the arboretum provides an instant reprieve from the scorching sun. It’s also a worthy location for practice that athletes in a personal or professional capacity can utilize.

Dog Walking

Pets are allowed at the arboretum and must be on a leash and in the care of their owners. There is enough space for them to play and run around, this destination ensures that no member of the family is left behind.

Photography

Young people shooting Tik-Tok trends, professional photographers with their clients doing their thing, and a few people taking selfies while others simply taking videos of the reserve is common to experience while at the reserve. The natural beauty is so inviting for photography and I urge you to come travel Kenya and experience this for yourself too.

A Few Notable Rules

• Do not feed the monkeys.
• Cycling, Bluetooth speakers, single-use plastic, chairs, and ball games are not allowed.

Writer: Winnie Wekesa