The objective of this hike is to traverse the bamboo section of Ragia Forest, descend into the deep valley of the Sasumua River, and visit Waterfalls 17 and 18 before climbing back out.
Location: Njabini
Starting Point: Ragia Forest Gate
Ending Point: Ragia Forest Gate
Walking Duration: 6 hours
Terrain: Slippery animal trails through thick bamboo forest
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation: Lowest: ___ | Highest: ___
The Ragia Forest trail may start either from Ragia Forest Gate or from Sasumua Dam, depending on the route taken from Njabini. The hike begins along a motorable road that skirts the fringes of Sasumua Dam, which supplies water to Nairobi. Along the way, you are treated to spectacular views of Elephant Hill.
Bamboo Trail
About one kilometre from the dam, the trail leaves the motorable road and enters thick bamboo forest, where you follow animal trails until reaching a clearing that marks the water pipeline wayleave. The struggle through the bamboo eases briefly before the guide suddenly turns left into the dense bamboo once again. The challenging section ends abruptly as the trail drops steeply and the bamboo gives way to rainforest.
From Boots to Butts
Two-Metre Drop into the Sasumua River
During the rainy season, the trail can be extremely slippery, and many hikers give up using their boots and resort to sliding on their butts. As the roar of the waterfall grows louder, the trail drops vertically about 2.5 metres into the Sasumua River. From there, you enjoy a short but exciting river walk to the magnificent Ragia Waterfall (Waterfall 17).
Your camera comes in handy on the centre rock.
Having a Closer Look
The return journey is just as dramatic. While gravity assists the descent, it works against you on the climb back. Butts are replaced by knees and hands (sometimes ladies remember they haven’t visited the manicurist for a while). Once you reach the wayleave, you can decide whether to continue to Waterfall 18 or return to the forest gate.
The Crossing
Getting There
Public Transport
From Nairobi, take a matatu to Njabini from the junction of Keekorock Road and the Nation House roundabout. Alight at Njabini town. At the Njabini matatu stage, you can easily negotiate for a matatu to Sasumua.
Private Transport
Drive towards Njabini and turn right just before the Sasumua River bridge. Continue for approximately four kilometres to the forest gate.
Entry Charges
| Category | Charge (KSh) |
|---|---|
| Residents | 200 |
| Non-residents | 600 |
| Guide fees | 2,000 (per group of up to 10 people) |
| Armed escort | 3,000 |
| Camping | — |
Guide
- Local community organisation
- Kenya Forest Service
Please make prior arrangements.
