Elephant Hill Day Hike

Elephant Hill lies at the southern end of the Aberdare ranges. The trail here is one of the toughest, but also one of the most rewarding. The trail starts at the Njabini forest gate and takes you through a planted forest up to a starting point that lies about 3km from the gate. From there you proceed through a gentle climb on a wholly paved path up to Bamboo gate. From here it’s a steep ascent through a dense bamboo forest whose canopy makes it impossible to see beyond a few hundred metres in all directions.

The end of the bamboo zone brings you up to Desperado point, named so because many hikers give up at this point. From here you enjoy scenic views of the surrounding areas which include Mt Longonot from far and Sasumua dam.

From there awaits a most difficult climb up to the tail. Here, altitude sickness may start to kick in slowly and you have to maintain a slow pace. From the tail, it’s a brisk walk and small climb up to the summit. If you’re looking to challenge your endurance or you are preparing to climb a high mountain, this is the perfect prep hike. 

Approximate distance: 18km

Approximate time: 7-9hrs

Difficulty: Hard

What to wear and carry

·         Fleece marvin/hat or a baseball cap*

·         Balaclava or scarf

·         Warm hiking clothes (polyester t-shirt, hiking pants, fleece jacket)*

·         Raincoat/poncho*

·         Rain pants

·         Comfortable waterproof hiking boots (should be one size bigger than your normal shoe size)*

·         Waterproof gloves with fleece

In your backpack:

·         Snacks such as biscuits, nuts, fruits, crisps etc*

·         At least 3 litres of water (use a water bladder or a reusable bottle). Disposable plastic bottles are not allowed inside parks.*

·         Valid identification document.*

·         A set of clothes to change into after the hike

·         Sunglasses and sunscreen

·         Hiking pole

NB: Items marked * are highly recommended 

Charges: 

Citizens/residents- Kes.2950

Non-residents- $85

What is included

·         Transport to the trail and back.

·         Park entry charges for citizens and residents

·         Professional, knowledgeable and friendly guides

·         Glucose and fruits

N/B: Our package excludes anything else not mentioned above.

Booking Elephant Hill Hike

Book by paying at least Kes.1200 to M-Pesa buy goods till number 9754473 and clear the balance before departure.

Itinerary

Meeting point: Opposite outside International House Kencom (Nairobi CBD)

4.30 am: Boarding opens

4.45 am: Departure for Njabini Forest Station gate

8.00 am: Arrival at Njabini Forest Station gate

5.00 pm: Departure for Nairobi