Mwea Tebere Irrigation Scheme Tour in Kirinyaga county Kenya

Discover the Mwea Tebere Irrigation Scheme on a guided tour. Meet local farmers, learn about rice farming, and capture stunning photos of the flooded paddies at sunrise and sunset.
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Mwea Tebere Irrigation Scheme, Kenya’s largest and most famous rice-growing region, located in the lush plains of Kirinyaga County about 100 kilometers northeast of Nairobi. Stretching across thousands of acres of vibrant green rice paddies, this iconic agricultural landscape offers international travelers a rare opportunity to experience authentic rural Kenya, rich cultural traditions, and one of East Africa’s most impressive irrigation systems.

Originally developed in the 1950s, the Mwea Tebere Irrigation Scheme has grown into the heart of Kenya’s rice production, supplying over 60% of the country’s locally produced rice. Fed by the waters of Rivers Thiba and Nyamindi, the endless rice fields create a stunning scenery that changes with the seasons — from mirror-like flooded paddies reflecting the sky to golden fields ready for harvest.

A visit to Mwea offers much more than sightseeing. Travelers can enjoy immersive cultural and farming experiences including:

Guided walks through the rice paddies

Learning traditional and modern rice farming techniques

Participating in rice planting or harvesting depending on the season

Meeting local farmers and hearing their inspiring stories

Sampling Kenya’s famous aromatic Pishori rice

Birdwatching around the irrigation canals and wetlands

Capturing spectacular sunrise and sunset photography over the fields

The landscape is especially magical during sunrise and sunset, when the golden light reflects across the flooded paddies, creating unforgettable panoramic views highly praised by local travelers and photographers.

Visitors can also explore nearby rural markets, enjoy authentic Kikuyu and Kenyan cuisine, and experience the warm hospitality of the local farming communities. The area provides a peaceful escape from busy city life and gives travelers a deeper understanding of Kenya’s agricultural heritage and food culture.

Per garantire la disponibilità, prenota il prima possibile. La prenotazione anticipata è consigliata soprattutto se stai pianificando il viaggio durante l'alta stagione come le festività pubbliche o i fine settimana.

Questa escursione può essere annullata senza costi fino a 24 ore prima dell'inizio del viaggio. Se la annulli dopo 24 ore o non ti presenti all'escursione, ti verrà comunque addebitato il prezzo intero dell'attività. Essere in ritardo al ritiro o alla partenza sarà considerato come non presentarsi.