Kiambethu Tea Farm Tour
Tour Price
(Price based on 2 Pax minimum)
Kiambethu Tea Farm, located in the lush hills of Limuru, Kenya, is one of the oldest tea farms in the country. Established in 1920 by the Boyd family, the farm spans over 150 acres and is renowned for its scenic beauty and rich history. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore both the agricultural and cultural aspects of tea farming, set against the backdrop of rolling green hills and dense forests. The farm is still a working tea estate, producing high-quality tea that is exported globally, while also serving as a popular tourist destination.
Visitors to Kiambethu Tea Farm can enjoy guided tours that provide a detailed insight into the tea production process. These tours take guests through the farm’s lush tea fields, where they can learn about the growing, plucking, and processing stages that culminate in the creation of the final tea product. The farm’s location at an altitude of about 2,100 meters above sea level provides the perfect climate for tea cultivation, with cool temperatures and ample rainfall throughout the year. Alongside the tea plantations, the farm is also home to an abundance of indigenous trees, wildlife, and birds, adding to its charm and ecological importance.
In addition to its agricultural focus, Kiambethu Tea Farm offers a rich cultural experience. The farm’s owners share the history of tea farming in Kenya, offering fascinating anecdotes about the early colonial era, when tea was first introduced to the region. Guests can also enjoy traditional Kenyan meals and tea tastings, making for a relaxing and immersive experience.
Kiambethu Tea Farm tour with Gemfinders Safaris is a popular day trip, offering a thrilling and immersive adventure into the world of tea farming. We take you through the beautiful, lush farm, where you’ll learn about the fascinating tea-making process, the farm’s history, and the daily rhythms of farm life. With knowledgeable guides and a chance to engage with the surroundings, this tour promises a unique blend of education and enjoyment, making it a perfect escape into nature and culture.
Itinerary
Our driver-guide will pick you up from the hotel. If you are at the hotel, please wait in the lobby. If you are at the airport, the guide will be holding a name board with your name on it.
Your day at Kiambethu Tea Farm begins with an early arrival around 8:30 AM. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the friendly staff and checked in for your visit. To kick off the day, enjoy a warm cup of tea or coffee, providing a perfect moment to relax and prepare for the experience ahead.
Your adventure begins with a guided tour of the farm. Your expert guide will introduce you to the farm’s rich history, its tea production process, and the overall role of tea cultivation in the region. As you walk through the vibrant tea fields, you’ll learn about the various stages of tea growing, from planting to harvesting. Watch a live demonstration of tea picking and gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating practice.
The tour takes you to the tea-processing area. Here, you’ll observe how freshly plucked leaves are transformed into the different types of tea the farm produces, such as black, green, and white tea. Your guide will explain the intricate machinery and the steps involved in processing the leaves, giving you a greater appreciation for the craftsmanship behind every cup of tea.
Take a leisurely nature walk along the farm’s scenic trails. The walk offers spectacular views of the Ngong Hills and the lush landscape surrounding the farm. Your guide will point out various species of plants, trees, and wildlife, and if you’re a birdwatching enthusiast, keep your eyes peeled for local birdlife.
You’ll return to the farmhouse for a tea-tasting session. Here, you’ll sample a selection of teas produced on the farm, learning the proper techniques for tasting and appreciating each variety. Your guide will walk you through the nuances of each tea, including the correct steeping times and temperatures, while you savor the distinct flavors that make Kiambethu’s tea special.
Enjoy a light, delicious lunch or snacks made from locally sourced ingredients. The meal often features fresh produce from the farm, giving you a true taste of the region. This is a perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings in the calm atmosphere of the farmhouse garden.
After lunch, your guide will dive deeper into the cultural history of Kiambethu Tea Farm. You’ll learn about the farm’s origins, the people behind it, and the significant role tea farming plays in Kenyan culture. Following this informative talk, feel free to take a quiet walk around the farm’s lovely garden, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and enjoying the scenery.
Before wrapping up your visit, head to the farm’s tea shop around 3:00 PM. Here, you can purchase some of the freshly brewed teas you’ve sampled, as well as tea accessories and souvenirs to take home. It’s a wonderful way to remember your experience at the farm and bring a piece of it with you.
It’s time to say your goodbyes. Before leaving, you may wish to enjoy one final cup of tea, reflecting on the peaceful, enriching day you’ve had. With tea in hand, you’ll head off, filled with new knowledge and a renewed appreciation for the art of tea-making.
The driver will drop you off at the hotel or airport.