There are many tourist attractions in Thika Kenya. Primarily known as a market haven, the town actually has other many other interesting sites.
Location
The town is in the country’s central province. It is situated at the A2 road forty kilometers east of Nairobi. It has an elevation of 1531 meters (5026 feet).
What to See
The coffee plantations are among the must-see sites here. Of its many nature spots, two worthy of a visit are Chania and Thika Falls. Not too far off is the Fourteen Falls, a well known picnic area.
On the southeast end is the Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park. This is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Thika. From the park, Mt. Kilimanjaro can be seen.
There are plenty of game in the site including duiker, impala and bushbuck. There are also several hiking trails. There are also hundreds of buffalos along the slopes. There are plenty of bird species around. Baboons and monkeys proliferate. The name Ol Donyo Sabuk stands for “big mountain” in Massai.
History
The Akamba tribe was among the earliest inhabitants of the area. By the 19th century, foreigners started coming into the area. It would become a convenient resting place for the British. As time passed by, Asians and Europeans began to settle in the area.
The Europeans would go on to establish farms. The Asians on the other hand, built shops. The town attained its status in 1924. When Kenya gained independence in 1963, the town was promoted to a 2nd class municipality.
Cost
Flights to the country will probably cost at least $100. Bus rides are cheap and cost about US$0.66 more or less. The price for a visa is US$100 for multiple entry and US$50 for single entry.
Other Info
This market town is well known for its recreational facilities, many of which are modern. It also has a very lively nightlife. The Mugumo Gardens is the place where an old fig tree used to stand. It was there its famed seer “Mugo wa Kibiro” made his predictions.
He said when the tree fell, Britain’s rule in Kenya would end. The UK made efforts to strengthen the tree. But it fell apart in 1963, the year Kenya gained independence.
The many tourist attractions in Thika show that there is more to this town than meets the eye. Whether you’re a nature lover or just want to have a good time, the place will not disappoint.
