01
The Waterfall
The trail drops into the valley to a waterfall tumbling over moss-covered boulders, the coolest and greenest corner of the forest.
Valley trail · Ferns and moss · Photo spot
Explore
Along the Trail
Two loops, 5 km and 10 km, link the forest's landmarks. Allow two to four hours for a walk.
5 km short loop 10 km full loop 2 to 4 hours
02
Mau Mau Caves
A 37-metre cave beneath a rock overhang, one of the hideouts used by Mau Mau fighters during the struggle for independence.
37 m cave · Colonial-era history · Guide recommended
03
Bamboo Rest Point
A grove where tall bamboo arches over the stream. Benches make it the natural halfway stop on the longer loop.
Rest point · Streamside · Shade
04
Forest Stream
Quiet pools and a stepped weir along the stream that threads the forest. Dragonflies, kingfishers and, after rain, a proper rush of water.
Weir · Birding · Papyrus swamp nearby
05
Picnic and Camping Site
A clearing under mature trees with benches, a fire circle and space for tents. Overnight camping is booked on eCitizen.
Picnic benches · Fire circle · Overnight camping
06
Crowned Eagle Watchtower
A timber hide built to study the forest's resident pair of Crowned Eagles, Africa's most powerful eagle. Climb up, keep still, and scan the canopy for the birds soaring and calling above it.
Crowned Eagles · Timber hide · Longer loop
Ready to walk it?
Plan Your WalkThings to Do
Ways to Enjoy the Forest
Walk, ride, watch birds, picnic or stay the night. All visits are booked on the KIPRE eCitizen portal.
Nature Walks
Follow the 5 km or 10 km loop through indigenous forest to the waterfall, the bamboo grove and the Mau Mau caves.
Bird Watching
Forest, river-edge and raptor species along the streams and canopy. Early mornings in the dry season are best.
Cycling
The wider tracks from the entrance are open to cyclists. Bring your own bike and keep to the main track.
Picnicking
Benches and clearings under the trees at rest points along the trail and at the main picnic site.
Overnight Camping
Camp at the designated site with its fire circle and wake to the forest dawn chorus. Booked on eCitizen.
Educational Visits
Organised visits for schools and institutions, arranged through KIPRE, with hands-on learning about the forest.
Every visit is booked online.
How to BookPlan Your Visit
Everything You Need to Know
Make the most of your Oloolua visit with this essential guide
Opening Hours
Open every day including holidays
Monday – Sunday9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Overnight camping is by prior booking. Hours are confirmed when your eCitizen application is accepted.
Day Visit Fees
Adult / child, paid on eCitizen
Kenyan citizensKES 200 / KES 100
East African residentsKES 400 / KES 200
Non-residentsKES 600 / KES 300
As listed on eCitizen, September 2026. Camping, group and family-pass rates are on the bookings page. Check the portal
Getting Here
Karen, south-west of Nairobi
The trail is inside the Kenya Institute of Primate Research (KIPRE) grounds in Karen, about 20 km from the city centre.
Head for Karen and look for the gate signposted Institute of Primate Research. Report to the gate office with your eCitizen confirmation.
Dry Season
Jun – Oct & Jan – Feb
Best for birding and long walks
Wet Season
Mar – May & Nov – Dec
Lush greenery and the waterfall at its fullest
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes
Sunscreen & insect repellent
Water bottle (1L min)
Binoculars (optional)
Camera
Light rain jacket
Hat or cap
Your eCitizen confirmation
Trail Rules & Etiquette
- Stay on marked trails at all times
- No littering — carry out all waste
- Do not feed or approach wildlife
- Keep noise to a minimum
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- No picking of plants or flowers
- Follow the guidance of trail staff
Stay Connected to the Forest
Occasional news from the trail: notable sightings, new journal posts and conservation work. No fixed schedule, no spam.
Your address is used only for this. Email us any time to be taken off the list.