Beyond Kenya Safaris

Nestled on the lush slopes of Mweiga Hill in the Aberdare Highlands lies a property that feels less like a hotel and more like stepping back in time to a gentler era. The Aberdare Country Club is more than just a place to stay; it is a national heritage site that offers a unique blend of colonial charm, breathtaking scenery, and unparalleled access to some of Kenya’s most underrated wilderness areas.

For travelers seeking a retreat from the bustling capital or a strategic stopover between Laikipia and the Rift Valley lakes, this country club presents a compelling option. At Beyond Kenya Safaris, we specialize in crafting journeys that go beyond the ordinary, and we believe this haven in the hills perfectly encapsulates the serene beauty of Kenya’s central highlands .

The Aberdare Country Club is steeped in history. The site was originally the homestead of an English couple who settled in Kenya, a home they named “The Steep.” Almost a half-century later, this private residence was transformed into the Aberdare Country Club and opened its doors to guests .

Considered a heritage property in Kenya, the club has meticulously retained the nostalgic atmosphere of a private home combined with the simple comforts of a country inn. As author Monty Brown wrote in his book Haven Under the Hill, “Today, despite the fast-changing tempo of the outside world, the old home still retains that comfortable, solid feeling based on traditions from a time when life proceeded at a far more leisurely and gentle pace” . This sentiment is palpable the moment you step into the rambling clubhouse, with its polished timber floors, exposed roof beams, and inviting lounge centered around a magnificent open fireplace .

Location and Accessibility: A Scenic 3-Hour Drive

One of the key advantages of the Aberdare Country Club is its accessibility. Located approximately 180 to 190 kilometers northeast of Nairobi, it is easily reachable by road .

• By Road: The drive takes roughly 2.5 to 3 hours via the Thika Superhighway through Karatina to Mweiga . The journey itself is a scenic preamble to the highlands, offering views of the changing landscape as you ascend.
• By Air: For those looking to save time, charter flights are available from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Nanyuki Airstrip (about a 45-minute flight), followed by a 45-minute drive (approx. 32 km) to the club . There is also a closer option, the Mweiga Airstrip, located just 12 km from the lodge .

Accommodation: Heritage Charm Meets Modern Comfort

The accommodation at Aberdare Country Club is spread across the lush gardens in the form of charming stone cottages. These cottages vary in size, featuring one, two, or three-bedroom configurations, and even a large family cottage with a private veranda that sleeps up to five .

While the décor ranges from old-fashioned country simplicity to more modern touches, all rooms feature en-suite bathrooms. To cater to different needs, the club offers several categories, including Classic Cottages and Superior Cottages, ensuring a selection that suits various budgets and group sizes . The “Nursery” section of the property, for example, comprises five rooms including a special needs room, highlighting the property’s commitment to inclusivity .

Guests should be aware that due to the hilly terrain, some cottages are set on slopes; those with mobility concerns should request a room closer to the main building .

Unique Wildlife Sanctuary: A Safari Before the Safari

Perhaps one of the most distinctive features of the Aberdare Country Club is its location within a five-square-kilometre private nature sanctuary . The drive from the main gate to the reception is often an unforgettable introduction to the property, with guests frequently encountering herds of zebra, impala, warthogs, and waterbuck grazing peacefully on the expansive lawns .

This private sanctuary allows guests to enjoy game viewing immediately upon arrival, a perk that sets the Aberdare Country Club apart from many other highland retreats. On clear days, the views are simply spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the Aberdare Ranges to the west and the snow-capped peak of Mount Kenya to the east .

Dining and Facilities

The main clubhouse serves as the heart of the property, featuring an elegant main dining room and a wraparound covered terrace for al fresco dining with views of the heated swimming pool and manicured lawns . Guest reviews often highlight the fantastic food and the friendly, helpful staff, with many mentioning the special touch of hot water bottles brought to the beds each evening . While some feedback suggests that the food offerings can occasionally be inconsistent or the buffet choices limited, the overall sentiment points to a satisfactory dining experience with a mix of local and international cuisine .

Facilities include:

• Heated Swimming Pool: A welcome amenity given the cooler highland temperatures.
• Spa: Offering beauty treatments, massages, a gym, steam bath, and sauna .
• 9-Hole Golf Course: A scenic course where you may have to give way to grazing zebra and warthog .
• Tennis Courts: For sporty guests .

Activities: Highlands Adventures

The Aberdare Country Club serves as an excellent base for a wide range of activities, both within the estate and further afield .

On-Site Estate Activities:

• Horse Riding: Explore the sanctuary on horseback .
• Mountain Biking & Hiking: Trails through the private sanctuary offer superb bird-watching and nature walks .
• Golf and Tennis .

Excursions Further Afield:

• Aberdare National Park: A major draw, this park is known for its high-altitude landscapes, waterfalls, and unique flora and fauna . A full-day safari drive here is highly recommended for wildlife enthusiasts .
• Solio Game Ranch: Famous for its successful black and white rhino conservation programs, this ranch is a must-visit for a safari drive .
• Ol Pejeta Conservancy: Home to the Chimpanzee Sanctuary and the last two northern white rhinos, this is a prime destination for conservation-focused travelers .

Suggested Itineraries:

• 3 Days: Combine a morning walk in the club’s sanctuary with horse riding and a safari drive to Solio Game Ranch .
• 5 Days: Enjoy a full-day safari in Aberdare National Park, bird watching, nature walks, and spa activities .
• 6 Days: Take a full-day visit to Ol Pejeta Conservancy to view the chimpanzees .

Why Book with Beyond Kenya Safaris?

As a family-owned company based in Nairobi since 2006, Beyond Kenya Safaris understands the nuances of Kenyan hospitality. We treat our guests as part of our extended family . With our expert team, we craft seamless travel experiences, from airport pickup to private charters or scenic road safaris.

We believe the magic of Kenya should be accessible without compromising quality, which is why we ensure our clients get the best possible value at properties like the Aberdare Country Club . We handle the logistics, allowing you to focus on the experience . The Aberdare Country Club aligns perfectly with our philosophy of “Crafting unforgettable safaris across Kenya since 2006,” providing a peaceful and character-rich environment to complement the classic safari experience .

Aberdare Country Club Prices (2026)

Below is a indicative guide to the rates (subject to change). Beyond Kenya Safaris ensures transparent pricing and the best available rates .

Room Category	Meal Plan	Low Season	Shoulder Season	High Season
Classic Room (Double)	Full Board	$221	$287	$315
Classic Room (Double)	Half Board	$191	$257	$285
Signature Room (Double)	Full Board	$363	$472	$520

Plan Your Highland Getaway Today

The Aberdare Country Club offers a nostalgic and peaceful retreat in the heart of the Aberdare Highlands. Whether you are looking to relax by the fireplace with a book, explore the misty forests of the Aberdares, or enjoy an afternoon of golf with zebras in the background, this heritage property offers an experience unique to Kenya.

Contact Beyond Kenya Safaris to arrange your tailor-made stay. Your adventure is more than just a trip—it’s a story waiting to be lived, shared, and remembered forever.