Gura River Chase: Running with the Fastest
The trek along the Gura River is one of the most unique hiking trails. Dubbed the fastest river in Africa, you could be forgiven for wanting to confirm that allegation. So, Let’s Drift will come with you on the Gura River Chase. Both to see the look on your face when you realize that the rumors were true and to behold the amazing phenomenon that is the Gura River. The river flows from the Aberdare Ranges and through Nyeri and Nyandarua counties. The Gura River Chase gives you an opportunity to walk side by side with the river as it bolts down the slopes of Central Kenya.
Key Attractions
- With a destination so far it necessitates a 5am start, the Gura River is formidable. It flows strong and loudly. In fact, as you do your stretches before the walk at the trail head, you cannot help but have your anticipation fueled by the sounds of the fervent flow of water.
- The river flows through so many places with all sorts of things from farms to forests. Thus, it carries with it stories of beautiful and diverse places. The determination with which it flows by will encourage you. It pushes you to dare step in the water. The Gura River Chase will require you to get wet. It can be a little daunting to balance on rocks that might not be too stable but it will do wonders for your mettle. You will leave the Gura River Chase a changed person or only slightly energized, if from the constant crisscrossing of the river alone.
- The river boasts various waterfalls, some big some small. This is its way of urging you forward. It is its way of rubbing the sweat off your brow and patting you on the back.
Challenge Level
The Gura River Chase, as threatening as it sounds, is a moderately challenging experience. You will be able to make it to the end of the hike in one piece, albeit a little wet and tired with barking zgwembe.
Logistics
The central meeting point is on the benches near Bata Hilton Nairobi CBD. From there, we head out to take public transport to Othaya. The journey to the starting point is about three hours long.
The trail is also self-drive friendly in case you don’t want to take public transport.
What do you need for the trail?
Upper body:
- Head: Fleece Marvin/ hat
- Hiking buff/ scarf
- Sports bra
- Thermal T-shirt (polyester)
- Fleece jacket
- Down jacket
- Shell jacket
- Raincoat/poncho
- Water-resistant Gloves
Lower body:
- Thermal sleeves
- Hiking pants/Summit pants with fleece/Waterproof pants.
- Cotton socks (+ an extra pair or two in your backpack)
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Gaiters
Backpack:
- 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
- Headlamp
- 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. While the Gura River Chase is a unique hiking experience, the children should probably sit this one out.
Now that you know about Gura River Chase, we hope to see you will join us soon!
Similar trails
If you are a fan of unique hiking trails in Kenya, Book now, be notified when tickets become available. Similar trails to the Gura River Chase are:
Kiama Riverline and Kijabe River Trek
