Discovering the Hidden Gems of Kieni Forest: Waterfalls and Tea Plantations

Introduction:
Kieni Forest, nestled within the southern part of Aberdares range, is a nature lover’s paradise and an important ecosystem and watershed for the surrounding area. Covering over 40,000 acres, this forest is home to a variety of plant and animal species, as well as a beautiful tea plantation. But did you know that this forest also boasts some hidden gems that are well worth a visit? In this blog post, I’ll share my experience exploring the three waterfalls and tea plantation nestled within Kieni Forest.
Exploring the tea plantation:

We started our adventure by being dropped off at the entrance of Kieni Forest. Our guide led us through a lush tea plantation that surrounds the forest. The neatly arranged rows of tea plants stretched out as far as the eye could see, and the aroma of freshly brewed tea filled the air.
Hiking through Kieni Forest:

After a short walk through the tea plantation, we reached the edge of Kieni Forest. As we stepped inside the forest, we were welcomed by the peaceful sound of birds and the rustling of leaves. The trail to the waterfalls was clearly marked, and our guide led us through the winding paths of the forest. The hike was not too challenging, but it did require a bit of physical exertion.
First waterfall:

Finally, after about an hour of hiking, we reached the first of the three waterfalls. The sight was breathtaking – the water cascaded down the rocky cliffs in a mesmerizing display of nature’s power and beauty. This waterfall was particularly striking, with a long and powerful flow that fell into a deep pool. Our guide advised us that it wasn’t safe to swim in the pool, so we contented ourselves with taking pictures and admiring the view.

Second waterfall:
As we continued along the trail, we encountered the second waterfall, which was a bit smaller than the first, but still impressive in its own right. The water flowed down the rocky cliff in a gentle, soothing cascade, and there was a shallow pool at its base. We took a break here to cool off in the crystal-clear water, which was incredibly refreshing after our long hike.

Third waterfall:
The second waterfall continued on to the third waterfall, which was the smallest of the three but still a lovely sight to behold. The water flowed down a narrow channel, creating a delicate mist that drifted through the air.

At the third waterfall, there was a much deeper pool that was perfect for swimming. We couldn’t resist the temptation to jump into the cool water and enjoy a leisurely swim in the idyllic setting.

Conclusion:
As we dried off and prepared to leave Kieni Forest, we reflected on our unforgettable adventure. The forest and its hidden gems had left a lasting impression on us, and we were grateful for the opportunity to experience its natural wonders. We highly recommend visiting Kieni Forest and its three waterfalls to anyone looking for an unforgettable nature experience.
