Hiking in Nyeri and beyond
Are you ready to lace up your hiking boots, embrace the thrill of the wild, and conquer one of Kenya’s most scenic peaks? At Hike Central Nyeri, we’re thrilled to invite you on an unforgettable journey to Mt. Kilimambogo in Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park—a hike that promises breathtaking views, a dash of history, and a whole lot of adventure! And guess what? After the hike, we’ll treat you to a refreshing visit to the iconic 14 Falls and a drive through lush pineapple plantations. Sounds like a dream? Well, it’s time to turn that dream into reality!
The Journey Begins
Our journey kicks off with a scenic drive from Nyeri, passing through the lush landscapes of central Kenya. As we approach the park, the imposing silhouette of Mt. Kilimambogo, standing at 2,145 meters above sea level, beckons adventurers from all walks of life.
The Hike: A 12.4-Kilometer Expedition
The 18 kilometer round-trip (12.4km if you cut through the rock hyrax trail) hike is designed for both seasoned hikers and enthusiastic beginners. The well-marked trails meander through dense forests, home to a variety of wildlife including buffaloes, colobus monkeys, and over 45 bird species. As we ascend, the trail becomes steeper, offering both a challenge and the reward of panoramic vistas.
Historical Highlights
Midway through our ascent, we’ll encounter the intriguing gravesite of Sir William Northrup McMillan, an American philanthropist who made Kenya his home in the early 1900s. His final resting place, along with that of his wife and loyal dog, adds a touch of historical mystique to our journey.
Summit Views
Reaching the summit, hikers are greeted with sweeping views of the Kenyan landscape. On clear days, the sightlines extend to Nairobi’s skyline, the industrial town of Thika, and even the distant peaks of Mount Kenya and Mount Kilimanjaro.
Descent and Pineapple Plantations
After soaking in the summit’s splendor, we’ll begin our descent, which is equally rewarding. The journey down offers a different perspective of the terrain and a chance to spot wildlife we might have missed on the way up. Once back at the base, our adventure continues with a drive through the expansive pineapple plantations of Del Monte, offering a visual and aromatic treat.
The Grand Finale: Fourteen Falls
Our final stop is the renowned Fourteen Falls near Thika. This natural wonder boasts 14 distinct waterfalls cascading in unison, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Here, you can indulge in activities like boating and fishing, or simply relax and enjoy the serene environment.
Book Your Adventure Today!
At Hike Central Nyeri, we pride ourselves on offering well-organized, safe, and enjoyable hiking experiences. Our knowledgeable guides ensure that every participant gains insights into the natural and historical significance of the areas we explore. Whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a group, we cater to all, ensuring that your adventure is memorable.
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to explore one of Kenya’s lesser-known treasures. Join us for a day filled with adventure, history, and natural beauty. To secure your spot on our next Mt. Kilimambogo hike and Fourteen Falls tour, book now. Adventure awaits with Hike Central Nyeri!
Remember:
IMPORTANT DETAILS:
Boarding point Nyeri: Naivas Supermarket
Boarding time Nyeri: 5:00 am
Departure time Nyeri: 5:15 am (very strict on this)
Boarding point Karatina: Mathais Supermarket
Boarding time Karatina: 5:45 am
Departure time Karatina: 6:00 am (very strict on this)
Boarding point Nairobi: International House
Boarding time Nairobi: 6:45 am
Departure time Nairobi: 7:00 am (very strict on this)
Lipa Pole Pole is available for this hike.
Waterfall
Landscapes
Bird watching
5:00AM: Arrive at Naivas Supermarket Nyeri and board
5:15AM: Depart from Nyeri town
5:45AM: Arrive at Mathais Supermarket Karatina town and board
6:00AM: Depart from Karatina town
8:00AM: Arrive at Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park gate and do preworkout stretches and hike starts.
12:00PM: Reach at the Mt. Kilimambogo Summit, have your snacks and take photographs.
2:00PM: Set off for the gate
3:00PM: Arrive at the gate and depart for 14 falls.
3:30PM: Arrive at the 14 Falls and take pictures.
5:30PM: Stop at Karatina Town
6:00PM: Stop at Nyeri town concluding our event.
Essentials:
Sun protection:
Comfort and convenience:
Optional items:
Preparation:
Physical Fitness: Hiking to Ford Falls requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
Stretch and Warm Up: Before setting off, perform some light stretches and warm-up exercises to prevent injuries.
Check the Weather: The weather on Mount Kenya can be unpredictable. Check the weather forecast before your hike and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
Strenuous Exercises: Refrain from strenuous exercises for days prior to the day of the hike.
Foot Care: Cut your toenails short for comfort in the boots and to avoid injuries.
Hydration: Hydrate adequately for 7 days prior to the hike.
Supplies: Stock your supplies (gear, snacks, equipment etc) the day before the hike, we only stop for emergencies.
Happy hiking! 😊