Kathandeni Forest Bathing & Waterfall Chase
Kathandeni Forest Bathing & Waterfall Chase
A hidden gem in Kirinyaga County
Nestled in the southern end of the Mount Kenya forest in Kirinyaga County, the Kathandeni Forest Bathing and Waterfall Chase is a rewarding forest hike for anyone looking for a day to escape the hustle and bustle of the city! The hike through the pristine Kathandeni forest, starts at the Mount Kenya Kathandeni Forest Gate, following an initial well paved forest road before taking a detour into small footpaths in the woods. Next, the trail leads us to the gently flowing Nyamindi River, where we perform the delicate balancing act crossing the river over a huge log. No kidding, this river crossing will have you shaking for a brief moment!
Next, the trail takes you on a riverine trek leading you to a stunning three-tier waterfall--the ultimate reward for the day. After enjoying some quiet time snacking on the river bank near the waterfall, we take the same path back, over the log, through the woods, back onto the forest road and out through the same entry point.
Kathandeni Forest Hike Distance And Stats
Distance: 17km
Maximum Elevation: 2,100m
Maximum Elevation Gain: 479m
Duration: 6-8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
Beginner-friendly: Yes
Child-friendly: Yes, 10Â years and above
Kathandeni Forest Hike Itinerary
4:45 a.m Meet up at International House Parking, City Hall Way. Boarding opens.
5:00 a.m Departure for Kathandeni Forest, Kiamutugu
08:30 Arrival at Kathandeni Forest Gate.
09:00 a.m Hike Starts
01:30 p.m Mandatory turn-back
5:30 p.m Departure for Nairobi
Charges
Ticket | By Bus | Self-Drive |
Kenyan Citizens | KES 3,900 | KES 2,000 |
Foreign Kenyan Residents | KES 4,100 | KES 2,200 |
Non-Resident Foreigners | US$ 38.00 | NA |
Mpesa Till 989985
What to Wear
- Quick-drying tshirt
- Quick-drying pants
- Fleece jacket
- Sun hat or cap
- Well-treaded hiking shoes
What to Carry
- 3L water and suitable snacks
- Rain jacket
- Rain pants
- Trekking pole
- Identification documents
How to Prepare for the Hike
- Engage in active cardio exercises such as aerobics, walking, running, cycling, and swimming among others the week prior to the event.
- Set aside the day before the hike for resting--take a break from exercises.
- Increase your hydration at least two days to the hike.
- Purpose to get enough rest the night before the hike.Â
- If on intermittent fasting or on a diet, take a break in the period one day before and after the hike. This way, you will build up your energy reserves for the arduous task ahead.
- Cut your toe nails!
- Have a generous breakfast at least 3 hours before the start of the hike. This ensures that most of the food has been digested by the time you begin the hike, giving you the much-needed energy while ensuring your stomach is not too full for comfort.
- Use the bathroom before leaving the house to reduce the need for bathroom breaks on the commute.
- Set your mind up for conquering yourself. Hiking is more about your mindset than physical preparation. Once you win the battle in your mind, everything else contributes less than 10%. You can do it!