Purple Tea Farm Tour from Nairobi – Explore Gatura Greens

Planning a trip from Nairobi and looking for something beyond the usual safaris? A day at Gatura Greens offers a fascinating glimpse into Kenya’s tea culture, combined with natural beauty and interactive experiences. This tour is ideal for curious travelers who want to see how high-quality Kenyan tea is made and enjoy scenic countryside views.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the chance to learn the entire tea-making process firsthand, from hand-picking leaves to roasting them ourselves. The variety of over 10 teas sampled, including the rare purple tea, is a real treat. Plus, the waterfall trek and bamboo forest add a peaceful, nature-filled element.

That said, a potential consideration is the need for a reasonable level of mobility to enjoy the farm activities and waterfall walk comfortably. The tour generally appeals to those who appreciate authentic, hands-on experiences coupled with beautiful scenery.

This experience suits travelers interested in Kenyan culture, tea enthusiasts, and outdoor lovers seeking a relaxed, yet engaging day trip from Nairobi.

Key Points

• Authentic Craftsmanship: You’ll witness and participate in the entire tea production process.
• Tasting Variety: Over 10 different teas, including the vividly purple variety, are available for sampling.
• Natural Beauty: A walk through bamboo forests to a waterfall offers peaceful scenic views.
• Hands-On Experience: Picking tea leaves and creating your own blend makes it memorable.
• Local Cuisine: Enjoy a farm-fresh three-course meal in a rustic farmhouse setting.
• Convenience: Hotel or airport pickup and drop-off streamline your day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Gatura Greens Tour

Starting the Journey: From Nairobi to the Highlands

Your adventure begins with a comfortable pickup from your Nairobi hotel or the airport. The scenic drive to Gatura Greens highlands offers glimpses of Kenya’s lush landscapes, rolling hills, and small rural towns. The roughly 2-3 hour journey is well-paced, giving you time to settle in and start getting excited about what’s ahead.

Welcoming Introduction and Farm Overview

Upon arrival, you’ll meet your guide—likely a knowledgeable local familiar with the farm’s history. Gatura Greens prides itself on sustainable practices and traditional methods, which your guide will share during your introduction. Expect a friendly, personal vibe; reviews note guides like George as being particularly helpful and engaging.

Tea Tasting and Cultivation Insights

One of the tour’s highlights is the tea tasting session, where you’ll sample more than 10 varieties of tea. This includes the vibrant purple tea—an eye-catching and rare tea type grown on the farm, known for its health benefits and unique flavor profile. As you sip, you’ll learn about the different aromas and what makes Kenyan tea world-renowned.

Guests have appreciated the depth of knowledge from guides. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide, Peter, explained the entire process from planting to packaging, making it both educational and enjoyable.” The tasting isn’t just about flavor; it’s about appreciating the craftsmanship behind each cup.

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Hands-On Tea Production Experience

Next, you’ll head into the fields for tea leaf hand-picking, an activity that often surprises visitors. Picking the tender, fresh leaves gives you an appreciation for the labor involved in tea production. The farm emphasizes traditional methods, so expect to see hand-rolling and roasting processes in action—offering a real connection to Kenyan tea traditions.

A special moment for many is creating your own personalized tea blend to take home. This keepsake serves as a tangible memory of your time at Gatura Greens and the craftsmanship involved.

Scenic Bamboo Forest and Waterfall Trek

After the farm activities, a short walk through a bamboo forest sets a tranquil tone. Visitors describe this part of the tour as “peaceful and refreshing,” with lush greenery providing shade and a sense of escape from busy Nairobi.

The trail then leads to a breathtaking waterfall, where the sound of rushing water and vibrant surroundings create a perfect photo backdrop. Several visitors mention stopping for a few moments of quiet reflection or snapping memorable pictures. The waterfall trail is generally gentle, but those with mobility issues should consider their comfort level—some reviews highlight it as a scenic but slightly uneven walk.

Farm-Fresh 3-Course Meal

No farm experience is complete without good food, and Gatura Greens delivers with a three-course meal made from farm-sourced ingredients. Guests praise the freshness and flavorful presentation. The farmhouse setting offers stunning views of the highlands, adding to the relaxed, rustic atmosphere. It’s a perfect way to wind down and enjoy local flavors in a cozy environment.

Return to Nairobi

After a fulfilling day, your guide will escort you back to Nairobi, ensuring a smooth transfer either to your hotel or the airport. The entire tour is designed to make the transition back easy and comfortable, with plenty of time to reflect on your experience.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

Price and Value

At $150 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that includes transportation, tastings, hands-on activities, a scenic walk, and a farm-fresh meal. Considering the depth of engagement and the small group size (usually guided tours), it presents good value—especially for those keen to understand Kenya’s tea culture beyond just drinking it.

Duration and Group Size

This is a day trip, typically lasting around 6-8 hours, making it manageable for most travelers. The group size tends to be small, which enhances interaction with guides and creates a more personalized experience.

Transportation and Convenience

The tour includes hotel or airport pickup and drop-off, removing the hassle of arranging your own transport. The scenic drive itself adds to the anticipation and offers a glimpse of rural life outside Nairobi.

What to Bring

Travelers are advised to bring their passport or ID card, especially if they wish to purchase souvenirs or participate in all activities. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the waterfall trek and farm strolls.

Not Included

The farm entry fee, which covers the tea tasting, costs $30 per person, so it’s worth budgeting accordingly. Personal expenses or additional souvenirs are not included.

Accessibility and Suitability

The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or babies under 1 year, due to the walking involved and farm activities. It’s best suited for active, curious adults or older children who enjoy outdoor and cultural experiences.

Booking and Cancellation

You can reserve your spot with flexibility—pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This makes planning less stressful, especially when traveling in a dynamic itinerary.

What Reviewers Say

Many reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides, with one stating, “Our guide was fantastic—explaining each step of the process and making us feel involved.” The scenic views of the highlands and waterfall always receive praise, making the scenic aspect one of the tour’s standout features.

Some describe the experience as “educational but fun,” appreciating the hands-on tea picking and blending activities. The farm-fresh meal is frequently highlighted as a delicious end to the day, with many noting its freshness and the farm’s beautiful setting.

However, a few mention that the waterfall walk can be slightly uneven, so travelers should be prepared for a gentle hike. The feedback underscores the value of an authentic, well-rounded farm experience.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a unique window into Kenya’s thriving tea industry, blending authentic craftsmanship, stunning natural scenery, and delicious local food. It’s ideal for those who want a break from safaris and city life, seeking a more intimate look at Kenyan culture and agriculture.

With knowledgeable guides guiding you through every step, you’ll gain both insight and appreciation for the art of tea-making. The scenic waterfall hike and bamboo forest add a peaceful, restorative aspect that balances the hands-on activities perfectly.

The Gatura Greens Purple Tea Farm Tour is a well-rounded experience that combines education, nature, and local flavor. It’s perfect for curious travelers, tea enthusiasts, or anyone eager to connect with Kenya’s highland beauty—and do so in a relaxed, friendly environment.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Nairobi, making it a hassle-free day trip.

How long is the tour? Expect around 6 to 8 hours, including travel time, activities, and lunch.

What does the tour cost? It costs $150 per person, which covers most activities, tastings, and transportation. The farm entry fee for tea tasting is $30.

What should I bring? Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes for walking, and a sense of curiosity.

Is the tour suitable for children? It’s best for older children or those able to walk comfortably, as the waterfall trail may be uneven. It’s not suitable for babies under 1 year.

Can I pay later or cancel? Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

What’s included in the meal? A three-course farm-fresh meal is served in the farmhouse, with ingredients sourced directly from the farm.

Will I learn about tea production? Absolutely. Guides explain every step, from picking leaves to producing and packaging the tea.

Are guides knowledgeable? Yes, guides like George and Peter are praised for their engaging explanations and friendly approach.

In all, this tour balances authentic hands-on experiences with natural beauty and cultural insights, making it a rewarding day out from Nairobi.

You can check availability for your dates here: