A Short Story About Kenze Gorges Hike

What satisfies the eyes, the mind is generous enough to record for memories. The Kenze Gorges hike is an immersion into spectacular views of rock formations and a wonder of green and lively vegetation in the unexpected Ukambani region. From the scenic views of the rocks to the many pools formed by water along the Kenze Riverline, this hike is a relaxing walk in nature and serves as a perfect family getaway.

The hike starts at Mukaa and gently descends to the nearby inhabited hills, and down to the river. The terrain here is mainly bushes, loose sand, and rocky as you head down. From the river, we proceed downstream for about 2.5km, taking the views of the scenic rocks and developed pools, then continue hiking on the other side of the stream. This short walk across the ridge will then change to a descent towards the riverbed. From there, we will cross to the starting side and ascend to the starting point.

Kenze Gorges Hike Stats

Approximate Distance: 11Km

Approximate Time: 7 Hours

Difficulty: Moderate (Smooth and very child-friendly)

What to Wear During the Kenze Gorges Hike

1. Fleece Marvin/hat or a baseball cap.
2. Proper light hiking clothes (polyester t-shirt, wind jacket, hiking pants/shorts).
3. Comfortable hiking boots (should be at least one size bigger than your standard shoe size).
4. Sunscreen.

In the Kenze Gorges Hike Backpack, Have

1. At least 2 liters of water (use a water bladder or a reusable bottle). Disposable plastic bottles are not allowed.
2. Snacks such as biscuits, nuts, fruits, crisps, etc.
3. A hiking pole.
4. A raincoat/poncho.

It is Also Advisable to Have

1. A set of clothes to change into after the hike (sometimes, the good hiking gear also fails, and weather changes are unexpected).

Ticket

• East Africa Community Citizens/Kenyan Residents (EA)- Kes. 3200
• Rest of Africa Citizens (RA)- Kes. 3600
• International Visitors (IV)- Kes.4200

Definitions

• East African (EA) Citizen: A native East African country (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo) with valid identification documents or passport.
• Kenyan Resident: A person of another nationality residing in Kenya, with valid documentation from the Kenyan government.
• Rest of Africa Citizens (RA): A national of African countries other than East African countries with a valid passport.
• International Visitors (IV): Hikers other than those from EAC and the rest of African countries.

N/B: The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and Kenya Forest Service (KFS) recognize the three categories using Identity Cards (IDs) and identification documents issued by the government. Ensure you identify yourself with the card you already hold.

What the Ticket Includes

1. Transport to the trail and back.
2. Park entry/conservation/community charges.
3. Professional and friendly guides (armed rangers or local guides), ensuring at most eight people have one guide.
4. Assorted fruits to recharge.
5. Refill water. Carry a refillable bottle. Plastics are not allowed inside parks.
6. Skilled first aider within the team.
7. A trip souvenir to remember the place and its personal discoveries.

N/B: Our package excludes personal insurance, hiking gear, and anything else not mentioned above.

Booking Kenze Gorges Hike

Reserve a slot by paying at least Kes.2000 to M-Pesa Buy Goods Till number 9754473 (Hikers Arena Limited) by 1st Feb and clear the balance before departure. Bookings and payments are subject to Hikers Arena’s refund policy.

We would love to make it so flexible and bookable on the day before the hike, but we know it could ruin your experience since we may be unable to plan adequately for the hike day. Please book early.

Trip Itinerary

Meeting point: Kencom, Nairobi CBD (Opposite the city clock).

• 5.15 am: Boarding opens
• 5.30 am: Departure for Mukaa Shopping Center (The departure time is strict)
• 7.30 am: Arrival at Mukaa Shopping Center
• 8.00 pm: Hike starts
• 3.00 pm: Departure for Nairobi

N/B: The departure time back to Nairobi is subject to the day’s team and could be earlier or later than estimated.

Maintaining the Convenience for Everyone

Your ‘food’ could be the other person’s ‘poison’. Therefore;
🚫If you like music while hiking, carry earphones or headphones to listen at your volume and convenience.
🚫Smoking, alcohol, and other non-prescribed drugs are prohibited during the hike.
✅While we have a list of what is needed above, we provide an extra liter of water to refill your valves and fruits as part of the package. The fruits are clean, but you should also wash your hands and the fruits to observe hygiene. Your health is paramount.

We value you and welcome you to the Arena. See you on the trails. See you on Saturday.

Readiness Checklist

✅Wear your boot, especially if you have not for a while, and ascertain that it is still comfortable.
✅Take no vigorous or no exercises later than 2 days before the hike to reserve energy to carry you up the ascent.
✅Hydrate beyond often starting 3 days until the end of the hike.
✅Cut your toenails short for comfort in socks and the boot. When descending, you create a stronger grip, whose effect lasts on the toes. Doing this will make your experience more comfortable and memorable.
✅Ensure you stock your supplies the day before the hike, so we stop only for emergencies.
✅Empty your bowels before leaving in the morning.

After Kenze Gorges Hike

• Engage in post-hike stretching exercises to improve flexibility and prevent muscle tightness. Focus on stretching major muscle groups such as the calves, quadriceps, hamstrings, and hips. Hold each stretch for 15-30 seconds without bouncing.
• Replenish fluids lost during the hike by drinking plenty of water. Proper hydration is essential for muscle recovery and overall well-being. Consider consuming a sports drink or electrolyte-rich fluids to replenish electrolytes lost through sweat.
• Consume a balanced meal or snack within a few hours after your hike. Include protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats to aid muscle recovery and replenish energy stores. Foods like lean meats, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and nuts are good options.
• If you experience muscle soreness or inflammation, apply ice or cold therapy methods such as cold packs or ice baths to reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.
• Ensure adequate sleep supports your body’s recovery process. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Good sleep is crucial for repairing and rejuvenating your muscles.
• Allow your body sufficient time to rest and recover after a hike. Take it easy for the next couple of days and avoid overexertion. Proper rest is essential for repairing muscles and preventing injury.

Inquiries and Updates

For inquiries and updates, click here. We also recommend you join the Hikers Arena Hiking Community Whatsapp group (Click here to join) to keep up to date with our activities and upcoming events.