Hikemaniak Elephant Hill Hike
Schedule
Sat Oct 19 2024 at 05:00 am to 08:00 pm
UTC+03:00Location
Kinangop, Njabini | Nairobi, NA
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Join the home of Mountain lovers to one of the Aberdares finest trails!!We approach the hill from Njabini Forest Station (former Kinangop South Forest Station), about 4km from Njabini shopping center. The hike up the hill takes 4 to 5 hours after starting at an altitude of 2500m at the Forest Station. The first few kilometers are over relatively flat forest covered terrain, with the occasional herd of cattle grazing the glades in the forest a testament to the growing push by human settlements into the receding forest boundary. On either side of the trail, there is evidence of human cultivation as part of the shamba system. further, up the trail welcomes the Bamboo zone. The narrow trail, punctuated every few steps by treacherous mud, at this point is covered by a canopy of towering bamboo with only filtered light getting through, as you continue trudging up the now steeper path. The occasional elephant footprint and droppings from various animal species are a constant reminder that you are in a game reserve teeming with wildlife.
After what seems like hours of plodding through the muck and fighting the urge to just throw in the towel and turn around, the trail finally levels off and the Bamboo thins out as you get to the moorland zone, characterized by the stunning array of outlandish flora Tussock Grass, and Giant Heather among others;. Amazing views of the surrounding countryside including the nearby Sasumua Dam down below to your right, and the distant Ndakaini Dam to your left awaits us. You are now at point despair.
The hike goes over slightly rocky terrain at an altitude of over 3400m above sea level, at this level the temperature can drop significantly, as you pick you way across the elephantβs back. After what seems like another endless climb, the trail mercifully levels off to give you your first view of the summit. Once you traverse the Elephantβs back to reach this saddle, the summit at 3650m above sea level is to your left, a short 5 minute climb. The distinctive Kinangop peak, the second highest point on the Aberdares can be seen to the north.
The descent is just as trying as the ascent, taking a big toll on the knees, and another 3 to 4 hours to the Forest station.
Caution: Beware that the weather at this altitude can change for the worse very fast. Ensure you have rain gear and warm clothes, and always keep an eye for signs of clouds forming
Trip Itinerary
Time Activity
5.00am Depart Nairobi for Elephant Hill expected to arrive at Njabini Forest Gate to start the hike at 8.00am
1.30pm Enjoy your snacks at the peak as you view the scenic surroundings
6.00 pm Leave Elephant Hill for Nairobi expecting to arrive at 8.00pm
What to wear and items to carry;
Comfortable running shoes or hiking boot
Gym/Hiking pants (avoid jeans)
Polyester T-shirt (like the football jerseys)
carry an extra change of clothes for after the hike
Sunglasses
Hat/cap
Camera
Binoculars
Drinking water (3litres)
Sunscreen (Arimis oK) and Insect repellant
Snack or picnic Lunch
Energy Bars
Poncho or a light Rain Jacket
Avoid unnecessary Items
Finally, carry loads of fun with you and tag along with a friend!!
Cost
Adults- KES. 3,850 per person, Kes.4,250 for residents and non- residents $95
Included:
Transport to and from Elephant Hill
Park Entry fee
Guide Fee
Paramedic fee and Lunch
Book your space by sending a non-refundable booking fee of KES. 1,200/- via Mpesa Paybill no. 5211729 Account ELEPHANTHILL by 16th October 2024 and balance by 18th October 2024.
For more information, please contact us on [email protected] Call or Whatsapp +254721 51 00 57
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Where is it happening?
Kinangop, Njabini, The Nail Art, Nairobi, Kenya,Nairobi, KenyaEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
