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Nyahururu, Kenya
Tafaria Castle
KSh12200.00
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Overview
Resident Rates / Prices
Description
Tafaria Castle: A Fairytale Getaway in Kenya’s Highlands
Tafaria Castle is one of Kenya’s most captivating hidden gems — a hilltop retreat that blends medieval charm with modern luxury. Set on the edge of the Aberdare Ranges, this storybook lodge combines the ambiance of a European castle with sweeping views of Laikipia’s wild plains. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a weekend escape from Nairobi, or a unique destination wedding, Tafaria Castle offers a refreshing break from the ordinary.
Location and How to Get There
Tafaria Castle is located in Nyandarua County, near the town of Nyahururu, just off the Nyeri-Nyahururu road. It’s approximately a 3.5 to 4-hour drive from Nairobi via Nyeri or Gilgil. The drive offers stunning views of Mount Kenya and the Aberdares, and you’ll enjoy scenic countryside, tea plantations, and open highlands all the way to the castle gates.
Directions from Nairobi:
- Via Nyeri: Nairobi > Thika Superhighway > Nyeri > Mweiga > Nyahururu > Tafaria
- Via Gilgil: Nairobi > Naivasha > Gilgil > Ol Kalou > Nyahururu > Tafaria
Signage is clear near the entrance, and the last stretch is well-maintained gravel. It’s advisable to use a 4x4 during the rainy season.
A Castle Like No Other in Kenya
What makes Tafaria Castle so unique is its architectural inspiration — a full-fledged stone castle perched atop a hill with turrets, towers, a moat-like entrance, and knight sculptures. The surrounding landscapes stretch out into Laikipia and the Aberdare conservancies, giving guests panoramic views that feel like something from a dream.
The castle’s charm lies not just in its aesthetic, but also in its ability to immerse guests into a regal, imaginative world. Whether you’re staying in one of the castle suites or the outer lodges, the experience is both whimsical and serene.
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Accommodation at Tafaria Castle
Tafaria Castle Lodge offers a variety of themed rooms and cottages designed to match its medieval aesthetic while catering to different budgets and group sizes. Whether you're seeking a romantic retreat, a family escape, or a unique group getaway, each space at Tafaria tells a story.
The Castle Rooms: Royal Suite, Lord’s Room, and the Chamber
Nestled within the iconic castle building, these rooms offer the most opulent experience. The Royal Suite features a four-poster bed, vintage furniture, a cozy fireplace, and a private balcony that opens to panoramic highland views. The Lord’s Room and the Chamber are equally atmospheric, ideal for couples seeking an immersive medieval fantasy wrapped in modern-day comfort.
The Damsels’ Quarters
These elegant and cozy rooms are tucked into the castle’s interior. Ideal for solo travelers or couples, the Damsels’ Quarters offer serene countryside views, minimalist medieval decor, and an intimate atmosphere perfect for quiet retreats.
The Vikings’ Quarters and Knights’ Quarters
Located in the outer court, these cottages are designed for families or groups. Each unit is spacious and individually styled, featuring bold medieval elements, high wooden ceilings, fireplaces, and expansive windows that draw in the natural light and the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
The Lost Knights’ Quarters and Moat Cottages
For those who prefer privacy and seclusion, these accommodations offer a more rustic yet luxurious ambiance. Surrounded by green lawns and moats, these spaces are perfect for honeymooners or travelers seeking solitude with a touch of nobility.
Every room and cottage at Tafaria Castle includes ensuite bathrooms, hot showers, plush bedding, and curated furnishings that strike the perfect balance between old-world elegance and modern comfort. Select rooms also come with private terraces offering stunning, uninterrupted views of the Aberdare Ranges and open sky.
Tafaria Castle Entrance Fee for Day Visitors
You don’t have to stay overnight to enjoy Tafaria. Day visits are welcome with an entry fee that allows guests to explore the grounds, take photos, and enjoy a meal or activity.
- Day visit fee (adult): Approx. KES 1,500
- Children: Approx. KES 1,000
This fee usually covers access to the grounds, castle courtyard, art gallery, and selected activities like garden walks and archery. Meals and additional experiences are charged separately.
Things to Do at Tafaria Castle
Tafaria Castle isn’t just about majestic views and fairy tale architecture — it offers a wide variety of activities for couples, families, solo travelers, and corporate groups. Whether you're seeking romance, adventure, or pure relaxation, this mountaintop retreat has something for everyone.
Horse Riding
One of the most scenic ways to experience the castle’s hilltop surroundings is on horseback. Tafaria Castle offers well-trained horses and guided rides that allow you to explore the expansive estate. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a beginner, the experience is relaxing and visually stunning, with panoramic views of the Aberdare Ranges and Laikipia Plains.
Archery and Board Games
Channel your inner knight or maiden with a classic archery experience right on the castle grounds. Instructors are on-site to guide first-timers. For those who prefer indoor entertainment, Tafaria’s games room is stocked with board games, darts, and a pool table, offering a cozy space to unwind with friends or family.
Swimming Pool
Tafaria Castle’s heated outdoor pool is a tranquil oasis nestled near the outer lodges. It’s ideal for a midday swim after breakfast at the Lord’s Table or a lazy afternoon under the highland sun. Poolside loungers and scenic views create the perfect atmosphere for rest and rejuvenation.
Nature Walks and Bird Watching
The castle’s location in Nyandarua County is rich in flora and fauna. Guests can enjoy guided or self-guided nature walks along forested trails and open fields. Bird watchers will be delighted by the chance to spot several indigenous and migratory bird species, especially in the early mornings or at sunset.
Castle Tours and Photo Sessions
Tafaria Castle invites guests and day visitors to take guided castle tours that highlight its architecture, history, and inspiration behind the medieval design. These tours often include access to the dungeons, towers, art gallery, and scenic balconies — all of which are excellent photo spots. If you're planning a proposal or a romantic photo shoot, this is one of Kenya’s most photogenic locations.
Camel Rides and Picnics
Tafaria offers camel rides across the estate for children and adults alike — a fun and memorable activity that brings a unique twist to your highland escape. Guests can also arrange picnic lunches on the lawns or under the shade of trees, complete with castle views and gourmet food prepared by the lodge’s kitchen.
The Tafaria Art Gallery
For lovers of culture and creativity, the castle’s on-site art gallery is a must-visit. It features works from both established and emerging Kenyan artists. Exhibitions often focus on themes of heritage, wildlife, and identity. Workshops and live art sessions are sometimes held, giving guests the opportunity to engage directly with artists.
Tafaria Castle Menu and Dining Experience
Dining at Tafaria Castle is a refined experience. The main dining hall feels like a banquet room from an old royal court, with high ceilings, chandeliers, and panoramic views of the valley.
The menu is a blend of continental and Kenyan cuisine, featuring:
- Grilled meats and fresh fish
- Garden-fresh vegetables and soups
- Artisan pastries and desserts
- Signature wines, cocktails, and juices
Breakfasts include fresh fruits, pastries, eggs, and fresh coffee, while dinner is a more curated, three-course meal. Special dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice.
Outdoor dining setups are available on request — perfect for romantic evenings or special celebrations.
Weddings and Events at Tafaria
Tafaria Castle is among the top wedding venues in Kenya for couples seeking a fairytale setting. The manicured lawns, turrets, and panoramic views make for stunning photo ops and unforgettable ceremonies.
Wedding packages include venue hire, full board accommodation for guests, catering, decor, bridal suite use, and more. The venue can also host conferences, corporate retreats, and wellness getaways.
Tafaria Castle Photos and Instagram Moments
Few places in Kenya are as photogenic as Tafaria. Guests frequently share shots of:
- The iconic castle tower framed by sunrise
- The knight statues guarding the entrance
- Romantic terrace views with sunset backdrops
- Horseback rides and royal costumes
- Wedding portraits with a fantasy-like ambiance
For content creators and influencers, the castle provides a treasure trove of content opportunities with unique visual appeal.
Who Owns Tafaria Castle?
Tafaria Castle is a privately owned estate established by George Tafaria Gichuru, a Kenyan entrepreneur and philanthropist. The concept was born from his vision of creating a highland retreat that blends culture, education, and tourism.
The lodge not only supports tourism but also contributes to community development through training programs and art mentorships, especially through the Tafaria Centre for the Arts.
Ideal Time to Visit Tafaria Castle
Tafaria is open all year round, but the best time to visit is during the dry months — January to March and July to October. These periods offer clearer skies, better views of the Aberdares, and ideal weather for outdoor activities.
During the rainy seasons (April–May and November), the area is lush and beautiful but roads may require 4x4 vehicles.
What to Pack
- Warm clothes for the cool highland evenings
- Comfortable shoes for walking
- Swimsuit for the heated pool
- Camera or smartphone for photography
- Sunscreen and a hat if planning nature walks or horseback riding
Contact and Booking Information
To book your stay at Tafaria Castle or inquire about rates, availability, and packages, use the details below:
Phone: +254 799 863 970
Email: [email protected]
Our team will be happy to assist you in planning a memorable experience at this unique destination.
Its another world at Tafaria
Tafaria Castle is more than just a lodge — it’s a complete experience. From the magical architecture to the immersive activities, gourmet meals, and tranquil highland views, it’s a destination that excites your imagination and nourishes your soul. Whether you're planning a quiet escape or an unforgettable celebration, Tafaria promises a royal experience in the heart of Kenya.
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Highlights
- Easily accessible by road or air.
- Picturesque serene location.
- The perfect experience for adventurers!
- Great Dining options local cuisine and international cuisine.
- Explore enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing.
- 5* Hospitality
What are the 2026 Prices for Tafaria Castle and Country Lodge?
Here are Tafaria Castle and Country Lodge Resident Rates:
What Does PPS Mean? PPS (Per Person Sharing) means cost Per Adult when sharing the Room with another. Example KES 10,000/- PPS means, 2 Adults in 1 Room pay KES 20,000/-
Tafaria Castle and Country Lodge Prices
| Standard Room Prices Full Board (FB) Damsels/Knights Manor/Vikings |
Double/Twin Sharing |
Single Occupancy |
| 1st Aug 2026 – 23rd Dec 2026 | KES 12,200/- PPS | KES 15,600/- PP |
| 24th Dec 2026 – 26th Dec 2026 Min: 2 Nights |
KES 16,200/- PPS | KES 19,600/- PP |
| 27th Dec 2026 – 30th Dec 2026 | KES 12,200/- PPS | KES 15,600/- PP |
| 31st Dec 2026 | KES 16,200/- PPS | KES 19,600/- PP |
| 1st Jan 2027 – 3rd Jan 2027 | KES 12,200/- PPS | KES 15,600/- PP |
Tafaria Castle Prices
Prices/Rates are in KES, Per Person Sharing (Full Board), Per Night
Rates Exclude: Drinks and other Extras
Tafaria Castle Child Rates/Policy:
Up to 3.9 yrs, Sharing with Adults(same bed): FREE | Baby cot: KES 1,000/- Per Night
Children (4 yrs – 11 yrs) in own Room: 80% of Adult Rate, Per Night
Children (4 yrs – 11 yrs), Sharing Adults: KES 6,500/- Per Child Sharing (Full Board with Extra Bed)
Children (4 yrs – 11 yrs) Supplement (24th Dec – 26th Dec, 31st Dec 2026): Add KES 2,000/- Per Child, Per Night
12 years and above: Adult Rates apply
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Which Rooms Types are in Tafaria Castle and Country Lodge?
Tafaria Castle Rooms
Tafaria Castle has 72 rooms in various residential quarters.
At the center of Tafaria Castle and Country Lodge is the main Castle. In the castle is the coveted Lord’s room which is ideal for honey-mooners or those looking for extra luxury. It has some of the best views and you don’t have to walk far to access the amenities at Tafaria Castle.
Main Castle at Tafaria Castle also houses Lord’s Court which has 7 rooms. The Lord‘s Room & Court overlooks the Castle‘s 4 residential quarters, perfect if you would like that extra space.
Tafaria Castle and Country Lodge offers the option of tented accommodation. The Luxurious Vikings‘ Quarters are great if you fancy being tented in or just want some extra adventure.
If you have a family or prefer even more space, the Lost Knights‘ Quarters, the Old House which is a 3-bedroomed cottage or the Damsels‘ Plus which are bigger rooms with connecting doors will provide you with that spacious accommodation at Tafaria Castle and Country Lodge.
The Lords Room
The suite is inside the castle, has two rooms inside a sitting room and a bedroom, spacious ensuite bathroom with a bathtub, ideal for honeymooners, DSTV and a balcony overlooking Mt Kenya, the Castle and Aberdares, complementary tea and coffee. Staying in this room makes you the Castle’s Lord of the day and comes with a bottle of house wine, Fruit Basket, a horse ride and free room service.
The Lords Court
Spacious superior rooms inside the Castle, accommodates upto 4 beds, DSTV and Balcony overlooking the swimming pool, Mt Kenya, the Dream Garden or the Aberdares, complementary tea and coffee.
The Chamber
This private suite is inside the Castle and is a large and cozy room with a sitting area, study and bath tab. Ideal for honeymooners.
Damsel Quarters
Optimally sized standard rooms, two rooms facing each other and ideal for those who want to stay in close proximity to each other, ensuite bathroom, complementary tea and coffee, DSTV and patio overlooking the scenic Aberdares.
Knights Quarters
Standard stand-alone rooms which accommodates upto 3 single beds, ensuite bathroom, complementary tea and coffee, DSTV and patio overlooking the scenic Aberdares.
Damsel Plus Quarters
Large rooms with a capacity of upto 4 single beds with interconnecting doors, ideal for families, ensuite bathroom, fire place, complementary tea and coffee.
The Enclaves
Large rooms with a capacity of upto 4 single beds with interconnecting doors, Each set has four rooms facing each other and ideal for families, ensuite bathroom, DSTV complementary tea and coffee.
Manor house
Two interconnected rooms and ideal for a family, ensuite bathroom, DSTV, complementary tea and coffee.
Viking Quarters
Luxury tents for those looking for countryside minimalism. Wagon beds with an indoor sitting area overlooking knights quarters and the Aberdares. Fits a spare bed and ideal for a couple with a small kid. Ensuite bathroom, complementary tea and coffee.
Lost Knight
Spacious deluxe cottages with a sitting area, fits upto 3 single beds, a fireplace, DSTV and patio overlooking Mt Kenya, the Castle and Aberdares, complementary tea and coffee.
Old House
A 3-bedroomed family suite with a common sitting room, a fire place, DSTV, private compound, balcony overlooking Mt Kenya, the Castle and Aberdares, ensuite bathrooms, private compound and parking, complimentary tea and coffee.
What are the Foods & Drinks options at Tafaria Castle and Country Lodge?
Tafaria Castle offers a mix of local and international cuisine, using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. The on-site restaurant, The Great Rift Valley, serves a range of dishes including grilled meats, salads, soups, and vegetarian options. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating areas, and guests can enjoy stunning views of the Aberdare Mountains while they dine.
The hotel also has a bar, The Round Table Bar, which serves a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including local and imported wines, beers, and spirits. The bar has a cozy atmosphere with a fireplace, making it a perfect spot to relax and unwind.
For guests who prefer to dine in the privacy of their rooms, the hotel offers room service, and guests can order from a menu of snacks and light meals.
Tafaria Castle offers a range of dining options to suit different tastes and preferences, and the chefs are happy to accommodate any dietary restrictions or preferences guests may have.
Which Hotel Facities are available for guests at Tafaria Castle and Country Lodge?
Tafaria Castle offers a range of facilities to make guests' stays comfortable and enjoyable. Some of the facilities include:
- Accommodation: The hotel has 33 rooms, each uniquely decorated and named after a different medieval castle. The rooms are spacious and feature modern amenities such as en-suite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi.
- Restaurant and Bar: The hotel has an on-site restaurant, The Great Rift Valley, which serves a mix of local and international cuisine. The hotel also has a bar, The Round Table Bar, which serves a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Outdoor Swimming Pool: The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool that guests can use to relax and cool off.
- Spa: The hotel has a spa, where guests can enjoy a range of treatments including massages, facials, and body treatments.
- Gardens: Tafaria Castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens, which guests can explore and enjoy.
- Conference Facilities: The hotel has conference facilities that can accommodate up to 100 people, making it a perfect location for business meetings and events.
- Art Gallery: Tafaria Castle has a collection of contemporary African art, and guests can take a tour of the hotel's art gallery and learn about the artists and their work.
- Outdoor Cinema: The hotel has an outdoor cinema, where guests can watch movies under the stars.
- Wi-Fi: The hotel offers free Wi-Fi throughout the property, making it easy for guests to stay connected.
Which Hotel Activities are available for guests at Tafaria Castle and Country Lodge?
Tafaria Castle is a fun place to be with loads of activities to keep you and your family happy and engaged during your stay. Here are a few of them that can be organized while at Tafaria Castle. Some of the activities come at at fee.
- Swimming: The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool that guests can use to cool off and relax.
- Picnic to Aberdare Park: The hotel can arrange a picnic to the nearby Aberdare National Park, where guests can enjoy the natural beauty of the park while having a picnic lunch.
- Horse Chariot Riding: Guests can take a ride in a horse-drawn chariot, enjoying the scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
- Bird Watching: The hotel is surrounded by beautiful gardens and natural landscapes, making it a perfect spot for bird watching.
- Outdoor Yoga: Guests can take part in outdoor yoga classes, which take place in the hotel's gardens or other scenic locations on the estate.
- Horse Riding: Guests can go horse riding, either around the estate or on longer trails through the surrounding countryside.
- Game Drives: The hotel can arrange game drives to nearby wildlife reserves and national parks, where guests can see a variety of animals including elephants, giraffes, and lions.
- Jogging: The hotel has jogging trails around the estate for guests who want to keep fit while enjoying the outdoors.
- Archery: The hotel has an archery range, where guests can try their hand at this traditional sport.
- Cycling: Guests can go cycling around the estate or on nearby trails, enjoying the scenic views and fresh air.
- Hiking: The Aberdare Mountains offer a range of hiking trails, and the hotel can arrange guided hikes for guests of all levels.
- Cinema: The hotel has an outdoor cinema, where guests can watch movies under the stars.
- Art Tour: Tafaria Castle has a collection of contemporary African art, and guests can take a tour of the hotel's art gallery and learn about the artists and their work.
Weddings and Conferencing at Tafaria Castle and Country Lodge
Weddings
Tafaria Castle has expansive gardens and the perfect backdrop for most important day of your Life; the splendid Castle overlooking Mt Kenya and Aberdare ranges. The bride and the groom are chauffeured around Tafaria’s extensive grounds in a horse drawn chariot. The first night for the couple is and spent in the luxurious Lord’s room. Weddings at Tafaria Castle are special.
The Tafaria Castle’s ballroom is available for your evening party. No need for your guests to leave in a hurry!
Conferencing
Tafaria Castle offers some of the best venues for conferencing in Central Kenya. The serene and calm surroundings always spark creativity. Tafaria Castle is the unique destination for companies that require something out of the ordinary.
Tafaria Castle will offer you a choice of different venues – indoors and our doors for your meetings and team building activities.
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