More and more Kenyans are flocking to Brackenhurst Botanical Garden and Forest as an alternative to Karura Forest, Kenya’s urban forest reserve.
The government’s decision to increase entry fees at Karura and to tarmac a trail has sparked uproar among regular visitors.
With activities starting from as little as Ksh250, Brackenhurst has become an affordable and refreshing escape for nature lovers seeking tranquility without breaking the bank.
Brackenhurst is a unique conference and retreat centre located in the highlands of Tigoni, just 35 kilometres (about 45 minutes) from Nairobi.
Surrounded by tea fields and forests, Brackenhurst combines modern conferencing with a century-old legacy of hospitality and conservation.
The History of Kenya’s Brackenhurst Botanical Garden
Since 2001, Brackenhurst has dedicated itself to restoring indigenous forest through eco-conscious initiatives.
In turn, it has transformed the site into Kenya’s first accredited botanic garden, while also making it one of the most inspiring destinations for conferences, retreats, and leisure.
However, the Brackenhurst story began in 1914 with the establishment of Three Trees Farm, named after three large muna trees left standing on the property.
Originally intended as a coffee farm, it soon became a retreat for British soldiers during World War I.
Over the decades, the property survived natural disasters, including an earthquake, and earned a reputation as a place of rejuvenation.
However, in 1964, the Baptist Mission of Kenya purchased it, developing the grounds into the Brackenhurst Hotel and Conference Centre. It became a hub for church groups, corporates, and adventurers, offering space for conferencing, team-building, and relaxation.
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From Farm to Forest: The Restoration Journey
By the late 20th century, Tigoni’s biodiversity had been depleted, and over 99 percent of its indigenous flora and fauna had been lost to farming and tea plantations.
In 2001, Brackenhurst partnered with Plants for Life International (PLI), an NGO founded by Mark Nicholson, to launch a 30-year restoration project.
The first phase focused on removing exotic eucalyptus, pine, and wattle trees. More than 120,000 indigenous trees were then planted across 100 hectares,
In 2006, Brackenhurst became a member of Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI).
Additionally, in 2016, it achieved Level 3 accreditation with ArbNet, a global network of arboreta and in 2021, Brackenhurst became Kenya’s first accredited botanic garden.
Today, the Brackenhurst Botanical Garden and Forest (BBGF) is managed under the Centre for Ecological Restoration–Kenya (CER-K) and Muna Tree Holdings.
Results of the Restoration
In 2015, colobus monkeys returned after an 80-year absence. Bushbabies, sykes monkeys, civet cats, mongooses, porcupines, and African clawless otters have also been sighted.
A 2019 survey revealed bird species at Brackenhurst had risen from 35 in 2000 to more than 187. The gardens now host many threatened plant species listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
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Activities and Experiences to Enjoy at Brackenhurst
Visitors can immerse themselves in nature while enjoying diverse recreational activities, including;
Mountain Biking – Ride through Tigoni’s rolling hills, tea fields, and forest trails. Choose a leisurely path or challenge yourself on technical tracks while enjoying crisp highland air.
Bird Watching – Guided tours allow visitors to witness the extraordinary biodiversity restored by Brackenhurst’s conservation efforts, with over 180 bird species now recorded.
Team Building – Enjoy expansive lawns, forested areas, and a ropes course. Brackenhurst is ideal for innovative team-building activities. Also, professional instructors are available for tailored challenges that foster trust and coordination.
Sports – Facilities include tennis and basketball courts, as well as a large upper field for football, cricket, and other outdoor games.
Forest Walks and Retreats – Trails weave through the indigenous forest, offering opportunities for reflection, relaxation, and reconnection with nature.
Dining at Mama Tree Café – The on-site café offers an eclectic menu with dishes like coconut fish, creative salads, and fresh juices. Guests enjoy meals on sunlit lawns surrounded by birdsong and children’s laughter.
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