Build Resilience at Gicheru mines
Have you done a lot of forest and waterfall hikes and are looking for something different? Something more challenging to build your resilience? You might want to try out the Gicheru trail.
The trail is near Kamangu area, its starts 4km from the Rift Valley and progresses to the plains and a further descent takes us down to the diatomite mines known as Gicheru.
Throughout the trail, you can spot farm roads, rocky escarpments, shrubs and thickets. If you are well-versed in herbs, you can tell there is plenty of sage by the sweet smell in the air.
What is so special about this trail
- Diatomite mines. Diatomite is used as a filter for oils and beers and it’s also used in toothpaste. Come see where this mineral is mined!
- Vegetation. The area has shrubs and thickets that are only found in semi-arid areas.
- Scenery. The trail offers panoramic views of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), Mt Suswa and Mt Longonot
Challenge level
This is a challenging hike and not for the faint-hearted. The distance is about 18km. The environment is very hot and dry, with little cloud cover, thus you need plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
The ground is covered with loose rocks thus you need to be careful and watch your every step. The paths on the escarpments are also covered with thorny bushes, so ensure that you have long-sleeved shirts and pants to avoid getting scratched.
The Build Resilience at Gicheru mines trail also has some steep escarpments which take long to cover.
Logistics
The central meeting point is on the benches near Bata Hilton Nairobi CBD. From there, we head out to take public transport to Mboroti, near Kikuyu.
The trail is also self-drive friendly in case you don’t want to take public transport.
What do you need for the trail?
- Hiking boots
- Trekking pole
- Backpack
- Snacks such as nuts, granola bars, fruits, fresh juice,
- 3 – 4Litres of water (bring a reusable water bottle or a hydration pack).
- Sunhat and sunscreen
- Sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and the reflection of the diatomite mines surface
- Quick-dry clothes to lessen the discomfort from sweating
Here’s a list of resources for hiking gear you can check out.
Hiking Gear Vendors – Lets Drift
Can you bring your kids with you?
No. The trail is difficult and NOT child friendly.
Similar Trails
If you like Gicheru, you could also try William Hill and the Hikeathon.
Now that you know all about Gicheru, we can’t wait to see you on the trails!
