Popular Zip Lining Sites in Kenya
Kenya is increasingly becoming a tourist hotspot with many adventurous activities, scenic landscapes, and rich, diverse cultural heritage worth exploring. There are plenty of fun-filled activities to do as a solo adventurer, in groups, or as a family. One such activity is Zip Lining. It is a pocket-friendly activity packed with fun and thrill.
What is Zip Lining
Zip Lining is an action-filled activity that involves riding on a steel cable from one point to another. Riders are typically on a protective seat or a belt strapped around the body. The Zip lines generally run in places of natural settings with spectacular scenery, such as across valleys, over canopies, over rivers, or pools of water. The starting point is usually higher than the endpoint.
The activity has gained traction and has become popular among adventure lovers in Kenya, with multiple Zip Lining points coming up in different parts of the country to give adventurers an exhilarating experience.
Engineers are designing more defying and unusual Zip lines to add to this thrilling activity. Some zip lines stretch over long distances, above roaring waterfalls and gorges. It is definitely an activity every adrenaline junkie should explore.
What Equipment is used in Zip Lining
The Zip Line Cable is a steel–grade wire rope that runs from the start point to the endpoint. Its length will determine how long you get to enjoy the ride. Before its installation, builders carefully select the start and end points as it will determine the riding speed and the views you get to enjoy. The start point is usually higher on a fairly steep slope, so riders are propelled by gravity.
The Zip Line Platform – This is where riders get to start and end the zip line ride. It can be a natural or an artificial platform.
The Zip Line trolley (Zip liner) is the rider’s vehicle down the zip line. It is assembled with a pulley and runs down the Zip-line cable.
Pulley – Wheel and axle attached to the cable and the Zip line trolley. The rider hangs underneath the handgrip. It moves freely and allows movement along the zip-line cable.
The Zip Line brake – Zip lines have two kinds of brakes. The main one is a passive brake generated by friction between the pulley and the zip line that gradually slows the rider’s speed as they reach the zip line’s end. There is also an emergency brake that can be applied by the rider in case the one wants to come to a stop.
Seat and Chest Harness – The harness consists of straps and carabiners clipped to the cable to support the body, enhancing stability and ensuring your safety as you enjoy the zip line experience.
Helmet – Helps protect your head from obstacles such as branches and aerial objects such as birds.
Gloves – Helps protect your hands as you hold onto the handgrip. It also protects riders’ hands from injury during braking.
You do not need to purchase any items for Zip-lining. Most Zip lining points in Kenya have all the safety equipment for the riders. You only need to arm yourself with the desire to experience Zip lining.
Some tips before Zip Lining
- Dress comfortably
- Carefully listen to safety tips and zip-lining instructions as advised by the instructor.
- Avoid carrying items during the zip lining as they may fall, get damaged, or cause injury. You can use a mountable camera to capture the experience as you enjoy the ride.
- To best enjoy the experience, jump when there is good weather. Foggy days affect the overall experience.
Zip Lining Sites in Kenya
Where Can I Enjoy Zip Lining in Kenya?
There are plenty of zip-lining sites spread out all over Kenya. Here are some of the top-rated zip-lining sites in Kenya. (In no particular order)
The Kereita Forest – Located in Kimende, approximately 60km from Nairobi City, The Forest Adventure Centre boasts the longest zip line in Kenya. The site has 2.2km of cable, with six lines cutting through the forest.
For an adrenaline-packed ride across the canopies of the Kereita forest, riders can enjoy the longest line, 425m, end to end. The shortest zip is 325m. The location also has a wide range of other fun activities, such as archery, foot golf, Paintballs, Nature walks, and Mountain biking.
Rapids Camp Sagana – This fun spot is located along the Nairobi – Nyeri highway, 100 kilometers North of Nairobi. Its 250m zip line raised at 110m is one of a kind. Adventurers get to view the massive torrential Tana River and have the most thrilling, memorable experience. The Sagana fun spot is also home to activities such as canoeing, bungee jumping, kayaking, and water rafting.
Machakos Zip Line – The spot is located in Machakos town within the recreational Machakos People’s Park. Riders can enjoy the 200m and 300m zip lines while enjoying the park’s views. Visitors also get to enjoy biking, picnics, photography, and horse and camel riding.
Kompass At Ngong Hills – A perfect place to enjoy zip lining and unwind. Kompass is located on the Ngong Hills, giving adventurers views of the Rift Valley, Ngong Hills, Nairobi National Park, Mount Susta, and the skylines of Nairobi City. Visitors also get to enjoy archery, hiking, camping, picnics, cycling, and horseback riding.
The Dam Redhill Zip Line – This is located in Limuru, less than an hour’s drive from Nairobi, and easily accessible by public and private transport means. The resort is serene, overlooking the lush green Limuru Tea Plantations. The resort boasts beautiful gardens and a dam, perfect for Zip lining experience. Other fun activities include camping, boat riding and fishing, biking and running, jet skiing, horse riding, bouncing castles, and fun at a floating restaurant.
Lobaran Zip-line – Located at Kindarich Dam Road in Kabarnet town, this fun spot offers a serene adventurous experience with memorable experiences. The zip is across an artificial reservoir dam called Kerr Dam.
Paradise Lost Gardens – Located 15km from City Centre in Kiambu town, this chill spot is characterized by magnificent views of lush gardens popular for wedding venues and a floating deck. Some fun activities that can be enjoyed include Zip lining, nature trails, bird watching, boat riding and fishing, and horse and camel riding.
Whether a pro or a newbie, zip lining can offer that adrenaline rush and a thrilling adventure experience you’ll live to remember.
