There’s something magical about night drives—the serenity of the open road, the distant city lights fading away, and the mystery of what lies ahead. My Nakuru to Nanyuki road trip via Rumuruti was one of those unforgettable experiences that combined adventure, great food, breathtaking landscapes, and an unexpected wildlife encounter.
If you’re looking for a unique road trip experience in Kenya, this route should be on your list! From the smooth roads of Subukia and Nyahururu to the rugged paths leading to Nanyuki, every part of this journey is filled with adventure.
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Setting Off – The Thrill of a Night Drive
I started my journey from Nakuru at 8:30 PM, embracing the thrill of a night drive. Nakuru is a vibrant town during the day, but at night, the roads are much quieter. The weather was calm, with a cool breeze adding to the excitement.
My first leg of the trip took me to Subukia, a stretch that typically takes 40 minutes when there’s no traffic. The road was clear, making for a smooth ride.
However, I quickly realized that the night was unusually dark—there was no electricity in some parts of Subukia. This made me rethink my plans for a dinner stop. I considered grabbing something to eat but ultimately decided to push forward and look for a better place ahead.
A Hidden Gem for Dinner – Paradise Point Resort in Nyahururu
As I continued my journey past Laikipia University, I stumbled upon a hidden gem—Paradise Point Resort-Nyahururu. This place caught my attention with its well-lit compound and unique decorations. At the entrance, I was greeted by life-sized animal sculptures, including an ostrich, lion, and elephant—giving the place a safari-like feel.
The restaurant was welcoming, with friendly staff and a cozy ambiance. I ordered a simple but delicious meal—beef dry fry with ugali. The food was well-prepared, and their service was top-notch. If you’re planning a trip along this route, Paradise Point Resort is a great stop for both meals and accommodation.
After enjoying my meal, I took a short break to stretch before hitting the road again at 11:30 PM. With a full stomach and renewed energy, I continued towards Rumuruti.
The Road to Rumuruti – A Smooth Midnight Drive
At this point, the journey became more thrilling. Nyahururu to Rumuruti is a smooth road, making it ideal for night drives. The quietness of the night, combined with the fresh highland air, made the drive even more enjoyable.
This stretch took me 50 minutes, and I enjoyed every bit of it. The road was mostly empty, except for a few trucks and night travelers. Unlike many routes in Kenya, this part of the trip felt safe and well-maintained.
Finding Accommodation in Rumuruti
Upon reaching Rumuruti town, I faced a small challenge—I had no pre-arranged accommodation. Since I didn’t know anyone in the area, I had to find a budget-friendly place to stay.
To my surprise, it took me less than 5 minutes to find a good hotel. Rumuruti offers self-contained rooms ranging from 1,000 Ksh to 2,000 Ksh, depending on the comfort level you want. I decided to test the budget option and chose a 1,000 Ksh room at Eureka Hotel.
For those who prefer extra comfort, a 1,500 Ksh room includes bed and breakfast. However, I opted out since my plan was to leave early and capture the sunrise.
Chasing the Sunrise – An Early Morning Departure
At 5:40 AM, I signed out of my hotel, ready for the next part of my adventure. Rumuruti can be very cold in the morning, so I layered up before stepping outside. The crisp morning air was refreshing, setting the perfect mood for a scenic drive.
My next destination was Ngaring’iro (Dipatas). The road from Rumuruti to Nanyuki is not for the faint-hearted. Unlike the smooth roads I had enjoyed earlier, this stretch is a rough road requiring high-ground clearance vehicles.
Since I was driving a Toyota 100 (1992 model), I had to be extra cautious. The road can be slippery, and the best approach is to maintain a maximum speed of 40 km/h. The drive was slow, but the stunning sunrise views made up for it.
Wildlife Encounters on the Way to Nanyuki
One of the most exciting parts of this journey was the unexpected wildlife sightings. This route is surrounded by some of Kenya’s best conservancies and game reserves, including:
- ADC Conservancy
- Maji Tamu Conservancy
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy
These reserves are home to diverse wildlife, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot giraffes, zebras, and antelopes right by the roadside.
I was fortunate enough to spot a few giraffes feeding on acacia trees. Seeing wildlife up close while on a road trip is always an incredible experience. If you’re really lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of elephants crossing the road.
Final Stretch – Reaching Ngaring’iro and Beyond
After a 2.5-hour drive from Rumuruti, I finally reached my destination—Ngaring’iro (Dipatas). The road had been rough, but the adventure made it worthwhile.
For those traveling further to Nanyuki town, the drive takes another 40 minutes. At this point, the road improves slightly, but it’s still advisable to drive slowly and remain cautious.
Reflections on the Nakuru to Nanyuki Road Trip via Rumuruti
Looking back, this Nakuru to Nanyuki road trip was one for the books. It had everything—adventure, great food, stunning landscapes, and wildlife encounters. Whether you’re a night drive enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or simply looking for an off-the-beaten-path road trip, this route is worth exploring.
Pro Tips for Travelers
- Fuel Up Before Nyahururu – Fuel stations are scarce past Nyahururu, so ensure your tank is full.
- Choose the Right Car – A 4×4 or high-ground clearance car is ideal for the Rumuruti-Nanyuki stretch.
- Drive Cautiously – The Rumuruti-Nanyuki road can be slippery and rough, so maintain a safe speed.
- Accommodation is Affordable – Budget hotels in Rumuruti range from 1,000 Ksh to 2,000 Ksh.
- Wildlife Watching – Keep your camera ready, as you might see giraffes, zebras, or even elephants!
- Best Stopover for Food & Rest – Paradise Point Resort-Nyahururu is highly recommended for meals and accommodation.
- Plan for Cold Mornings – If traveling early, dress warmly—Rumuruti mornings are chilly.
Would I take this trip again? Absolutely! There’s something special about the Nakuru to Nanyuki route via Rumuruti. If you love scenic drives, adventurous roads, and wildlife encounters, I highly recommend trying it out.
Join us in our Next Trip will be 12th April 2025
FAQs – Nakuru to Nanyuki Road Trip via Rumuruti
Is the road from Nakuru to Nanyuki via Rumuruti safe for a night drive?
Yes, the road is generally safe, but it’s advisable to drive cautiously, especially between Nyahururu and Rumuruti, as some sections can be dark and less populated. If you’re driving at night, ensure your car is in good condition and that you have enough fuel since fuel stations are limited past Nyahururu.
What type of car is best for the Rumuruti-Nanyuki road?
A 4×4 vehicle or a high-ground clearance car is the best option for the Rumuruti to Nanyuki stretch, as the road can be rough and slippery, especially in the rainy season. However, smaller cars can still manage with extra caution and lower speeds.
Are there good places to eat along the way?
Yes! Paradise Point Resort-Nyahururu is a great place to stop for food. They serve delicious meals, have friendly service, and offer accommodation if needed. Other food options are available in Nyahururu town, but choices become limited after Rumuruti.
Can I see wildlife on this route?
Yes, this road passes near major conservancies such as ADC Conservancy, Maji Tamu, and Ol Pejeta, so you might spot giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and even elephants along the roadside, especially early in the morning or late in the evening.
Where can I find budget accommodation in Rumuruti?
Rumuruti has affordable hotels, with rooms ranging from 1,000 Ksh to 2,000 Ksh per night. A good budget-friendly option is Eureka Hotel, where you can get a self-contained room for 1,000 Ksh, or upgrade to a 1,500 Ksh room with bed and breakfast.