Tea Farms In Tigoni: An Age-Old History Of Kenyan Culture and Taste

For centuries, tea has graced the tables of humanity: fuelling wars but also bonding societies in a quest for the crop that is packed with caffeine, theobromine, theophylline and l-theanine. However, before it became the popular beverage we know it to be today, and before Kenyan tea from lush farms became the desired treat it is, research shows that tea was not always consumed as such. It was utilised in burial rituals among Chinese royalty and then adopted other uses, like dowry payment for aristocrats around 640 A.D. 

A thousand years later, in the 1600s, the buds would land on the British Isles, finding their way into daily culinary preferences as it provided relief for workers contending with the struggles of manual labour. Soon after, sugar was paired with the drink and with this marriage, modern tea culture was born. Tea is universal but unique to each culture as you move across the globe, and that is what’s so fascinating about these aromatic leaves.

In Kenya, tea – or chai as it is known in Swahili – is more than just a source of nutrition. It was introduced during the colonial period in what is now present-day Limuru (specifically Tigoni) because of the region’s geographical importance and has grown in into a large industry. Here, tea grows at a high altitude and in a tropical climate, with red clay volcanic soil and humidity, which are the perfect conditions for year-round cultivation. The natural conditions also make pests nearly non-existent; thus, pesticides are generally not used, and that is why Kenyan tea is often labelled as “environmentally friendly” and “organic”.

These acres of Kenyan tea farms play a vital role in the nation’s culture as tea breaks are one of best ways for people to bond. Drinking chai in Kenya is a simple yet grand affair borrowed from historic British and Asian connections. Made with milk and lots of sugar, it’s served through out the day with mandazi or is sometimes spiced up to reflect the Indian influence in this region. Economically, the country is second only to China when it comes to production and remains the largest global tea exporter, accounting for 25% of all tea exports worldwide. 

Hence, visiting a Kenyan tea farm is a unique experience to add to your East African bucket list!

Where Are The Tigoni Tea Farms Located?

The Tigoni tea farms can be found in and around the town of Limuru, about 45 minutes northwest of Nairobi. As you drive on the long winding roads, you are met with a beautiful sight of sprawling lush, green plantations.

The Best Tea Farms In Tigoni

Kiambethu Tea Farm

The main and most popular estate in Limuru is the Kiambethu Tea Farm. Here, visitors are not only blessed with tranquil terrain, delicious drinks, and tea picking adventures, but you can also explore the factories and learn about the tea processing and production that’s been taking place for nearly a century. 

Beyond the tea itself, a tour of the farm also includes a guided walk to a nearby indigenous forest where you will discover indigenous plants and uncover how they have been used traditionally over many decades, and cycling and horse riding opportunities.

If that’s still not enough, wine and cheese tasting can enjoyed at the Brown’s Cheese Factory, so you can make a the perfect day trip of it!

Tours take place from Thursday to Sunday each week, starting at 11 am.

Gathoni Sensory Garden & Tea Farm

Gathoni Tea Farm is a world of tranquility, aroma and flavour, and as one of Kenya’s oldest tea farms, is a true testament to a thriving industry that has become culturally significant. Wander a picturesque landscape featuring great history, luxurious tea tasting and of course, acres of deep green rows where guests are taught how to pick, roll and roast the leaves.

Adding to this peaceful experience, is the famously known Naishola and Naiposha Gardens, where visitors can take a soothing, sensory stroll and appreciate enchanting views of Lake Tigoni.

Tours take place from everyday, starting at 10 am.

What If The Tigoni Tea Farms Are Closed?

If you find yourself visiting Nairobi and the tea farms happen to be closed, don’t let that deter you from exploring Limuru. You can still drive along the plantations and stop on the side of the road to take a picture or two, and then continue your way to Limuru Waterfall for a picnic.

As you drive through the gate to the picnic site where the waterfall is located, the high altitude offers stunning, panoramic views of the plantations before you take the steep but short walk down to the waterfall and enjoy the serenity of your surroundings. I recommend visiting the waterfalls as early in the morning as possible, so you have it all to yourself. 

Other Wonderful Tea Farms In Kenya

While Limuru is the most popular place to take a tour of a Kenyan tea farm, there are various others spread across the country – many of which are still in driving distance of Nairobi.

Gatura Greens Tea Farm

The Gatura Greens Tea Farm in Muranga County is home to the first purple tea plantations in the country and offers one the best tours I’ve ever taken. Fall in love with gorgeous scenery and you try picking your own leaves, indulge a tea tasting session and get your steps in as you hike down to a waterfall – all before enjoying a gourmet lunch!

ours take place from everyday, starting at 9:30 am.

Are you ready to join Kenya’s love affair with tea?

Practical Information About Tigoni

Location: Kenya, East Africa

National Languages: Swahili and English 

Currency: Kenyan shilling

Neighbouring Countries: Uganda, Tanzania and Ethiopia