From Tea Fields to Waterfalls: A Quest of Flavor, Adventure, and Impact in Kenya
Our journey to the Purple Tea Farm at Gatura Greens was more than just a day trip—it was an immersive experience that connected us to the vibrant spirit of rural Kenya. As the first organized tour by Quest Africa, we knew it would be special, but nothing could have prepared us for the beauty, the learning, and the profound impact that awaited us.
Setting off from Nairobi in the early morning, excitement and curiosity filled the air as we began our scenic drive through the lush, rolling hills of Murang’a County. The picturesque countryside felt like a living painting, with vast fields and patches of forest dotting the landscape. After about 1.5 hours, we arrived at Gatura Greens, a place that felt like something out of a dream. The crisp, highland air greeted us, carrying the scent of freshly brewed Kenyan purple tea—a rare and prized variety unique to this region.
Our gracious hosts welcomed us with warm smiles and homemade scones, setting the tone for the day. Over cups of steaming purple tea, we learned about its incredible health benefits—rich in antioxidants and handpicked from Kenya’s premier purple tea farm. This tea, rare in both flavor and health properties, is one of the reasons why Gatura Greens has earned its place on the map of eco-tourism in Kenya.
But this experience went far beyond sipping tea. Under the expert guidance of our host, we rolled up our sleeves and got involved in the tea-making process. We wandered through the vibrant fields, plucking tea leaves ourselves—each one carefully selected to ensure the highest quality. From there, we were shown how the leaves are roasted and rolled, eventually crafting our own blend to take home. The satisfaction of being part of the process made every sip of tea that much more meaningful, knowing that we had contributed to its creation from farm to cup.
And then, of course, there was the health factor. Purple tea, known for its antioxidant properties, is a natural superfood. We left the farm not only with our hand-picked tea but also with a newfound appreciation for the benefits of this unique beverage—a gift from Kenya’s rich soil.
After our tea adventure, we continued the day’s journey with a scenic trek through a bamboo forest that led us to a hidden waterfall. The rustling of leaves and the soft calls of birds created a peaceful soundtrack as we made our way along the trail. When we finally reached the waterfall, it felt as though we had stumbled upon a secret oasis. Some of us couldn’t resist a refreshing dip in the cool waters, while others simply soaked in the serenity of the scene. Standing there, surrounded by Kenya’s untouched beauty, we were reminded of the simple yet profound power of nature.
While the tea fields and waterfalls were breathtaking, it was our visit to Kagarii Primary School that truly left a lasting impact. Nestled on a small half-acre plot near the Ngere Tea Factory, this school was founded by local parents in 1998 and now serves 303 students. Most of the children come from families of small-scale tea farmers, and despite limited resources, their enthusiasm for learning was contagious.
We were honored to donate 200 storybooks to the school’s library—a small but meaningful contribution to their education. As we handed out the books, the joy on the children’s faces was enough to warm anyone’s heart. The headteacher, John Mwaura Njoroge, shared the school’s challenges, from a lack of infrastructure to the need for additional basic resources like toilets, office chairs, projectors, desktop computers, and a modern kitchen. Heather, one of our fellow travelers from Canada, was visibly moved. As we spoke with the children, she whispered, “This is why we’re here. It’s not just about the sights, it’s about making a real difference.”
Her words echoed what all of us were feeling. Quest Africa’s mission is not only to showcase Kenya’s beauty but also to create meaningful, lasting connections between travelers and the communities they visit. The school’s needs are great, and the opportunity to support them—whether through donations of resources or continued visits—reminded us that even small contributions can make a significant difference in these children’s lives.
As the day came to a close and we began our journey back to Nairobi, we carried with us not just memories of breathtaking landscapes and the delicious tea we had crafted, but also the knowledge that we had left a positive footprint in a community that welcomed us with open arms. Quest Africa had done more than organize a tour—it had facilitated a day of learning, connection, and impact that would stay with us long after we returned home.
And now, it’s your turn.
Ready to experience Kenya’s magic and leave your own lasting mark? Whether you’re drawn by the allure of Kenya’s purple tea, the thrill of discovering hidden waterfalls, or the chance to give back to communities like Kagarii Primary School, Quest Africa is here to guide you on an adventure like no other. Book your Quest today and join us on a journey that promises both personal growth and meaningful impact.
