KEFRI Forest

A gentle introduction to forest hikes – this is what KEFRI hike is about. Located close to Nairobi is this region that has remnants of old forest mixed in with new forest and trees.

The hike starts from the KEFRI headquarters near Zambezi stage. We quickly dive into the forest trails after a short walk along the tarmacked road and soon we are lost in the sounds of the forest and the canopy moving overhead. Birds are rarely seen but heard in plenty

The trail takes us through bamboo sections and narrow winding trails before we spread on to the wide open trails through the planted sections

The final part is a short but steep climb back to the starting point which completes the hike at 12km or so. The trails might be different hence the variation in hike length

Full day trip

Since the starting point is close to Nairobi, we don’t expect to take longer than 1.5 hours to get there. Our departure time can be 7am

We will be using Waiyaki way and will then branch at Zambezi stage just after Sigona golf club

Beginner-moderate
  1. Hiking level – a beginner moderate level hike that will allow first time hikers to get into hiking with a bit of effort. The trail is 12-13 km long

 

  1. Main attractions – forest trails, canopy views, bamboo thickets, open rolling fields

 

  1. Type of hike – forest hike with some open trails

 

  1. Atmospheric conditions – due to mid high altitude, the area tends to be cool and cloudy

 

  1. Slipping hazard – very minimal for most of the trail since it’s fairly flat or gentle. However, near the end we will be climbing back up which can have a bit of loose soil

 

  1. Steepness – fairly gentle with total elevation change at less than 50m

 

  1. Hiking path condition – open dirt roads followed by gently sloping paths along the dam

 

  1. Water usage – low to medium – recommend 1.5 liters depending on the weather

 

  1. Route visibility – the trail is generally visible except in the forested areas

 

  1. Biodiversity – numerous species of insects, birds and trees
Starting point of the hike

Forest trails as we continue
Bamboo section
Planted forest trails
Canopy views
Open fields

  • Good hiking boots
  • Sun hat – to protect against the sun
  • Water – at least 1.5 litres
  • Snacks and lunch – since we expect to finish latest by 5pm, we recommend you bring snacks and lunch to eat while relaxing at scenic locations along the route
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Elevation Profile

Trail Map