Traffic, noise, deadlines: sometimes you just need to get out of Nairobi. Just about 3 hours north of the city, between the Aberdare Range and Mount Kenya, Sandai Farm offers exactly that. Fresh highland air, wide open space and five fully equipped self-catering cottages. No flight, no long safari planning. Pack the car on Friday and be on your veranda by the afternoon.
Why Sandai is the perfect weekend escape from Nairobi
- Close enough for a weekend: about 3 hours by road, near Mweiga in Nyeri County
- Self-catering, but never on your own: cook when you like, or enjoy the restaurant and café on the farm
- Plenty to do, or nothing at all: horseback riding, archery, yoga, foot reflexology massages, billiards and table football
- Kids and pets welcome: bring the whole family, including the dog
- Space: lots of it. Room to breathe, walk and slow down
Getting there from Nairobi
Sandai Farm lies near Mweiga, north of Nyeri, and the drive from Nairobi takes about 3 hours. Leave the city early on Friday afternoon to beat the traffic and arrive in daylight. Detailed directions to Sandai Farm are available on our main website. Travelling without a car? On request, we can arrange a pickup.
A weekend on Sandai: how it could look
Friday: arrive and switch off
Drive up from Nairobi, stop for groceries on the way and settle into your cottage. Light the fire, cook a simple dinner and enjoy the quiet of the highlands. No city lights, just stars.
Saturday: enjoy the farm
Start the day with yoga, then head out on horseback through the open countryside. After lunch, try your hand at archery, book a foot reflexology massage or simply read on the veranda. In the evening, treat yourself to dinner at the restaurant. No cooking, no dishes.
Sunday: a morning with rhinos
Before heading home, visit the Solio Rhino Sanctuary, less than an hour from the farm and one of Africa’s oldest rhino sanctuaries. Alternatively, explore the forests and waterfalls of Aberdare National Park. Then drive back to Nairobi, relaxed and recharged.
Make it a long weekend
With an extra day, there is time for more. Combine your stay with a visit to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, home to the last northern white rhinos, or simply enjoy another lazy day on the farm with views of Mount Kenya on clear mornings. All safaris and day trips can be arranged directly from Sandai.
Kenyan public holidays are the perfect opportunity for a long weekend in the highlands, for example over Easter, around Labour Day, Madaraka Day, Mashujaa Day or Jamhuri Day, or between Christmas and New Year. These dates tend to book up early, so enquire in good time.
Which cottage suits your weekend?
For couples: the roundhouses Azizi & Zawadi are cosy Kenyan-style cottages and the perfect weekend getaway for two.
For families: the medium-sized cottages Makena & Chui sleep 4+2 each. Located side by side, they can be booked together for two families or friends travelling together.
For groups: our large cottage Punda Milia sleeps up to 8 and is ideal for a weekend with friends or the extended family.
Tips for your self-catering weekend
- Stock up on the way: Nyeri is a good place to buy groceries before you reach the farm.
- Pack warm clothes: evenings in the highlands can be cool, which makes the fireplace all the more inviting.
- Book activities ahead: let us know in advance if you would like to go horse riding or book a massage.
- Bring the dog: pets are welcome in our cottages.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Sandai Farm from Nairobi?
The drive takes about 3 hours. Sandai lies near Mweiga, north of Nyeri, between the Aberdares and Mount Kenya.
Can we eat at the farm instead of cooking?
Yes, the restaurant and café on Sandai Farm are open to self-catering guests too.
Are there special rates for Kenyan residents?
Yes, we offer resident rates for our cottages.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, pets are welcome in our self-catering cottages.
Plan your weekend getaway
Ready to swap the city for the highlands? Check availability for your preferred dates. We look forward to welcoming you to Sandai. Karibu!
