Awhum Waterfall

The Awhum falls drop over a large rock outcrop in the hills north of Enugu, running down the face into a stream below and forming a shallow cave behind the water. The site sits next to the Monastery of the Holy Trinity, a Cistercian foundation whose monks farm the land, keep bees and receive visitors, and the combination of monastery and waterfall gives the place a reputation for healing: many Nigerian visitors come specifically to bathe in or take away the water, which is believed to cure ailments. A path descends through forest from the monastery road to the fall. It is busy with pilgrims at weekends and quiet during the week.

What you actually see

• The rock face fall - the water running down the outcrop.
• The cave behind - the shallow space under the falling water.
• The monastery - the Cistercian foundation above the falls.
• Pilgrim bathing - visitors taking and using the water.

When to go

September to December after the rains for the strongest flow. Weekends bring the most pilgrims; weekdays are quiet. Mornings are cooler for the descent and climb back.

Honest expectations

The path down is steep, muddy and slippery. The site is a place of religious practice for many visitors and behaviour should reflect that. Flow weakens in the dry season. Monastery visiting hours are restricted and silence is expected in the grounds.

Nearby

Enugu lies south; Ngwo pine forest is closer to the city.