Gatamaiyu Campsite Riverline Trek - Mt Kenya Prep-Hike 02 

Gatamaiyu Campsite Riverline is a beginner, child, and family-friendly hiking trail in Gatamaiyu Forest. It is part of the Aberdare ecosystem that forms Kereita Forest. The forest borders the Aberdare mountain ranges to the south. The forest is a community-based setup. Kijabe Environment Volunteers (KENVO) collaborates with Kenyan Forestry Service in developing sustainable nature conservation programs in the Kikuyu Escarpment Forest. Through this collaboration, they have opened several hiking trails within the forest reserve. Gatamaiyu is under this umbrella. 

Gatamaiyu evokes emotional awareness surrounding the decline of Kenya's ancient highland forests. The path feels relatively intact, with old rickety bridges spanning the river. If you observe keenly, you can see fresh elephant tracks. It's unlikely to find elephants on the hiking paths. However, the Kenya forest service provides two armed rangers to accompany the guests as they hike. Gatamaiyu reveals what Kenyan highlands might have looked like decades ago. Magical!

Gatamaiyu is about 56 Kilometers from Nairobi hence easily accessible. KENVO extends kind service to all their clients. They will wait or organize a guide who can pick you up from the Kimende shopping center. It is unlikely to get lost from the main highway about 12 kilometers to the starting point. The trail starts at Gatamaiyu forest gate next to the Fisheries office. Here at the offices, also there is a public campsite. The track follows the river line leading to the stunning misty waterfalls. Gatamaiyu is the source of the Athi River. You will enjoy history from our guides about the contribution of this forest during the colonial period. It's also a water catchment area. With Prior arrangements, Tourists can enjoy fishing after the hike. Fish and Cook; experience this signature experience in Gatamaiyu.

Gatamaiyu Forest Attractions

• The indigenous forest.

• Natural woods and habitat to the forest

• Wildlife; Elephants, Sykes monkeys, black & white Columbus Monkeys

• Birdlife; hosts a globally threatened Abbot's starling, among others like the bar-tailed trogons.

• Scenic waterfall with plunge pools

Cost Per Person on Self Drive Option

Kenya Citizens: Kshs 2,999

Kenya Residents: Kshs 3,999

Non-Residents: USD 55

Cost Per Person on Group Transport

Kenya Citizens: Kshs 2,999

Kenya Residents: Kshs 3,999

Non-Residents: USD 55

Included in the cost

 Round transport

 Guide Fee

 Photography

 Facilitation fee

Excluded in the Price

 Entrance Fee

 Transport (for Self-drive option)

 Insurance

 Tips & Gratuities

 Anything else not mentioned in the Inclusions

What to Carry

 Hiking Boots with excellent Grip

 Poncho

 Fleece jacket or a Hiking Down Jacket

 Thermal T-shirt

 Hiking Pant

 Trekking Pole

 Hiking Backpack

 Camelback to carry water

 At least 2litres of water

 Change clothes after the Hike; extra T-shirt, Pants, and sports shoes.

Highlights

Starting Point: Gatamaiyu Fisheries Offices

Ending point: Gatamaiyu Gate Fisheries Offices

Estimated Walking duration: 2 hours to 4 Hours

Terrain

It is a River line Trek, under a canopy of an indigenous forest, with a few muddy sections.

Difficulty: Easy walk. Ideal for Beginners to Hiking, Children, or Families.