Farin Ruwa: The Majestic White Waterfall

 

Waterfalls are one of the Almighty’s wonders proof of His existence and majesty. After our Guara-Guara trip, we decided to visit Farin Ruwa, the second tallest waterfall in Nigeria, located in Nasarawa State.

A sweet Night Before the Adventure

I stayed awake throughout the night, it is the last 10 nights of Ramadan, striving to make the most of them. I even asked Asa and Founder to wake me up by 6 AM in case I fell asleep funny enough, I never did! After my prayers and dhikr (remembrance of Almighty Allah), I tended to my sweet plants, which are blossoming beautifully (may Almighty protect them from the evil eye). Oh! I also got a new addition to my little plant family lemongrass for the outdoors.

The Journey Begins

We agreed to meet at AYA by 7:00 AM and leave by 7:30 AM, but as usual, some delays happened due to car issues. Hercule, the timekeeper, was there on time, alongside Selfiey, myself, and Peruzzi. They were surprised to see me because I hadn’t indicated I was coming I was initially supposed to go for a trail-setting on the mountain but changed my mind, thanks to pretty Miss Sandra, who gave me an option to return to Abuja that same day.

The rest of the crew arrived gradually Mr. and Mrs. Eze, Ebus, Mr. Josie, Lizzy (aka Miss Crocs), and Cool Francis followed by Mrs. Magdaline and Tega. As we exchanged greetings, Adventure Lord arrived, just as Magdaline realized she had forgotten her blanket! She ordered a delivery, and Adventure Lord decided to wait behind to collect it while the others left ahead of us.

Meanwhile, Miss Sandra was waiting for her driver, who had gone for school runs, and Oscar had yet to join us. After another 15 minutes Oscar, OBO, Asa and Lizzy arrived (and a bit of grumbling about delays), we finally hit the road at 9:00 AM. Oh, how I had missed being on a road trip!

A Brief History of Farin Ruwa

"Farin Ruwa" is a Hausa phrase that translates to "white water," named after the misty white appearance of the falls from a distance.

It is one of the highest waterfalls in Nigeria, with a drop of approximately 150 meters.

Known for its impressive volume of water, it remains a breathtaking sight, especially in the rainy season.

It is located in Wamba Local Government Area, Nasarawa State.

Road Trip Chronicles: Unexpected Delays & Fun Stops

One hour and 30 minutes into the journey, we stopped at Shafa fuel station in Keffi, where the first batch of travelers waited for us. Some grabbed water, drinks, and snacks from the nearby supermarket. We also received walkie-talkies for communication between the four cars.

Just as we were about to continue, Mr. Oscar’s car battery protested, demanding food too! We tried boosting it with another car battery, but the first attempt failed probably because it was from a towing van (trail-setters will understand this struggle, lol!). Luckily, Francis’ battery saved the day, and we got moving again.

While they were fixing Oscar’s car, Lizzy was battling with network issues just to pay for her biscuits and drink. The way she was pacing and frowning at her phone ehn network can really embarrass someone sometimes shaa!

Later, Adventure Lord’s car fan belt snapped! We had to find a mechanic and get it fixed, which took another 30 minutes. But hey, we were ready for adventure, so our minds were prepared. I even dozed off while waiting.

The Nasarawa State government has now established a tollgate, and every car had to pay based on type before passing.

We rejoined the others at a village called Toto (yes, that's the real name!). This town is famous for ram and goat suya, well-seasoned veggies, and fresh, cheap mangoes. Pretty Miss Sandra bought some vegetables, while Peruzzi and others got meat and drinks.

By now, it was already noon, and we still had three more hours to go!

The Final Stretch & The Majestic Arrival

We pushed forward with renewed energy, passing through Sim Baki town and Mararaba Gorgon, where we picked up a local guide to lead us to Mama Town (yes, another interesting name!).

After two hours, we could see the waterfall from afar, making us think it was close. Spoiler alert: It wasn’t!

We had to report to the village head and present our team for clearance. Just as we got close, Mrs. Magdaline’s car ran out of fuel! Oh, and before that, Adventure Lord’s battery protested again. Luckily, Mr. Eze saved the day.

Finally, we made it to the starting point of the hike. At that moment, Evelyn gave me the longest teddy-bear hug 10 minutes straight! I needed that hug, especially since I was fasting and the heat was intense.

The hike to the waterfall takes one hour on foot, but since Dami, Miss Sandra, and I had to return to Abuja the same day, we took bikes to save time. Even so, we still had to hike for 30 more minutes to reach the waterfall. Oh boy, what an adventure!

There is no good road, but at least it was motorable. Is there any word like that? There is no MTN network, and no noise; there is electricity. And most importantly, it is safe with no insecurity history. This town is so peaceful.

I can’t help but wish we had a visionary tourism leader who could truly harness the potential of this place. With the right investment and management, Farin Ruwa could become a top-tier tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over.

The Magic of Farin Ruwa

Upon arrival, we paid an entry fee of ₦200 and began our final ascent. The environment gave off a safari vibe tall trees, lush greenery, and a serene atmosphere. But the best part? A mini beach vibe!

Since it was dry season, we could hike closer to the waterfall than usual. The experience was unquantifiable the pure, fresh air, the soothing sound of cascading water, and the beauty of Almighty's creation.

At that moment, I felt all my worries wash away. Even someone who had recently upset me I forgave them right there in the presence of this magnificent waterfall. There was so much peace in that place.

The Journey Back

We couldn’t stay long because we needed to return before nightfall. We hurried back, hopped on bikes, and found our driver already coming to drag us back, knowing it was getting late.

By past 4 PM, we were on the road again, heading back to Abuja, where civilization awaited.

Life Lessons from Adventure

Adventure is more than just travel it is a journey of self-discovery.

The road won’t always be smooth, but you don’t turn back.

There are terrains to conquer, and though some steps may be easy, the next ones may not be.

Challenges will arise, but solutions will too.

When you finally reach your destination, the struggles become worth it.

And just as you catch your breath, your adventurous spirit will already be looking forward to the next challenge!

Gratitude

I am grateful for Almighty’s mercy and the strength to witness His masterpiece.

I am grateful to pretty Miss Sandra, who gave me a ride back may Almighty bless you abundantly!

I am grateful for Trail Pilots of Naija Adventure, an amazing group of people filled with good vibes and unforgettable memories.

So, where will you start ticking off your bucket list?

Join us for our next holiday trip to Guara-Guara with Peruzzi Vibes! On 1st of April 2025.

Photos credit goes to Mr Emmanuel aka Selfiey the great.

Peace, y’all!