- Destination type: Hikes
This is a beginner moderate hike that starts at the southern edge of Gatamaiyu Forest reserve and finishes at the same place. Along the way we will see 4 waterfalls and get the chance to swim too
The trail starts at Gatamaiyu forest office and quickly descends to the first waterfall. Thereafter follows a slow climb for a few km before we see the 2nd small waterfall and then a steeper climb to the highest point of the trail ay 2350m.
The second half of the trail goes on a downward trajectory and reaches a large pool where we can swim and relax
Final stretch takes us to the last and best waterfall before we quickly get back to the KFS office
The route through the forest is not always fixed and this results in a total hiking distance of 10-11km
It takes about 2 hours to get to the starting point and the roads are mostly smooth except at the end where construction is happening. The distance to the starting point is about 62km. We’ll depart the city at 7am
We’ll use Waiyaki Way – Nakuru highway up to Kimende where we will then turn towards Gatamaiyu forest
- Hiking level – beginner to moderate – needs prior forest hiking experience. Total hiking distance is 10-11 km. Factors contributing to moderate hiking experience include slippery wet slopes, medium distance, thorny trees, humid environment, rough terrain and long stretches of gentle climbing
- Main attractions – rainforest type vegetation, 4 waterfalls, river, birds, butterflies, woodland forest
- Type of hike – forest type of hike through wet rainforest, woodland forest and open spaces
- Atmospheric conditions – humid air in the rainforest, possible chances of rain depending on season
- Slipping hazard – high during the trek to the waterfall due to the mud, wet slopes, wet forest sections. This is a hike you will definitely get dirty. We’ll also be crossing a river twice where the water is a foot or more deep.
- Steepness – most sections are gently sloping. Total elevation change is almost 250m with the highest altitude being 2350m in the middle and the lowest being 2215m at the beginning
- Hiking path condition – first section has a steep descent which can be slippery but it improves for most of the trail. Most paths are meant for singe file hiking
- Water usage – medium – recommend a minimum of 2 litres
- Route visibility – can be missing in places, especially in the rainforest – thus the need to keep together
- Biodiversity – numerous species of insects, birds, fungi, trees and some domestic animals
- Good hiking boots – these are really needed due to the slippery terrain
- Trousers and long sleeve shirts – due to the dense thickets and thorns, there are high possibilities of being scratched. Bring gloves if you can to make it easier on the hands
- Sun hat – to protect against the sun and overhead branches
- Water – at least 2 litres
- Lunch and snacks – the hike is long and we recommend you to carry some snacks and lunch. Snacks can include fruits, nuts and energy bars
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Elevation Profile
Trail Map
