Nithi Falls

Waterfalls in Meru

Nithi Falls: Chogoria Route, Mount Kenya

The objective of Day 1 for hiking parties using Chogoria Route to Batian Peak is to reach and explore Nithi Falls, Lake Ellis and Mugi Hill. Depending on the selected start point – some opt to drive up the 22 km rough and ready, oft-times muddy track through the bamboo zone – the overnight stay is at either Chogoria bandas, a small bunkhouse set near Lake Ellis, Chogoria Roadhead Campsite, or Nithi Falls Camp all at the edge of the forest line. If you opt to drive, it is a good idea to walk the last 5-8 km to acclimatize. From Chogoria Gate (2950 m) the walk to Chogoria Bandas is very pleasant. A much-liked trail, it passes through a dry path with firm underfoot through cedar forest up a ridge south of the clear-waters Ontulili River.

Further up, trending easterly, the path follows a ridge north of the Nithi River to Urumandi Hut (10,100 ft). From the area of the Nithi Falls up to Vivienne Falls the valley floor has only a very gentle slope, and immediately east of Vivienne Falls it is practically flat-floored. The depth of the valley increases markedly, however, and upstream of a point one mile east of Vivienne Falls the valley sides are steep cliffs. At Vivienne Falls is the first of the several steps which occur in the floor of the valley. Also of interest in the area between Mugi hill and Lake Ellis, extending down about 2 km towards the forest edge, are the strews of curious mounds of earth some two to three feet high, and between eight and twelve feet in diameter.

The tiered Nithi Falls, cascading in two steps, is approached from the top. Part of its unique appeal is the rock wall of finely chiseled moraine – accumulated earth and stones deposited by a glacier – best seen at the fall’s base. Still, due care and precaution are necessary as most of the cliff sections are inaccessibly steep. The floor of the Nithi Falls canyon where the rock pool lies is formed of heaps of fallen blocks of partly cemented moraine, with the river itself running among the blocks. The more bouldery nature of the upper part of the moraine is also seen in a series of caves on the south side of the valley littered around with scattered boulders. Nithi Falls, the caves and canyon overgrown with alpine flora are immensely epic.


Touring waterfalls in Kenya offers a refreshing and adventurous experience, showcasing the country’s stunning natural beauty. Each waterfall – many still little known – provides a unique and memorable experience, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply the opportunity to connect with nature


Famous for its wildlife, rich agricultural lands, and stunning natural attractions, Meru County, on the north-eastern slopes of Mount Kenya, is the immemorial enclave of the Ameru nation. Inhabited mainly by the sub-tribes of Imenti, Tigania, Igembe, and Tharaka, Meru County has one of the best developed touring circuits.

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What’s The Air Like In Meru?

The topography of Meru County has a critical influence on its climate. Temperatures range from a low of 8 Degrees to a high of 32 Degrees Celsius during the cold and hot seasons respectively. 

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