The Green Heart of Kenya's Capital.

The Nairobi Arboretum is a popular city break, a destination particularly for Nairobi residents who want to spend a quiet moment away from the bustle of urban life. The spot just a short distance from the city centre is a collection of indigenous trees species and lush green grounds.

The area has this enchanting attraction that pulled the first visitor and is even felt today. From the early 1900s, a trickle, then a light rainfall, then a downpour of nature lovers, couples, families and workers began to fall upon the serene grounds of the Nairobi Arboretum. Some came for an hour, and stayed the whole afternoon. Some came to rest; to meditate; to court; or to put that awful something far behind.

They came to rest, celebrate or bond. In the tranquil atmosphere they lay or sat hearing peace, hearing for the first time to hear. And how to read, read the sky’s stories of the white bearded shepherds racing after their numerous flocks of white fluffy sheep across blue fields.

The Nairobi Arboretum is a 30 hectare wonderful green space that has been open to the public since 1907. It prides itself with having some of the oldest trees in the Nairobi ecosystem. Managed by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and assisted by Friends of Nairobi Arboretum (FONA) since 1993, this team takes care of these restful surroundings that are open to the general public for free from 8.00 AM to 5:00 PM everyday.

Access to the arboretum is easy through two gates located on the upper side from State House Road and the lower end on Arboretum Drive where a path winds about among the trees to join the two gates. Lone benches have been thoughtfully installed to allow walkers to savour the silence, watch the birds and monkeys swing from green canopies above or just breath in the fresh air seasonally spiced with heavenly scents from the trees and flowers.

This sanctuary ideal for walkers, families or groups, bird watchers and nature lovers is home to a wide range of butterflies, birds and trees. While there take time to explore the foot paths and have a walk to the banks of Kirichwa Kubwa an offshoot of the Nairobi river located in the lower part of the arboretum. I must confess, its waters are quiet a contrast to the mother-river.

Any kind of commotion is discouraged in the serene atmosphere and biking on the foot paths is prohibited. As an effort to maintaining cleanliness on the grounds, visitors are advised not to litter but drop their waste in the designated bins.

Take that deserved break from the workplace over lunch or have a slow down day at the arboretum alone, with a loved one or friends over the weekend. Just be still and rest while at the Nairobi Arboretum. It is so beautiful; indulge in the greens and nature trails of this peaceful escape in the middle of a bustling city.