Mlango Pool Hike

Mlango pool is a door-like waterfall formation nestled in Kathandeni forest at the foothills of Mt. Kenya. It’s source is River Nyaminde which also has a 3 tier short cascading waterfall called Ghutuku that is beautiful to behold.

Ghutuku falls being the farthest, 10km from Kathandeni gate is ideal for advanced hikers while Mlango pool which has a shorter route of 6km from the gate is best for intermediate hikers who want to enjoy the scenic nature, relax, and swim by the falls. The hike is rated moderate to difficult due to the long trek and the steep descent towards both falls. In addition, Ghutuku falls has a small space for accommodating people and if not careful one can fall off the stones because of the slipperiness.

The hike can be offered in full for the 20km range or it can be done up to Mlango pool only which would result in 12km round trip

The trail starts off on a clear grass path then forks out into the forest which is full of closely knit vegetation that brushes off one’s skin like face or hands and several fallen logs that one has to jump over. There’s also a section of the river where one has to cross over a big fallen tree trunk. The average altitude of 2113m doesn’t give one a hard time while climbing if they have hiked several times

Hike researched and photographed by Abby Koyier in August 2024

Based on the distance and road condition, we expect to take about 3 to 3.5 hours to get there by bus

Our route would take us via Thika Highway, up to Makutano where we branch on to the Embu Nairobi highway.

1. Hiking level – Moderate – Difficult. Total hiking distance is around 12 km for Mlango pool and 20km for Ghutuku Falls. Factors contributing to difficult hiking experience include the long distance, uphill terrain and steep descent towards both falls.

2. Main attractions – Diverse vegetation, insects, flora, birds, wildlife, and stunning views of River Nyaminde, tree trunks, waterfalls and swimming

3. Type of hike – Mountain forest hike.

4. Atmospheric conditions – Tends to be cold, foggy, wet, cloudy.

5. Slipping hazard – Average as there are some sections with steep inclines both up and downhill as well as slippery ground and rock surface.

6. Steepness – Total elevation gain is 545m over 20km distance and there are several steep sections towards the descent to both waterfalls

7. Hiking path condition – Short road stretch and a lot of narrow single file trails in most sections and walking in the forest with no clear paths having wet ground because of the thick mist during cold seasons

8. Water usage – Medium to high. Recommend a minimum of 2 litres depending on weather.

9. Route visibility – The trail starts out with a visible road path then forks out to several paths in different intersections.
10. Biodiversity – Numerous species of insects, flora, birds, wild animals and diverse Vegetation

Diversity of the vegetation inside the forest

• Good hiking boots, walking stick 

• Sun hat – to protect against the sun/rain gear to protect against rain and gloves for warmth against fog. 

• Water – at least 2 litres
  
• Insect repellant, rubber shoes

• Snacks and lunch – since we expect to start at 9am and finish latest by 6pm, we recommend you bring snacks and lunch to eat while relaxing at scenic locations along the route