Breathtaking nature walk to Ford Falls
Ford Falls is located in the castle forest part of Mt. Kenya in Kirinyaga county. The trails start at the main entrance of the castle lodge through a beautiful forest with breathtaking views.
The trail takes a brief, steep, narrow path to reconnect to the forest road, before finally taking another brief, steep descent into the river towards the majestic Ford Fall. We then take the same path back to the starting point covering a total distance of 18km.

Castle Forest Hike Distance and Stats

Distance: 18km

Maximum Elevation: 2,282m

Maximum Elevation Gain: 392m

Duration: 4-6 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Beginner-friendly: Yes

Child-friendly: Yes, 7 years and above

Castle Forest Hike Itinerary

5:20 A.M Meet up at International House

5:30 A.M Departure from International House

06:00 A.M Pick up at Roysambu, Thika road

08:00 A.M Hike Starts

01:30 P.M Mandatory turn-back to avoid encounters with wild animals after dark

What to Wear
Quick-drying t-shirt
Quick-drying pants
Fleece jacket
Sun hat or cap
Well-treaded hiking shoes
What to Carry
3L water and suitable snacks
Rain jacket
Rain pants
Trekking pole
Identification documents

How to Prepare for the Hike

• Engage in active cardio exercises such as aerobics, walking, running, cycling, and swimming among others the week prior to the event.
• Set aside the day before the hike for resting–take a break from exercises.
• Increase your hydration at least two days to the hike.
• Purpose to get enough rest the night before the hike. 
• If on intermittent fasting or on a diet, take a break in the period one day before and after the hike. This way, you will build up your energy reserves for the arduous task ahead.
• Cut your toe nails!
• Have a generous breakfast at least 3 hours before the start of the hike. This ensures that most of the food has been digested by the time you begin the hike, giving you the much-needed energy while ensuring your stomach is not too full for comfort.
• Use the bathroom before leaving the house to reduce the need for bathroom breaks on the commute.
• Set your mind up for conquering yourself. Hiking is more about your mindset than physical preparation. Once you win the battle in your mind, everything else contributes less than 10%. You can do it!