Itinerary.

4:45 a.m. Meet up at International House Parking, City Hall Way. Boarding opens.

5:00 a.m. Departure for Njabini Forest Station.

07:30 a.m. Arrival at Njabini Forest Station. Located about 100km from Nairobi CBD, Elephant Hill is dubbed “the ultimate hiking destination” — and rightfully so. The “hill” presents the perfect challenge to the novice hiker looking to conquer a tougher terrain and acclimatize to higher altitudes. The 9km Elephant Hill hike trail starts at the Njabini Forest Station gate, at an elevation of 8,202ft (2,500m) above sea level and ends at the summit, at an elevation of 12,000ft (3,658m) above sea level.

The entire hike up and down takes 7-10 hours, hiking at a moderate pace.

08:00 a.m. Hike Starts. The first 3km stretch features a moderately paved path, cutting through a planted forest, with the occasional flock of sheep and a few cattle revealing evidence of human encroachment. At the end of this path is the official starting point at an elevation of 9,192ft (2,802m) above sea level. A further 1.5km trek on the Elephant Hill Hike gives way to the Bamboo Gate (9,622ft/2,933m above sea level), welcoming you into the narrow, muddy trail of the bamboo zone.

The towering bamboo canopy ensures the trail remains annoyingly wet, slippery, and poorly lit. It is important to be adequately prepared for slips and falls, so wearing a comfortable, waterproof, well-treaded hiking boot is a good idea. The occasional mound of elephant dung and fresh footprints constantly remind you that you are walking through a wildlife zone.

No need to worry though: wild animals naturally keep off the trail, and anyway, you will always be accompanied by an armed guard. The bamboo zone suddenly gives way to the lush moorland at an elevation of 10,679ft (3,255m) above sea level. Most hikers give up at this point, hence its uncanny name

— A Point of Despair. The trail becomes tougher and tougher as you transition from the moorland to the rocky zone, which features scattered shrubs and giant lobelia. Caution is advised while trudging through this terrain, as even a minor fall could cause serious injuries. The Elephant Hill summit stands tall and mighty ahead of you when you get to The Tail (11,526ft/3,513m above sea level). The rest of the trail to the summit is extremely steep — and equally satisfying when you conquer it. With good weather, you just might catch a glimpse of the ruins at a recent airplane crash site. The summit gives you an unforgettable 360° view of the scenic surroundings, including the inviting Kinangop peak

— the second highest peak of the Aberdare — to the North; the nearby Sasumua Dam; and the famous Ndakaini Dam at a distance. The hike down is just as trying as the hike up, testing your knees’ patience against gravity, and making you curse your quest for fitness. But hey, you won’t remember the pain when you look back down the memory lane! 02:30 p.m. Mandatory turn-back and descent in order to avoid encounters with wild animals after dusk 06:00 p.m.

Departure for Nairobi How Should you Prepare For The Elephant Hill Hike.

Fitness Level:- The Elephant Hill hike is no joke and arguably requires if not extremes yet reasonable fitness to get to the summit. This however you shouldn't let it discourage you, because you are not alone.

Infact, you will find out that most people make it to the Point of Despair and only an insignificant number is able to make it to the Tail. Whichever far you get to, consider that as an equally good milestones on the Elephant Hill trail. Remember, you never conquer the mountain, you conquer yourself!

Clothing:- The weather in the Aberdares is highly unpredictable, period. It changes from warm and sunny to foggy with hailstorms within seconds - no warning. Inasmuch as you may not need to dress heavy, at least dress warmly — or to be safe carry warm clothes with you— not forgetting to pack change clothes such as a raincoat or poncho.

Waterproof gaiters will also come handy to keep mud and debris off your hiking boots. As a option, wearing a thermal base layer is a good way to keep warm without carrying bulky clothes for the outer shell.

Footwear:- The Elephant Hill trail is mostly muddy and slippery. Therefore, you MUST wear a pair of proper waterproof hiking boots with a good grip. You will be thankful when they keep your feet warm and save you from countless slips and falls.

Supplies:- Your body will need lots of energy. Be sure to carry enough snacks such as a lunch bar, nuts, fruits, or smoothie. You may also pack a sandwich. The high altitude may take a toll on you, so be sure to carry enough water. Two to three liters should be enough. You can have your water in a hydration pack for ease of carrying and sipping. Make sure you take your water in small sips throughout, especially when you start feeling dizzy or having a mild headache. You may carry some painkillers just in case.

Activities.

• A road trip from Nairobi to Njabini and back Immerse yourself in spectacular nature trails through the Central Kenya Aberdares indigenous forests.
• Hike towards the peak point at an attitude 3,500 meters above sea level Walk through the tropical Bamboo zone with views of various animals and birds Walk through the alpine zone,
• characterized by the unique species of flora like lobelia, senecio, tussock grass, giant heather among others, a great encounter for botany enthusiasts
• Amazing views of the surrounding countryside including the nearby Sasumua Dam and the distant Ndakaini Dam to your left View of various animals, monkeys, elephants, bats and birds Mingle and network with great team and make friends and business acquaintances.
• Preparation for the hike Engage in active cardio exercises such as aerobics, walking, running, cycling, and swimming among others the week prior to the event. Set aside the day before the hike for resting -- take a break from exercises.
• Increase your hydration by at least two days to the hike. Purpose to get enough rest the night before the hike. Increase your carbohydrate intake two days before the hike. This helps boost your energy reserves. If on intermittent fasting or on a diet, take a break in the period one day before and after the hike. Cut your toe nails, please, cut your toe nails! Have a generous breakfast before stepping out of the house -- or at least 3 hours before the start of the event. This ensures that most of the food has been digested by the time you begin the hike, giving you the much-needed energy while ensuring your stomach is not too full for comfort.
• Use the bathroom before leaving the house. This avoids unnecessary bathroom breaks on the commute and during the hike. Set your mind up for conquering yourself. Hiking is 90% mindset, 10% physical preparation. Once you win the battle in your mind, everything else contributes less than 10%. You can do it!