Gatamaiyu evokes emotional awareness surrounding the decline of Kenya's ancient highland forests. A stunning walk through the forest takes you to a river with misty waterfalls. If you look closely, you can see fresh elephant tracks or find delicate orchids hidden in between branches. The trails feel relatively untouched, with old rickety bridges spanning the river. Gatamaiyu reveals what Kenyan highlands might have looked like a century ago. As this forest itself faces threats of deforestation, I would recommend visiting it as soon as possible. It's off the beaten path and is easily accessible from Nairobi, especially if you are already traveling towards the Aberdares or the The Forest Restaurant. Contact kamaukenvo@yahoo.com or kereitawilderness@gmail.com for more information.

This beautiful area of forest marks the southern most point of the Aberdares range, and is a large expanse of relatively undisturbed rainforest. It's only 45 minutes drive from Nairobi so ideal for a day trip. It's a community based set-up in collaboration with Kenyan Forestry Service and they have recently opened a number of hiking trails within the reserve that range from a couple of hours to up to six hours (we did a 6 hour hike to a stunning waterfall deep in the forest). Wildlife abounds, and our guide Steven (highly recommended) was excellent on the birds. All-in-all highly recommended.