Spectacular Waterfalls in Ragia
Did you know that the Let’s Drift Guide Team did a #ReelAdventures feature with Meta (formerly Facebook) earlier this year in March at Ragia Falls? You can find more about that adventure here!
So, to draw inspiration to your bucket list, you might want to try Ragia Falls. This is a trail that will leave you staring at the spectacular waterfalls in awe and also offers a walk into a blissful bamboo garden.
Located in the Aberdare forest, this part of the Aberdare was the home of the Mau Mau fighters who heroically fought for the freedom of Kenya against British colonialism. It’s also approximately 90 Km North of Nairobi which makes it perfect for a day’s hike. Starting at Sasumua Dam (that supplies water to Nairobi) through China’s camp gate the trail proceeds into thick bamboo and follows elephant trails down the valley to a sudden steep drop to Sasumua River which leads to the amazing waterfalls.
What is so special about this trail
- Bamboo garden walk. Remember a famous childhood song that started like this…“In and out the bamboo forest?In and out the bamboo forest? You are my partner…” Well, you get to relive that experience here. This heavenly section of the trail is definitely what you want to walk in as you watch nature’s untainted beauty with air so fresh and sweet.
- Chasing waterfalls. After traversing through the serene bamboo section, one is greeted with the gusting sounds of 2 waterfalls famously known as no.17 and no.18. While enjoying the scenery, it’s likely that one may reminisce on how the freedom fighters relied on the water from the majestic waterfalls for various purposes.
- Duff mpararo (Swimming). Well, where there is water, there’s fun!
- Far-reaching views of Elephant Hill.
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- View of the 1st Waterfalls | PC: Cosmas Rotich
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- Bamboo Trail to the 1st Waterfalls | PC: Peter Ndung’u
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- Posing at the old Bridge | PC: Peter Ndung’u
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- Ragia river | PC: Peter Ndung’u
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- Scenic forest trail | PC: Peter Ndung’u
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- Having Fern | PC: Peter Ndung’u
Challenge level
Be prepared to fall and slip a couple of times!
This is a moderate trail, whose total distance is 18 km, likely to take about 7 hours. The trek to the waterfall is quite challenging as one goes down a deep descent through the forest, where one small misstep can lead to a bad fall. Therefore, good hiking boots with a firm grip are definitely recommended.
During the rainy season, the place can also be seriously slippery and many a hiker may resort to all fours. If you are looking for adventure, these are some of the experiences to look forward to. However, be careful at such points while ascending and descending.
Logistics
For group travel via public service vehicles, the meet-up is at the benches near Bata shop Hilton (opposite Kencom) Nairobi CBD. The guide will be at the meet-up point.
This trip is also self-drive friendly and has safe parking.
Getting to the starting point takes about 2 hours from Nairobi. The trailhead on arrival is at Sasumua Dam through the China’s camp gate.
The estimated transport cost is approximately KShs. 1250 and an additional KWS entrance fee of KShs 333.
What do you need for the trail?
- Good hiking boots
- Trekking pole
- Backpack
- Snacks such as nuts, granola bars, fruits, fresh juice,
- 3 Litres of water (bring a reusable water bottle or a hydration pack)
- Long-sleeved shirts and pants for the thick forest vegetation and warm layered clothing for the cold seasons.
Check out this list of resources for hiking gear you might require.
Hiking Gear Vendors – Lets Drift
Can you bring your kids with you?
No. Ragia trail is difficult and NOT child friendly.
Similar trails
If you like Ragia Falls, you might also want to check out the following similar moderate trails.
Now that you know all about Ragia Falls, we can’t wait to see you on the trails!
