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