Beating the Path to Theta Dam
Hiking groups in Nairobi are always surprised when after being awake for more than a couple of hours they arrive in small towns with barely any activity. It is easy to forget what it feels like to sleep in because it is quiet and peaceful unlike the chaos that is Kanairo. The Theta Dam trek starts off in a small and quiet town past Ruiru called Mundoro. The few that will be awake will be surprised by the visitors and only watch in astonishment from afar. It can be said that many weekend hiking trips are sightseeing events with some hiking thrown in. The Theta Dam Trek could be one of those or the alternative depending on your physical capabilities.
Key Attractions
- Tucked in the more than 10,000ha Kinale forest, the Theta Dam Trek will start off with a walk through dense forestry. The forest, wide and vast, sports all sorts of vegetation from bamboo trees to clearings of green grass. The tour guides are often eager to share their knowledge of different vegetation like the types of trees and even which plants are or were used for different purposes. Africa is very proud of its history in applying flora for medicinal among other uses.
- The path through the forest will admit you to Theta Dam which is still pretty new. The water in the dam flows from Thiririka River. In a way, you will be a curtain raiser at the dam as it settles into the natural habitat and becomes part of the topography of Gatundu South. It will be interesting to visit again in a few years and see it as a more natural part of the environment up there.
Challenge Level
The Theta Dam Trek is a moderately challenging experience. You will have to squat and maybe even crawl in some places. The trail is almost undisturbed by human activity which makes for an authentic experience strolling in the wild. You might not actually be off the beaten path but you will be pretty close to that on this trail.
Logistics
The central meeting point is on the benches near Bata Hilton Nairobi CBD. From there, we head out to take public transport to Mundoro. The journey to the starting point is about two and a half hours long.
The trail is not self-drive friendly therefore you will have to contend with public transport. If it makes you feel better, these drifts are punctuated with interesting conversation and giddy anticipation for the experience that awaits at the trail head.
What do you need for the trail?
- 3Ltrs water (bring a reusable bottle or a hydration pack)
- Snacks: fruit salad, energy drink, warm beverage, biscuits, sandwich, trail mix (nuts), etc.
- Personal items (ID, pocket money, hand sanitizer, facemask, phone, and camera, Lighter, Pocket Knife, and First-aid Kit)
- Trekking pole
- Change of clothes and shoes in case you get wet or muddy.
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, sun protection
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 Theta Dam Trek is a moderately challenging hike and might only be suitable for children over twelve years of age with experience in hiking.
Now that you know about Theta Dam Trek, we hope you will join one of these days!
Similar trails
If you would enjoy hiking in Kenya with hiking groups in Nairobi, Book now, be notified when tickets become available. Similar trails to the Theta Dam Trek are:
Kariminu and Migaa
