Tea in Kenya: The fascinating tea cultivation

Tea cultivation plays an important role in the economy Kenya's plays an important role. It provides jobs for many Kenyans and is known worldwide for its variety and quality. Kenya has now established itself as one of the world's leading tea producers and exporters. Find out more about Kenyan tea and its history here.

The history of Kenyan tea

The history of tea cultivation in Kenya begins with the colonial era in the 19th century. British colonial rulers tried their hand at growing tea bushes from India in Kenya. The first tea plantations began in the highland regions. The first tea plantation was founded by the British Arnold Butler in Limuru in 1903.

Over time, more and more plantations were established. As a result, tea production became increasingly important for Kenya's economy. During the 1950s, the country became a major exporter and the tea industry contributed significantly to the country's economic development. After Kenya gained its independence from Great Britain in 1963, the plantations were partially nationalized, which gave the local population more influence over tea production. Kenya now exports not only tea leaves, but also processed products such as flavored tea.

The most popular teas

One of the most popular Kenyan teas is the black tea produced there. CTC black tea is particularly popular. The processing methods for this special type of tea are particularly popular in Kenya. With the special methods, it is possible to produce particularly strong and powerful black teas.

Other types of tea produced there include green tea, white tea and the rare oolong tea. There are also other typical Kenyan teas. One of these, for example, is Kenya Lelsa Tea, which is produced near Kericho. It is known for its malty and strong taste and is particularly suitable for strong breakfast tea. Kenya Tinderet Tea from the Tinderet region, on the other hand, is better known for its refreshing and invigorating taste.

The tea plantations

Cultivation takes place both on commercial plantations and on smaller cooperatives. Local farmers work together on these. Tea cultivation in Kenya mainly takes place in the central and western regions. The best-known tea-growing regions are Kericho, Murang'a and Kiambu. Tea is mainly grown in these regions because the climatic conditions and altitudes there have proven to be particularly favorable for cultivation.

The growing areas are often at higher altitudes with a cooler climate, which slows down the growth rate of the tea plants. This allows the aromas and flavors in the tea to develop. The quality of the soil and the care taken in processing the tea leaves are also important factors. Some tea-growing areas are located on volcanic soils, which give the tea leaves a unique aroma thanks to their nutrients and minerals.

Tourism on the plantations

Most of the tea plantations are also open to tourists. Among other things, guided tours and visits are offered. This gives tourists the opportunity to observe the entire tea production process. If you are there, you should definitely take the opportunity to experience the production of Kenyan tea on site. Surrounded by beautiful landscapes, you can also taste the tea there.

Tea in Kenya

Tea cultivation is a very important economic sector in Kenya. Thanks to its cultivation, the country has become one of the leading global tea producers. Both the quality and the taste of the tea are highly valued around the world. If you visit one of the plantations, you can also learn more about the history of tea cultivation there and the cultural significance of tea as well as the impact of the industry on the Kenyan population. Our Kenya round trip is perfect for this. In addition to the unique teas, enjoy beautiful sunsets. With our Tips you can prepare perfectly for your trip to Kenya.

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