Kijabe River Trek: Going with the Flow
Speaking of challenging hiking trails go, the Kijabe River Trek experience is designed like an episode of Survivor. It is survival for the fittest and the bravest on that trail. Weekend hiking trips do not always have to be breezy, push yourself a little bit. This is the perfect place to do exactly that. This trail will not be shy in demanding that you go harder. It will strip you down and humiliate then leave you to pick yourself up and keep going. Even then, once your muscles are done complaining you will appreciate the experience. You will be grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful country.
Key Attractions
- Tucked in the Kikuyu escarpment, the Kijabe River Trek is an experience along the seasonal Kijabe River starting on a tarmac road and through a canopy of wild brush.
- It takes you through the forest and admits you onto the river trek with a small waterfall whose enthusiasm is dependent on the seasons. Whether you are welcomed with a trickle or a gush, consider yourself on notice and focus up.
- Through the trek, you may feast your eyes on a pageant of hills and the sprawling Great Rift Valley. There is something about walking a trail that treats you to views, you tend to lose yourself in the images before you. This could be a reprieve from the challenging hiking trail.
- You may also come upon a cave or two. The decision to venture past the mouth is for you and your curiosity to make. Whatever you decide, it is interesting to see how geography curves and bends.
Challenge Level
Braving the Kijabe River trek is going to be a challenging endeavor. Your patience for moody terrain will be tried. Your muscles will be pushed to their very breaking point. Challenging hiking trails like the Kijabe River Trek will either break you or toughen you up for more trying weekend hiking trips.
Logistics
The central meeting point is on the benches near Bata Hilton Nairobi CBD. From there, we head out to take public transport to Gichiengo – Kimende. The journey to the starting point is about two hours long.
The trail is not self-drive friendly but public transport can cost as little as 400 shillings.
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. The Kijabe River Trek is absolutely wonderful with its views but it is no place for children under 15 years old.
Now that you know about the Kijabe River Trek, we hope to see you on the trails!
Similar trails
If you are a fan of challenging hiking trails for your weekend hiking trips, Book now, be notified when tickets become available. Similar trails to the Kijabe River Trek are:
Theta Dam Trek and Kenze Gorges
