Adrenaline Pumped Ol-Oroka Ranges Hiking Trail.
Your reward will be the Ol-Oroka ranges and picture perfect views of Mt. Olorgesailie.
The Ol Oroka ranges standing at 2048m above sea level at its highest (Olesekut summit), is one of two mountains flanking the little town of Oltepesi, also known by the locals as Tinga, sitting on the floor of the Great Rift Valley at 1000m above sea level.
This is a challenging hiking trail whose total distance is 18km.
What is so special about this trail?
- Panoramic view– To get to the summit of the ranges, you will be required to navigate through the steep, rocky and acacia covered shrubland.
- Archaeological findings at Olorgesailie- Olorgesailie is noted for the large number of Acheulean hand axes discovered there that are associated with animal butchering. According to the National Museums of Kenya, the finds are internationally significant for archaeology, paleontology, and geology.
Challenge Level
This is a challenging hiking trail whose total distance is about 18 km and likely to take approximately 10 hours. Those taking up this challenge should be willing to hike throughout the entire trail.
The trails on this adrenaline pumped Ol-Oroka Ranges Hiking Trail are steep and may be slippery when muddy. Therefore, good hiking boots with a firm grip are definitely recommended. Be careful at such points while ascending and descending. Prickly plants are also part of the experience.
Logistics
For group travel via public service vehicles, the meet-up is at the benches near Bata shop Hilton (opposite Kencom) Nairobi CBD. The guide will be at the meet-up point.
Getting to the starting point takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. The trailhead is at Oltepesi.
The estimated fare cost is approximately KShs. 700 and a hiking fee of 250.
What do you need for the trail?
- Good hiking boots
- Trekking pole
- Backpack
- Snacks such as nuts, granola bars, fruits, fresh juice,
- 3L water (bring a reusable water bottle or a hydration pack)
- Rain Gear/ waterproof jackets
- Long-sleeved shirts and pants for the thick forest vegetation and warm layered clothing for the cold seasons.
Here’s a list of resources for hiking gear you can check out.
Hiking Gear Vendors – Lets Drift
Can you bring your kids with you?
No. Ol-Oroka hiking trail is NOT child friendly. The long and steep trails may be very challenging for children.
Similar Trails
For challenging and adventurous trails, similar trails are William Hill, Ole saiyeti and Kipeto.
See you there adventure lovers!
