Ruthigiti and Nachu Caves Hike

CHARGES
Citizens: Ksh. 2,000 Non-Citizens: Ksh. 3,000

01

Hiking in the Metropoilis

 

 

 

Nachu Caves are found within the Rithigiti trail, which is just 41km from Nairobi’s CBD. It treats hikers within the Metropolis region in the larger Kikuyu area in Kiambu County. The total distance covered in the trail is close to 14km, with a maximum altitude of about 2,037m above sea level. The Nachu Caves are around the Lusigetti in Ndeiya, Kikuyu Sub-county. From the alighting point, the caves are 10km into the heart of the Ndeiya locality. Its proximity to the heart of Kenya makes it a simple affair in terms of time and preparation. Sit back and allow us to guide you to the heart of Kikuyu land. 

02

Wandering 

 

 

 

The journey to the cave starts at the CBD, and 1 hour later, you will be at the Nachu Shopping Centre. On foot, we set out, following a rough trail. At this time of the year, the rains have softened the ground, making it easy to appreciate the green vegetation. It passes through Gatine Hills with steep slopes that could swallow a whole animal.

Nachu caves are magnificent, ushering you into a classic life where nature has a way of solving its problems. The vast area is protected, although you can come and go as you like. The region is predominantly Maasai inhabited, although more people come to graze and stay. You can see bare land from the caves, with the Ngong Forest on the horizon. 

It is hard to believe that such beautiful places are within the metropolis. In total, it can take you close to 6 hours to go to the caves and back at the starting point. The Ruthigiti and Nachu Caves get an average score on a difficulty scale. What makes it an adventure, despite its proximity to Nairobi, is the plains and terrain. Locals are friendly, and the view from the caves is magnificent.  In the whole trail, the average elevation gain is 1,894m above sea level, while the highest is 2,037.

03

The Weather

The weather can be hot or wet depending on the time of the year. In May, it is during the long rainy season. When preparing for the hike, consider the weather and plan accordingly. Dress light, but carry warm clothes in case the sky opens up. 

What to Carry Along

 

  1. Foot ware – good hiking boots to scale the rocky terrain, steep climbs and wet ground. Gumboots could do, although not as much as hiking boots.
  1. Clothes – dress light; breathable hiking pants and a polyester t-shirt. However, carry something warm for the night, and if possible, another pair of clothes.
  1. Hiking supplies – get enough water, at least 2 litres in a refillable bottle. Snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses and a torch.
  1. Fitness – the Kimakia trail is easy, apart from the steep ascends along the river. A light warm-up before the hike is sufficient.