01
Facing Mt. Kenya
Right on the southern slopes of Mt Kenya lies Kathandeini Forest. It is a 21km trail from the Kathandeini Forest gate advancing northwards into the forest. The forest is indigenous and forms a circuit of forest reserves surrounding the famous Mt. Kenya. You will occasionally meet elephant trails and dung, clearly indicating the hike’s nature. For a day’s hike, Kathandeini Forest and Waterfall Chase is extreme. It lies 137km from Nairobi CBD through Makutano-Kiamutugu road. The area welcomes people who want to experience the Mt. Kenya phenomenon, and the Kathandeini Forest and Waterfall Chase provide the perfect dress rehearsal. Come along, enjoy participation and brace for a lifetime hiking experience.
02
7 hrs. of Extreme Sport
The journey from Nairobi to Kamwana town can go through Kianyaga or Mbiri. You pass through agricultural farms, thanks to the favourable climate. The hilly countryside clearly indicates a nice trail ahead, and once you reach the Kathandeini Forest gate, you know the trek is up until the forested summit. Typical of the second-highest mountain in Africa, the Kathandeini Forest is a rainforest with small tracks and wet and muddy terrain. Here you see several species of birds and various trees as you delve deep into the forest. The trail passes through Kamweti Camp, which is one of the routes as you go up the mountain.
You will occasionally see elephant dung and footprints on the trail. However, wild animals do not often come out during the day, and if they do, they keep off human trails. As a protected natural reserve, you will always be in the company of a Kenya Forest Service guard. You take a detour from the climbing and head towards the Waterfall Chase along the Kathiba River. It provides a beautiful backdrop for a picture or nature hail. Unfortunately, the highest altitude gain in this hike cannot be estimated as it is part of the Mt. Kenya ecosystem. The highest one can go is 5,199m, which is the highest point on Mt Kenya.
The Weather
Geographically, Mt Kenya is cold throughout the year, making it the coldest place in Kenya. Ensure you carry at least 2 pairs of warm clothes, just in case the rains start amidst the hike. Also, bring along gumboots or proper hiking books to weather the harsh terrain as you go up.
What to Carry Along
- Foot ware – hiking boots or gum boots are the best for the mud and slipperiness. The cold and wet conditions keep the trail wet.
- Clothes – coldest is guaranteed throughout the year. Carry a raincoat and enough warm clothes.
- Hiking supplies – you need energy and stamina throughout the hike. Carry enough snacks, sunglasses, enough water (over 3 litres), sunscreen, energy bars and a baseball cap. The steady altitude gain requires you to have some painkillers for the headaches.
- Fitness – hiking up the mountain is tough. Do a prior warm-up and some mock mountain climbing in preparation.
Our Milestones
We are passionate about discovering trails not just in Kenya, but also in other breathtaking locations. Our goal is to conquer mountains, marvel at waterfalls, delve into forests, and immerse ourselves in thrilling adventures.