It starts as a single stream of water flowing through a bed of rocks, only to reach an abrupt end characterized by a jagged rocky terrain. This outcrop breaks this single water stream into, not three, not four, but fourteen individual cascades. Some cascades are more voluminous than others, but all make the 27 metre drop before pooling at the bottom where the streams rejoin and flow on a unified path. The number of these cascades inspire the name of this magnificent waterbody: Fourteen Falls.
The splendour of Fourteen Falls is not just limited to its dramatic interruption of the Athi River’s smooth flow. Overlooking the falls is yet another physical feature. Some refer to by its Maasai name: Ol Donyo Sabuk, others by its Kamba name: Kyanzavi, but it is best known by its Swahili name: Kilimambogo, an ode to the numerous buffaloes that call this mountain home. The stark contrast between the sturdy mountainous landscape in the distance and the swift flowing waters at the falls is awe inspiring.
A visit to the Fourteen Falls is rewarded with scenic views and exhilarating adventure. First off is a boat ride that takes you across the length of the river before being navigated upstream to get visitors as close as possible to the base of the falls. This vantage point offers the best view of the Fourteen Falls, and perhaps even offers one the chance to count those streams and confirm whether fourteen is the correct tally! Once the boat docks on the rocky banks at the far side, visitors can take a leisurely stroll around and catch glimpses of the birds that nest in surrounding trees. The daredevils that reside close to the falls come by for some fun, diving off the cliffs and plunging into the waters below, a gut-wrenching move that leaves onlookers amazed and terrified in equal measure.
A trip to the Fourteen Falls is not a far-fetched idea. This unique scenery is located off the Thika-Garissa Road turning at Makutano Junction. It is approximately 15 kilometres on the fringe of Thika town, almost straddled between the Kiambu and Machakos county border. The thunderous noise of the water as it hits the boulders is a telltale sign that the falls are close- by.
If you have toured the place before, leave a comment below sharing your experience!
