Njanjara Falls

The hike is a 5-hour beginner-moderate level hike covering approximately 7 km in Mukurwe -Ini, Nyeri County. The hiking route is within a partially forested area that leads to a coffee collection point, the first waterfall Kerurumo which is inaccessible and the main waterfall, Njanjara. There is the optional nature walk within Wajee Nature park, which serves as the starting point of this hike.

Full day trip
Beginner-moderate
  1. Hiking level – beginner to moderate, stretching is encouraged for the steep parts of the hike.

 

  1. Main attractions – two falls, Kerurumo & Njanjara, birdlife and some wildlife within Wajee nature park such as squirrels.

 

  1. Type of hike – forest hike through wide roads.

 

  1. Atmospheric Conditions- present cloud cover, with a cool breeze. Expect sun for most of the hike.

 

  1. Slipping hazard – Along the hiking path low level during the dry season, during the rainy season the mud present increases the chances of slipping & falling. At the waterfall, slipping hazard is high, as the bed is made of rock.

 

  1. Steepness – there is a 365m elevation gain, with only 2 major noted ascents, the rest of the hike is generally flat or descending.

 

  1. Hiking path condition – mostly wide paths which allow for vehicles to pass, paths heading directly to the falls are narrow. At points, we may pass through farmland if it is unavoidable, take care to avoid damaging crops.

 

  1. Water usage – 1.5 to 2 litres of water, may be suitable for the entire hike.

 

  1. Route visibility – mostly visible but there is need to keep together to avoid misdirection.

 

  1. Biodiversity – numerous species of flowering plants, insects, birds and possibly small wildlife such as squirrels
Starting is Wajee Nature park, after brief stretches and a safety talk the hike can commence at the tarmac road
We branch of the main road to a steep descent that grants access to the forested area.
After 2.6 km or so, we arrive at coffee collection point, where we get a brief tour of the plant and the process of collection from farmers together with the various types of coffee berries
The plant has channels to sort the coffee berries, and the resulting beans being laid out to dry on beds pictured above.
The second leg beyond a steep ascent leads to the falls , after a river crossing and passing through narrow paths in farmland, we arrive at Kerurumo which can only be viewed at a distance
Narrow paths through the forest and farms head to the next waterfall
Njanjara falls, a wide but short waterfall whose bed is made of rock is perfect for swimming. The river itself is extensive and can house multiple people for a refreshing dip in the cool waters
After a swimming session, we can head back to the starting point at Wajee Nature park, for a brief walk and history of the establishment of the park itself.
  • Good hiking boots – these are really needed due to the small stones, slippery/muddy terrain.
  • Swimming gear – for those who intend to swim.
  • Sun hat – to protect against the sun and overhead branches
  • Water – at least 2 litres
  • Lunch – being a day hike, we recommend you carry lunch – this can be had at the river
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Elevation Profile

Trail Map