Overview
Gurara Falls is a broad waterfall on the Gurara River in Niger State, in the North Central zone, where the river drops across a wide rock shelf into a pool below. Its width rather than its height is what makes it distinctive, and the flow changes considerably between the rainy and dry seasons.
History
The falls take their name from the river, which rises on the high ground of the middle belt and flows towards the Niger. The area lies in country associated with Gwari and neighbouring communities, and local accounts connect the name to a river deity. Colonial-era records note the site, and it was developed as a picnic and recreation point in the second half of the twentieth century as road access improved. The Gurara River has since been used for water supply schemes serving the region.
What to expect
The falls are broadest and loudest in the rains, when the whole shelf carries water; in the dry season the flow narrows into channels and more of the rock is exposed. Paths lead to viewpoints above and beside the drop, and the ground close to the water is rock and can be slippery. Facilities at the site have changed over the years, so check current visitor information before planning a trip.