Aberdare Country Club – Nyeri
Description
Aberdare Country Club is one of Kenya’s most historic and elegant highland lodges. Set on a 1,300-acre private sanctuary in Nyeri County, this colonial-era property blends heritage charm with modern comfort. It is the perfect base for weekend getaways, family holidays, corporate retreats, or a pre-safari stop.
With sweeping views of Mount Kenya, the rolling plains of Solio Ranch, and abundant wildlife, the lodge offers a tranquil and immersive Kenyan countryside experience. This guide covers everything travelers need to know for a highland retreat, safari base, or luxury getaway in central Kenya.
Location – Where to Find Aberdare Country Club
Located in Mweiga, Nyeri County, Aberdare Country Club sits about 180 km north of Nairobi at an altitude of 7,000 feet. The highland climate is cool and refreshing, with lush forests and misty mornings – a peaceful escape from city life.
Nearby landmarks and travel times:
- Nairobi to Aberdare Country Club: 2.5–3.5 hours by road
- Nyeri Town: 14 km (20 minutes)
- Aberdare National Park (Ark Gate): 10 minutes
- Solio Ranch: 30–40 minutes
The lodge lies within a private wildlife conservancy, so guests often spot zebras, giraffes, peacocks, warthogs, and antelopes roaming freely.
History & Heritage – A Colonial-Era Highland Lodge
Aberdare Country Club was built in the 1930s as a private home for British settlers associated with Lord Baden-Powell. Originally called “The Steep”, it later became a premier country lodge, attracting diplomats, safari travelers, and heritage enthusiasts.
The architecture features classic English country style:
- Stone walls and thick timber beams
- Fireplaces in common areas and select rooms
- Manicured lawns and flower gardens
- A seamless blend of colonial charm and modern amenities
Today, the lodge is a recognized heritage highland retreat, offering a mix of history, comfort, and wildlife immersion.
Accommodation – Rooms, Cottages & Suites
Aberdare Country Club has accommodation to suit families, couples, and groups. Each space combines historic charm with modern comforts.
Standard Rooms
- Located in the main building or garden wings
- Double or twin beds, en-suite bathrooms
- Select units include fireplaces
- Garden views and classic furnishings
- Ideal for couples or solo travelers
Cottages
- One-, two-, or three-bedroom options
- Separate living rooms with fireplaces
- Private verandas, high ceilings, and timber décor
- Perfect for families or longer stays
Suites
- Spacious bedrooms with king beds
- Lounge areas with fireplaces
- Premium amenities and large bathrooms
- Ideal for honeymooners or luxury travelers
Rates & Packages – 2025/2026 Guide
Rates vary by season, room type, and resident status. Options include:
- Bed & Breakfast (BB)
- Half Board (HB)
- Full Board (FB)
- Full Safari Packages combining the lodge, The Ark Lodge, park fees, and guided game drives
Packages can be customized for:
- Families
- Couples
- Corporate retreats
- Safari itineraries across Central Kenya
Tip: Peak seasons (Christmas, Easter, school holidays) require early bookings.
Dining Experience – Highland & Bush Cuisine
Aberdare Country Club offers authentic highland dining, blending classic British-country dishes with fresh local produce.
Main Restaurant
- Buffet and à la carte options
- Continental breakfasts, fresh salads, roasted meats and vegetables
- International and Kenyan dishes
Lounge & Terrace
- Afternoon tea beside the fireplace
- Scenic sundowners
Bush Dining Experiences
- Bush breakfasts and lunches in the wilderness
- Garden barbecue dinners on request
These options let guests enjoy freshly prepared meals amid stunning highland scenery.
Activities at Aberdare Country Club
The lodge offers a wide range of activities suitable for all travelers.
Nature Walks & Hiking
- Guided walks through forests, hills, and wildlife-rich areas
- Wildlife sightings: giraffes, zebras, warthogs, impalas
- Birdwatching: over 250 species
Horseback Riding
- Unique rides through the lodge’s private wildlife sanctuary
- Suitable for beginners and experienced riders
- Sunset rides with wildlife spotting
Golf
- Nine-hole highland course
- Gentle slopes and forested edges
- Casual and practice rounds
Tennis, Swimming & Croquet
- Heated outdoor swimming pool
- Tennis courts and croquet lawns
- Additional activities: badminton, board games
Bird Watching
- Over 250 species including sunbirds, turacos, hornbills, and peacocks
- Guided birdwatching tours and early morning excursions
Garden Relaxation
- Scenic gardens ideal for sunbathing, reading, and photography
- Outdoor verandas and lounge areas
Safari & Excursions from Aberdare Country Club
Aberdare National Park
- Dense forests, misty valleys, moorlands, waterfalls
- Wildlife: elephants, buffalo, black rhino, giant forest hogs, bongo antelopes
- Birdwatching: rare highland species
The Ark Lodge
- Overnight tree-lodge safari experience
- Floodlit waterhole attracts elephants, buffalo, hyenas, and leopards
- Guests check in at the lodge and transfer to The Ark
Solio Ranch Conservancy
- Rhino sanctuary with hundreds of white and black rhinos
- Occasional sightings of lions, leopards, giraffes, and zebras
- Perfect for photography and wildlife enthusiasts
Mount Kenya Excursions
- Day hikes at the base of Mount Kenya
- Forest trails and trout fishing
- Scenic photography of alpine landscapes
Insider Safari Tips
- Sunrise walks offer the best wildlife sightings
- Best birdwatching: October to April
- Private game drives available for families and photographers
Wellness, Spa & Relaxation
- Massage rooms with professional therapists
- Sauna and steam room sessions
- Outdoor relaxation spaces with garden views
Wellness packages can be combined with safari excursions for a complete highland retreat experience.
Weddings, Corporate Events & Private Functions
Aberdare Country Club is ideal for:
- Garden and outdoor weddings
- Team-building retreats and strategy sessions
- Family reunions and corporate offsites
Facilities include conference halls, breakout rooms, landscaped gardens, and full event coordination.
Family-Friendly Highland Lodge
Families enjoy:
- Spacious cottages and kid-friendly meals
- Open lawns for safe play
- Horse riding, swimming, and nature walks
- Wildlife encounters on the property
This makes the lodge one of Kenya’s top family-friendly highland retreats.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Weather & Highlights |
|---|---|
| Jan–Mar | Warm, sunny, perfect for outdoor activities |
| Apr–Jun | Cooler with occasional rain; lush scenery |
| Jul–Oct | Clear skies, ideal for safaris and photography |
| Nov–Dec | Short rains, fresh landscapes, active wildlife |
Average temperatures: 10°C – 23°C
How to Get There
By Road from Nairobi
- Distance: ~180 km
- Duration: 2.5–3.5 hours
- Route: Thika Road → Karatina → Nyeri → Mweiga
- Roads are smooth and scenic
By Air
- Fly to Nanyuki Airstrip (1–1.5 hours to lodge)
- Private charters available on request
Transfers & Safari Packages
CityBreaks.Africa offers:
- Private road transfers and chauffeur-driven 4x4s
- Multi-destination safari packages (Aberdare → Solio → Mount Kenya → Ol Pejeta)
- Expert advice on routes and travel tips
Suggested 3-Day Highland & Safari Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival & Relaxation
- Check-in and welcome lunch
- Afternoon guided nature walk
- Evening sundowner and fireplace relaxation
Day 2 – Aberdare National Park & The Ark
- Breakfast at the lodge
- Full-day guided safari in Aberdare National Park
- Optional overnight at The Ark Lodge
- Dinner at the lodge or bush-style
Day 3 – Solio Ranch & Mount Kenya
- Morning transfer to Solio Rhino Sanctuary
- Guided game drive and photography
- Afternoon visit to Mount Kenya base for hiking or trout fishing
- Evening farewell dinner at the lodge
Optional Extensions
- Multi-day safaris to Ol Pejeta Conservancy
- Overnight stays at The Ark Lodge
- Tailored birdwatching tours
Why Aberdare Country Club Stands Out
- Historic lodge with colonial charm
- Private wildlife sanctuary on-site
- Gateway to The Ark Lodge for safari adventures
- Diverse activities: horse riding, golf, nature walks, tennis, spa
- Cool highland climate for holidays and wellness retreats
- Family- and group-friendly accommodations
- Scenic gardens perfect for photography, weddings, and relaxation
Insider Tips
- Book early during peak seasons
- Sunrise and sunset offer the best wildlife sightings
- Combine lodge stays with Solio Ranch for rhino viewing
- Request guided birdwatching sessions to spot 250+ species
- Private horse riding excursions available for a personalized experience
FAQ – Aberdare Country Club
Is it inside Aberdare National Park? No, it is in a private sanctuary just outside the park.
Is it family-friendly? Yes, with cottages, open lawns, and wildlife encounters.
How far is The Ark Lodge? ~45 minutes by transfer.
What wildlife can guests see? Zebras, giraffes, warthogs, antelopes, monkeys, peacocks, and over 250 bird species.
Are day trips to Solio Ranch available? Yes, guided game drives are offered.
Book Aberdare Country Club with CityBreaks.Africa
CityBreaks.Africa provides:
- Local expertise and tailored itineraries
- Competitive rates for families, couples, and corporate groups
- 24/7 support and reliable transfers
- Safari packages including Aberdare → Solio → Mount Kenya → Ol Pejeta
Aberdare Country Club combines heritage elegance, wildlife immersion, and the serenity of Kenya’s highlands, making it a perfect destination for romance, family holidays, corporate retreats, or safari adventures.
Highlights
What are the 2026 Prices for Aberdare Country Club – Nyeri?
Here are Aberdare Country Club – Nyeri 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/-
Aberdare Country Club – Nyeri Rates
| 2026 East African Resident Prices | HALF BOARD (HB) | FULL BOARD (FB) | ||
| Aberdare Country Club Classic Rooms |
Sharing | Single |
Sharing | Single |
| 4th Jan 2026 – 31st Mar 2026 | KES 8,300/- PPS | KES 11,700/- PP | KES 10,200/- PPS | KES 13,600/- PP |
| 1st Apr 2026 – 2nd Apr 2026 | KES 6,000/- PPS | KES 8,600/- PP | KES 7,900/- PPS | KES 10,500/- PP |
| 3rd Apr 2026 – 6th Apr 2026 Supplement, Per Room: KES 5,000/- Per Night |
KES 6,000/- PPS | KES 8,600/- PP | KES 7,900/- PPS | KES 10,500/- PP |
| 7th Apr 2026 – 15th Jun 2026 | KES 6,000/- PPS | KES 8,600/- PP | KES 7,900/- PPS | KES 10,500/- PP |
| 16th Jun 2026 – 30th Jun 2026 | KES 8,300/- PPS | KES 11,700/- PP | KES 10,200/- PPS | KES 13,600/- PP |
Hotel outside KWS Aberdare National Park
Aberdare Country Club(Nyeri) Rates/Prices are in KES, Per Person, Per Night
Rates Exclude: Drinks, other Meals and Extras
Aberdare Country Club(Nyeri) Child Policy:
0 – 2 years, Sharing with Adults: FREE
3 – 15 years Sharing with Adults: 50% of PPS
2 Children (3 – 15 yrs) in Own Room: 75% of PPS, per Child
Aberdare Country Club – Room
All the rooms at The Aberdare Country Club are in the form of cottages and one standard suite. The cottages are as follows:
– 19 Two bed room cottages, 01 Three Bedroomed Cottage, 01 Five Bedroomed Cottage, 01 Standard Suite
From the above cottages, the under listed are suitable for families, honeymooners and those wanting something extra.
– Honey Suckle, The Nursery Cottage, Kinangop Cottage, 2 Deluxe Rooms, VIP Suite
Our two deluxe rooms are set within The Nursery and the Kinangop cottages with their own doors and do not interconnect to any other room. This makes them suitable for the individuals as well as families.
Main Restaurant:
Offering first class cuisine with a selection of European, Asian and Kenyan dishes, the dining room is situated in the main building along with the lounge bar.
Picnics within the Sanctuary:
While seated and sipping your Chardonnay you can enjoy views
of Mount Kenya and Aberdares, which can only be spoiled by giraffes obscuring the view.
Lounge bar
The lounge bar has a lovely fireplace to enjoy those colder evenings. Come and relax in a warm atmosphere on the comfortable leather sofas. Enjoy your favourite tipple and chat about the day’s activities with friends and family.
Due to its expansive grounds and activities, only two and half hours from Nairobi and fifteen minutes from Nyeri town, Aberdare Country Club is well suited for many kinds of activities. These include but are not limited to:
- Conferences and meetings.
- Team Building or bonding Activities.
- Corporate Functions including golf tournaments and product launch.
- Bush breakfast, lunch, dinner or Sundowner.
- Schools and Children outings.
The Aberdare Country Club in Nyeri, Kenya offers a range of facilities to ensure guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Here are some of the main facilities available:
- Accommodations: The resort offers a variety of accommodations, including cottages, suites, and rooms, all of which are designed to provide guests with comfort and luxury during their stay.
- Dining: The resort has several dining options, including a restaurant that serves a range of international and local cuisines, a bar, and a coffee shop.
- Swimming pool: The resort features a swimming pool where guests can relax and unwind while enjoying the beautiful views of the Aberdare Mountains.
- Spa and wellness center: The resort's spa offers a range of treatments and services, including massages, facials, and body treatments, to help guests relax and rejuvenate.
- Fitness center: The resort has a fitness center equipped with a range of cardio and weight training equipment, allowing guests to stay active during their stay.
- Tennis court: The resort has a tennis court where guests can enjoy a game of tennis.
- Horse riding: The resort has a horse riding facility, offering guests the opportunity to explore the Aberdare Mountains on horseback.
- Conference facilities: The resort has conference facilities that can accommodate up to 100 people, making it an ideal venue for meetings and events.
- Game drives and guided walks: The resort offers game drives and guided walks through the Aberdare National Park, allowing guests to experience the natural beauty of the park and its wildlife.
The Aberdare Country Club in Nyeri, Kenya offers a range of activities for guests to enjoy during their stay. Here are some of the main activities available:
- Game drives: The resort offers game drives through the Aberdare National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffalos, leopards, and hyenas. Guests can take a guided tour and observe these animals in their natural habitat.
- Guided walks: Guests can take a guided walk through the Aberdare National Park and explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region. The guided walks can be customized to suit the interests and fitness levels of the guests.
- Birdwatching: The Aberdare National Park is home to over 290 bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Guests can take a guided tour and spot different bird species during their stay.
- Horse riding: The resort has a horse riding facility, offering guests the opportunity to explore the Aberdare Mountains on horseback. Experienced guides lead the rides and provide information about the area.
- Golf: The resort has a nine-hole golf course, which is ideal for golf enthusiasts who want to enjoy a round of golf surrounded by scenic views of the Aberdare Mountains.
- Tennis: The resort has a tennis court, which is ideal for guests who want to play a game of tennis and stay active during their stay.
- Swimming: The resort has a swimming pool, where guests can relax and unwind while enjoying the beautiful views of the Aberdare Mountains.
- Spa treatments: The resort's spa offers a range of treatments and services, including massages, facials, and body treatments, to help guests relax and rejuvenate.
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