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Zaina- More than Just a Hike

Hey hey! Looking for an interesting experience? Something exciting and fun outside Nairobi? We have you covered, a new product for you that’s different from the other hikes. We created this experience for you, yes you, to experience hidden gems outside Nairobi.

Unlike our other hikes where we go to the start point at once, we have multiple stops along the way for you to see and take in Kenya’s beauty.

The route is from Nairobi -Kenol- Murang’a –Kiriaini -Chinga- Zaina.

What is so special about this experience

  • Chinga Dam. This is the first stop of the tour. It is at Chinga Dam which is the largest water supplier of water in Nyeri. The dam also boasts of boat rides which you can enjoy for only Ksh 200. 
  • Panoramic views of the Aberdares. You’ve probably heard of the Aberdares- we even have hiking trails there. Not to worry, we won’t be hiking the Aberdares, but we will get to see how it looks close by.
  • Zaina falls. Zaina falls is in Ihururu which means ‘a steep place’ . Come see this breathtaking waterfall hidden deep in Nyeri.
  • Mau Mau Caves. The Mau Mau caves have a rich history. These caves were where the Mau Mau freedom fighters would hide from the colonizers as they fought for Kenya’s independence. 
  • Views of Chania River. From the top of the caves, you can see views of Chania river on a clear day.
  • If there is time, there can also be a short stop at Nyeri Museum, where you can travel back in time through Kenya’s history.

Travel back in time to Nyeri. Despite being a big town, Nyeri doesn’t have a mall or pizza shop. You can come and see this town that still has an aesthetic from back in the 1980s.

zaina

zainaChallenge level

This is an easy experience. The total distance amounts to about 8km.

The terrain is mostly gentle slopes except for the descent to the waterfall and the ascent to the Mau Mau caves.

Logistics

The central meeting point is Nairobi CBD on the benches near Bata Hilton. From there, we take the provided transport to go to Zaina.

Since Zaina is under the Drift Express, we can do pickups if you live on the route stipulated.

This experience is also self-drive-friendly.

What do you need for this experience?

  • Hiking boots
  • Trekking pole
  • Backpack
  • Snacks such as nuts, granola bars, fruits, fresh juice,
  • 3 – 4L of water (bring a reusable water bottle or a hydration pack). 
  • Quick-dry clothes
  • Warm clothes. Nyeri can get very cold.

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?

Yes. This is a child-friendly tour. So bring your kids and have a fun-filled weekend full of adventure.

Similar Trails

If you liked Zaina, you might also like Ragia, Satima, Kimakia, Kahunira,  and Gatamaiyu 3