Location & Getting There
Q: Where exactly is Idan Barn Suites & Café located?
A: We are located in Naromoru (also spelled Naro Moru), Nyeri County, Kenya, 1km off the main Nanyuki–Nyeri highway, in the area of Naromoru Gatuanyaga. We are approximately 19km from the Naromoru Gate of Mt Kenya National Park, and roughly 1 hour from the Sirimon Gate. The nearest major town is Nanyuki, about 21km away.
Q: How far is Idan Barn Suites from Nairobi?
A: Naromoru is approximately 175 – 190km from Nairobi, depending on your route. The drive typically takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours via the Thika Superhighway and Sagana. Public transport options include matatus or buses from Nairobi’s Mwiki or Pangani stages towards Nanyuki, with a drop-off at Naromoru town, we are a short boda-boda or taxi ride from there.
Q: How do I get from Nanyuki to Idan Barn Suites?
A: From Nanyuki town, we are approximately 21km south along the Nanyuki–Nyeri highway. You can take a matatu heading to Nyeri or Naromoru and alight just off the highway, where you will see our sign board, we are 1km off the main road. Alternatively, a taxi or Bolt/Uber from Nanyuki takes about 20–30 minutes. We can connect you with trusted local taxi drivers on request.
Q: Is there a signpost for Idan Barn Suites on the highway?
A: Google Maps navigates directly to the property. However, we recommend ensuring to take the turn where you see our sign board along the Nanyuki highway. If you have any trouble locating us, call or WhatsApp us on +254 762 004 417 and we will guide you in.
Q: Is there parking at Idan Barn Suites?
A: Yes, free private parking is available on the premises for all guests.
Rooms & Accommodation
Q: What types of rooms are available at Idan Barn Suites?
A: We offer five room types: the Twin Garden Room (en-suite, garden views), the Deluxe Room with Balcony (private balcony, Mt Kenya views), the Penthouse Loft (self-catering, fireplace, up to 3 adults), the Coral Room, the Jade Room, and the Cottage (3 bedrooms, sleeps up to 6). All rooms are solar-powered with Starlink WiFi.
Q: What are the check-in and check-out times?
A: Standard check-in is from 2:00 PM and check-out is 11:00 AM. Early check-in and late check-out may be arranged subject to availability, please WhatsApp or call us in advance if you need flexibility. We do ask that guests arriving in the evening hours, to inform us if possible of their expected arrival time ahead of their stay.
Q: Is there a self-catering option?
A: Yes. The Penthouse Loft and the 3-Bedroom Cottage are both self-contained self-catering units, each with a fully equipped kitchen. Guests in these units can also order à la carte from our on-site café. A full breakfast is also available for self-catering guests at KSh 1,200 per adult.
Q: Do the rooms have good Wi-Fi?
A: Yes. All rooms and common areas are served by Starlink satellite internet, providing fast and reliable connectivity throughout the property. There are no load-shedding interruptions either, the entire property runs on solar power.
Q: Do you have rooms suitable for a Mt Kenya climb?
A: Absolutely! We are a popular pre- and post-climb base. The Twin Garden Room is particularly popular with hikers for its value and practicality. We can arrange early breakfasts before your climb and a warm meal waiting for you on your return. We can also connect you with registered guides and trusted local taxi drivers for gate transfers.
Q: Are children welcome? Is it family friendly?
A: Yes, children of all ages are welcome. Children under 6 stay free. Children aged 6–12 are charged at 50% of the adult rate. We have a playground on the property and a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere. The 3-bedroom cottage is ideal for families.
Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Unfortunately, pets are not permitted inside the rooms, but are welcome on the compound on a leash. The cottage that has a verandah is secure and pleasant for pets.
The Barn Café & Dining
Q: Does Idan Barn Suites have an on-site restaurant or café?
A: Yes, the Barn Café is open on-site for both resident guests and walk-in visitors. We serve breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee, and a range of beverages. The café has an indoor and outdoor seating area and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Q: What are the meal board options?
A: Rooms are priced on a Bed & Breakfast (B&B) basis. Half Board (B&B plus one main meal) is available. Beverages are extra on all packages.
Q: What kind of food does the Barn Café serve?
A: Our menu covers a wide range: classic English breakfast, omelettes, French toast, pancakes, soups, club sandwiches, burgers, grilled meats (lamb chops, T-bone, chicken breast), pastas, stir-fries, fish, a kids corner, and desserts including the famous cake of the day. We also serve freshly brewed coffee, teas, smoothies, and fresh juices and mocktails and cocktails.
Q: Is the Barn Café open to non-guests / walk-ins?
A: Yes. The Barn Café is open to walk-in visitors as well as resident guests. You do not need to be staying at the property to dine with us.
Q: Can you cater to special dietary requirements?
A: Yes. Our menu includes vegetarian options, and the chef can accommodate special dietary needs. Please inform us of any food allergies before ordering so our chef can prepare accordingly.
Rates, Booking & Policies
Q: How do I book a room at Idan Barn Suites?
A: You can book directly on our website at idanbarnsuites.com, or via WhatsApp/phone at +254 762 004 417, or by emailing [email protected]. You can also book through Booking.com or TripAdvisor. Booking direct gives you the best rate.
Q: What is the deposit and cancellation policy?
A: A 50% deposit is required to confirm a reservation, with the balance due on arrival. Cancellations made 72 hours or more before arrival qualify for a full refund. Cancellations within 48 hours of arrival are non-refundable. A minimum of 2 nights applies on peak and long weekends; 3 nights for the festive buyout package.
Q: What payment methods do you accept?
A: We accept M-Pesa, Airtel Money, Visa, and Mastercard. Full details are available on our website.
Q: Do you offer discounts for longer stays?
A: Yes. We offer discounted rates for stays of 7 nights and above. For monthly stays, please contact us directly for a custom quote. This is especially popular with remote workers and researchers using us as a quiet base.
Q: Can I book the entire property exclusively?
A: Yes. Our Barn House Buyout package allows groups to book the entire property exclusively for up to 8 guests. Off-peak weekday B&B rates start from KSh 45,500. Minimum 3 nights during the festive period (December 19 – January 3).
Things To Do & Mt Kenya
Q: What is there to do near Naromoru / Naro Moru?
A: The area offers a wide range of activities: climbing or day-hiking Mt Kenya (via Naromoru or Sirimon Gate), visiting Ol Pejeta Conservancy for game drives and the chimpanzee sanctuary, e-bike rides through the Naromoru landscape (in partnership with Paiskeli), horse riding at nearby ranches, Mau Mau Caves hike (8–13km through forest and history), and nature walks on quiet country roads with fresh mountain air.
Q: How far is Idan Barn Suites from Mt Kenya National Park gates?
A: We are 19km from the Naromoru Gate and approximately 1 hour from the Sirimon Gate, giving you flexibility on your chosen climbing route. We can assist with guide coordination and gate transfers.
Q: Can you help arrange Mt Kenya guides and transfers?
A: Yes. We can help connect you with registered Mt Kenya guides and trusted local cab drivers for gate transfers. We offer a dedicated Mt Kenya Climb Package that includes accommodation before and after your climb, a hearty dinner, early breakfast, and packed meals on request.
Q: How far is Idan Barn Suites from Ol Pejeta Conservancy?
A: Ol Pejeta Conservancy is approximately 25–30km from the property, around a 30–40 minute drive. We can help organise a day trip including transport and guide if needed.
Q: Is Idan Barn Suites suitable for a workation or remote work stay?
A: Yes , it is one of our most popular stay types. The property has fast Starlink WiFi, solar power (no outages), quiet rooms, and full café service to keep you fed and caffeinated and work from. Discounted weekly and monthly rates are available. One complimentary coffee per day is included in our Workation Package.