1 Day Hike Mt. Kilimambogo | Thika


  • 1 DAY HIKE MT. KILIMAMBOGO | THIKA.

    Paradise On Foot.
     
    If you're looking for an adventure-filled day trip outside of Nairobi, a hike up Mt. Kilimambogo in Thika is a great option. This mountain is located in the Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape from the top.
     
    The hike itself takes about 3-4 hours to complete, depending on your fitness level. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow, but it does require some scrambling over rocks and steep inclines.
     
    Along the way, you'll pass through lush forests and grasslands, and may even spot some wildlife, such as baboons and antelopes. Once you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the park and the surrounding countryside.
     
    Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as well as sunscreen and a hat, as it can get quite hot during the day. And don't forget your camera – you'll want to capture the amazing views from the top of Mt. Kilimambogo!
     
    This ancient rock juts high above the Athi plains and is hazily visible from Nairobi.
     
    In 1902, D. Powell-Cotton became the first person to climb it, followed not long after by Sir William Northrup MacMillan, an American millionaire who acquired the mountain. Over time, Sir William Northrup entertained various eminent visitors, including Winston Churchill and ex-President Theodore Roosevelt. 
     
    As you make your way to the summit, you'll have the opportunity to visit the graves of MacMillan, his wife, and their servant Louise Decker. Before his death, MacMillan bequeathed the mountain, which is why he was buried there.
     
    You can also mingle with the locals, who will tell you why Swahili and Bantu people refer to it as "the mountain of Buffalos," while the Masai people call it "the big mountain." 
     
    Once you reach the summit, you'll be standing at a strategic point to marvel at the magnificent panoramic views of the Athi river, the pineapple fields of Thika (Delmonte Farm), and the snow-capped Mt. Kenya, as well as Mt. Kilimanjaro.

    MAKE A SHORT STOP TO VIEW THE FALL, AND IT IS WORTHWHILE.
     
    Witness the magnificent sight of a broad cascade of white water plunging 30 meters over a precipice, which is famously known as "Fourteen Falls" due to its many lips. 
    Breathe in the refreshing cool air, which is a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of busy town life. 
     
    If you are a beginner seeking to embark on your outdoor fitness journey, consider Mt. Kilimambogo as the perfect trail to kickstart your adventure. 
     
    On the other hand, if you are a seasoned mountain climber or hiker, Mt. Kilimambogo serves as a friendly reminder of why you love hiking.

    MT. KILIMAMBOGO HIKE DISTANCE & STATISTICS.
    • Distance: 12km
    • Maximum Elevation Gain: 720m
    • Duration: 4-6 hours
    • Difficulty: Fair to moderate
    • Beginner-friendly: Yes
    • Child-friendly: Yes, 7 years and above

     

    6:15 a.m.
    Meet up at International House Parking, City Hall Way.
     
    Boarding opens. 6:30 a.m.
     
    Departure for Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park.

    08:15 a.m.
    Arrival at Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park.

    THE PARK HISTORY:
     
    Ol Donyo Sabuk was once the residence of Lord William Northrop Macmillan. His house still stands at the base of the mountain. Lord William Northrop Macmillan was an American soldier who was knighted by the King of England. In 1901, he and his wife arrived in Kenya to conduct hunting expeditions.
     
    They were known for their philanthropic activities and established the Macmillan Library in central Nairobi. Lord Northrop, his wife, their house help, and their family dog were laid to rest at a site located 7 kilometers along the terrain that leads to the summit of the mountain.

    ABOUT MT. KILIMAMBOGO & EXPECTATIONS.
     
    Mt. Kilimambogo is a mountain that rises to 2,145m above sea level and can be reached by taking a gentle 6km trail. The entire round trip to the summit and back to the gate covers a distance of approximately 12km and typically takes around 4-6 hours of hiking at a moderate pace.
     
    For those who prefer a slightly bigger challenge, the footpath can be skipped and the entire hike can be taken on the dirt road that winds up the mountain.

    This Adds 3km To Your Hike Each Way.
     
    As you trek through the virgin forest, be prepared to witness breathtaking views of the surroundings. Mt. Kilimambogo is an excellent choice for beginner hikers, and for the experienced ones, it is a pleasant reminder of why they love hiking.
     
    Mountaineering not only provides a good cardio workout, but it is also an excellent way to spend quality time with friends and family.

    There Is Something So Pure About Hiking.
     
    Perhaps it's the constant encouragement from others that you're almost at the peak, or the clean air that sweeps away the motor fumes from the busy city life, but one thing is certain - after a hike, you'll feel a sense of well-being. 
     
    As you trek through the hiking terrain, you may have the chance to spot various species of birds, ranging from the African pied wagtail to the African hawk-eagle. You may also come across bushbucks, olive baboons, mongooses, and aardvarks. If you're lucky, you may even spot buffaloes that have become less common over the years. 
     
    There are several observation points on your way to the summit, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Ol Donyo Sabuk area. The summit itself is located 9 kilometers from the main gate and serves as both a picnic and camping site. From the summit, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Mount Kenya and, with binoculars, even catch a glimpse of Mt. Kilimanjaro. 
     
    Don't forget to make a quick stop to view Fourteen Falls - it's definitely worth it. You'll see a broad cascade of white water plunging 30 meters over a precipice with many lips, giving rise to the name "Fourteen Falls." 
     
    Take in the cool air, which will provide much-needed relief from the hustle and bustle of city life.

    8:45 a.m. Hike Starts
     
    18:30 p.m. Mandatory turn-back and descent
     
    05:00 p.m. Departure for Nairobi

    NOTES:
    - Please ensure you arrive on time for the event. Latecomers will be left behind and forfeit the entire amount paid up
    - If you are being picked up along Thika Road, kindly make arrangements with the team lead by 8 p.m. on the evening before the event.
    - Pickup stops will last no longer than 5 minutes.
    - There will be no shopping stops in the morning, so please make sure you have all the necessary supplies beforehand.
    - Please adhere to the set turn-back time to ensure everyone returns on time.
    - It is important to depart punctually for Nairobi to ensure everyone arrives back on time.

     

    How to prepare for the hike.
    Here are some tips to prepare for a hike:
    - Engage in active cardio exercises such as aerobics, walking, running, cycling, or swimming a week before the event.
    - Take a break from exercises on the day before the hike and rest.
    - Increase your hydration at least two days before the hike.
    - Get enough rest the night before the hike.
    - Increase your carbohydrate intake two days before the hike to boost your energy reserves.
    - If you are on intermittent fasting or dieting, take a break one day before and after the hike.
    - Cut your toenails before the hike for your comfort.
    - Have a generous breakfast at least three hours before the start of the event, ensuring that most of the food has been digested by the time you begin the hike.
    - Use the bathroom before leaving the house to avoid 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!

    How to book the Mt. Kilimambogo Hike
    Pay at least 1,800/= to Mpesa, buy goods till 353994, and clear the balance before boarding.

    Booking Notes:
    • Maximum number of tickets: 50
    • Reservation will be made on a first-pay-first-reserved basis.
    • Your ticket gives you 5% off purchases from website payment.
    • Group booking (4 or more tickets) gives you 5% off the ticket cost.
    • Early bird booking gives you 5% off the ticket cost if you pay in full more than 7 days before the event date.

    Cancellation and Refund Policy.
    • Where cancellation is requested more than 48 hours before the event date, a 50% refund of the booking confirmation deposit will be issued.
    • The excess paid above the booking confirmation deposit will be refunded in full.
    • Where cancellation is requested 48 hours or less before the event date, no refund will be issued on the booking confirmation deposit.
    • The excess paid above the booking confirmation deposit will be refunded in full.
    • Latecomers and no-shows forfeit the entire amount paid up.

    Includes:
    • Transport From Nairobi And Back In
    • A Spacious Tour Bus/van/Land Cruiser
    • Entry Fee To The Park Entry Fee To 14 Falls
    • Professional Tour Guides
    • Paramedic Emergency services
    • Game Drives
    • Meals On Full Board, glucose, and 4 fruits
    • Armed ranger fees
    • A liter of water (bring your reusable water bottle), glucose, and 4 fruits Help keep our parks plastic-free.
    • Purchase a soft flask to carry your water in, and forget plastics for good.
    Excludes:
    • Park Fees, Except For Kenyan
    • Refreshment Drinks
    • Any Other Thing Not Mentioned Above
    • Tips and gratuities

    Must Carry.
    • Valid identification document Comfortable sneakers, hiking boots, or other appropriate shoes.
    • Comfortable hiking clothes. (Jeans highly not recommended).
    • Snacks e.g. lunch bar, crisps, nuts, dates, raisins, or fruits.
    • Enough water (at least 2L)
    • Raincoat or rain jacket and pants.

    Activities.
     
    Road trip from Nairobi to Ol Donyo Sabuk and back
    There are some amazing places to see in the expansive Delmonte farms. You can visit the gravesite of Lord Mac Millan, his wife, house girl, and their dog. The Ol Donyo Sabuk National Reserve offers a spectacular view of Mt. Kenya and Mt. Kilimanjaro from the top of the hill. Additionally, you can visit the historical 14 Falls. You can even join a group hike and make new friends, as well as business acquaintances.
     
    *** Note: KWS and KFS parks no longer allow plastics in.
    • Please carry your supplies in reusable containers.
    • It's optional but not a must-have.
    • Marvin hat or baseball cap
    • Sunscreen
    • Hiking pole
     

    Select Booking Date (Total Amount: $30 )

    Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park

    One of the highlights of the park is that you can get to see the animals closely during game drives, walks or during a hike. That is why it is preferable and safer to walk with a guide. You will definitely enjoy wild viewing a variety of wildlife including over 45 species of birds
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    Accomodations

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    **IMPORTANT NOTICE**
     
    Please take note of the following:
     
    The tour is offered by Blavals Adventure Ltd
     
    The operator reserves the right to adjust the rates advertised here.
     
    Any requested changes to the tour may result in a change to the advertised rates.
     
    The exact order, contents, and rates of the tour are subject to availability.
     
    If an accommodation is fully booked, the Operator will suggest a comparable alternative.
     
     

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