Wundanyi Hills Kenya – The Hidden Gem of Taita Taveta

Nestled in the heart of Taita Taveta County, southeastern Kenya, the Wundanyi Hills are among the most scenic and least explored destinations in the country. Surrounded by lush greenery, winding roads, and cool mountain air, Wundanyi offers a refreshing escape from the hot plains below. It is one of the few places in Kenya where travelers can experience both tropical forest landscapes and panoramic views of Tsavo’s vast savannahs within a short distance.

Lush green valley with terraced fields, scattered houses, and two mountains under a bright blue sky with fluffy clouds, creating a serene landscape.

Where Are the Wundanyi Hills Located?

Wundanyi is a small town located about 40 kilometers from Voi, the main gateway to Tsavo East National Park. The town sits in the Taita Hills, part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, which extend from southern Kenya into northeastern Tanzania.

At an elevation of roughly 1,200–2,200 meters above sea level, the area enjoys a cooler and more temperate climate, making it an ideal retreat for nature lovers and hikers seeking tranquility away from Kenya’s busier tourist routes.

A Landscape of Rolling Green Hills

The Wundanyi Hills are characterized by terraced farms, thick forests, and waterfalls that create a breathtaking mosaic of green. The fertile slopes are covered with banana plantations, maize fields, and indigenous trees.

The region’s natural beauty is often compared to the central highlands of Kenya but with a more rural, untouched charm. The hills are dotted with small villages connected by narrow winding roads that offer panoramic views of the valleys below.

How to Get There

From Nairobi, travelers can take a bus or drive (approximately 6–7 hours) along the Nairobi–Mombasa Highway to Voi, then take the road to Wundanyi town. The road from Voi to Wundanyi climbs steeply into the hills, offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

For those coming from the coast, it’s an easy 3-hour drive from Mombasa. Public minibuses (matatus) operate regularly between Voi and Wundanyi.

Three hikers with backpacks and walking sticks trek a dirt path. A lush, green landscape and distant mountain under a blue sky surround them.

Top Attractions Around Wundanyi Hills

1. Ngangao Forest

Located just a few kilometers from Wundanyi town, Ngangao Forest is one of the last remaining indigenous cloud forests in the Taita Hills. It’s home to rare and endemic plant and bird species, including the Taita thrush and Taita apalis, which exist nowhere else on Earth.The forest is ideal for guided nature walks, birdwatching, and photography. Its trails lead through towering trees, misty paths, and hidden clearings that feel almost magical.

2. Wesu Rock Viewpoint

Just outside Wundanyi lies Wesu Rock, a massive granite outcrop that offers panoramic views of the Taita Hills and the plains below. The short hike to the top is worth every step—especially at sunrise or sunset when the landscape glows with golden light.

3. Mbololo Forest Reserve

Further north of Wundanyi, Mbololo Forest is another important conservation site. It’s the highest peak in the Taita Hills and contains one of the most biologically rich forest patches in Kenya. The forest is a paradise for birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, and researchers interested in biodiversity.

4. Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary

While technically outside Wundanyi, the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary (near Voi) can easily be combined with a visit to the hills. The private sanctuary borders Tsavo West National Park and hosts elephants, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. It’s also home to the luxurious Sarova Taita Hills Lodge and Salt Lick Safari Lodge, famous for their elevated viewing decks overlooking watering holes.

5. Wundanyi Waterfalls

Several small waterfalls cascade down the slopes around Wundanyi, especially after rains. These are popular with locals and provide scenic picnic spots surrounded by dense greenery. Ask local guides to direct you to Ngari Waterfalls or Wumingu Falls, two of the most accessible ones.

Culture and People of Wundanyi

The hills are home to the Taita people, one of Kenya’s smaller ethnic communities known for their rich traditions and close relationship with the land. Visitors are often welcomed warmly into local homesteads, where they can learn about Taita customs, taste traditional food such as ugali, mchicha (greens), and nyama choma, or enjoy local storytelling.

Handicrafts made from sisal, banana fiber, and wood carvings are common souvenirs. The Taita are also known for their beautiful traditional dances performed during community celebrations and festivals.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

The Wundanyi Hills enjoy a cool, mild climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 25°C (59°F–77°F). The best time to visit is between June and September or December and February, when the weather is dry and skies are clear for hiking and photography.

During the rainy seasons (March–May and October–November), the hills become lush and green, but roads can be slippery and travel slower.

Accommodation

Although Wundanyi is small, several guesthouses and eco-lodges cater to travelers:

• Taita Rocks Hotel – A comfortable hotel with good views of the hills.

• Dawida Taita Cottages – Offers homely stays surrounded by gardens and farms.

• Taita Hills Safari Lodge (Sarova) – Located near Voi, ideal for those combining hill exploration with a safari.

  
  

Camping enthusiasts can also pitch tents in designated community sites or near forest stations with prior permission.

Activities for Visitors

• Hiking and Trekking: Trails through the forests and up scenic ridges offer moderate hikes suitable for beginners and experienced walkers.

• Birdwatching: Spot endemic and rare bird species unique to the Taita Hills ecosystem.

• Photography: Capture misty forests, sunrise views from Wesu Rock, and traditional homesteads.

• Cultural Tours: Visit Taita villages, local farms, and markets for authentic interactions.

• Forest Conservation Tours: Some community groups organize educational visits focusing on reforestation and biodiversity protection.

Why Visit Wundanyi Hills

Wundanyi offers something many tourist hotspots lack—authentic tranquility. There are no large crowds, no noisy lodges, and no rush. Instead, you’ll find friendly locals, crisp mountain air, and landscapes that feel untouched. It’s the perfect destination for travelers who value slow travel, eco-tourism, and local culture.

Travel Tips

• Carry light warm clothing; mornings and evenings can be chilly.

• Hire a local guide when hiking or exploring forests for safety and knowledge.

• Bring binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching.

• Mobile network coverage is good in town but weak in forest areas.

• Support local eco-projects by purchasing handmade crafts or donating to forest conservation groups.