Losing All Chalant on the Komothai Trail
You know those people who are fazed by nothing? They could be in the middle of a robbery and they would still manage that bored look on their faces? People who will bother you because nothing bothers them? People who have mastered the art of taking it easy? The Komothai Trail is the hiking trails of those people. This trail cares about nothing. It is not lazy, it is just comfortable with what it is and what it has to offer. As a distinguished member of the list of affordable hiking trips, the Komothai trail will challenge you just enough to sweat through multiple layers of clothing but not so much that you will need a muscle transplant after.
Key Attractions
- A little ways past Ruiru, in Wangui, sits the Komothai hiking trail. It starts with a deceptively leisurely walk through tea farms. It is unclear what makes it seem leisurely but ends up being super trying. Maybe it is the view or maybe it is the unencumbered view of the sky and the horizon that lies beyond. At this point, you should start practicing your breathing because it does not get easier.
- Before you go too far, you will come to the first waterfall. This waterfall, unlike most, is not in a hurry. The water seems to take it’s time down the cliff. It is almost like it does not obey the urgency of gravity. The Komothai hiking experience does not end here, much as you might hope it does because this next part will be harrowing. Next comes a trek through the forest. The upside is that you will not be sunburnt. At the edge of the forest will be a steep decline at the end of which will be your second waterfall treat of the day. The Let’s Drift list of affordable hiking trips dishes out waterfalls like tic-tac.
- You will approach the second waterfall from above. As you descend down, you will feel like you are watching a drone shot scene in 3D. Slowly, the waterfall will grow from a tiny speck in your sights into the monument it will be when you are standing at the foot. For a minute, you will forget about the sojourn back up the hill.
Challenge Level
The Komothai hiking trail is only moderately challenging. You will enjoy the sights and the company of other drifters so much, you will want to do it again. Perhaps a higher challenge level next time? Take solace in the knowledge that before and/or after the hike, you can enjoy some kibanda tea.
Logistics
The central meeting point is on the benches near Bata Hilton Nairobi CBD. From there, we head out to take public transport to Wangui. The journey to the starting point is about one and a half hours long.
The trail is NOT self-drive friendly.
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?
Yes, Komothai is suitable for older active children.
Now that you know about Komothai, we hope to see you on the trails!
Similar trails
If you are a fan of interesting affordable hiking trips in Kenya, Book now, be notified when tickets become available. Similar trails to Komothai are:
Tigoni and the Githiga-Karirana Traverse
