The Genteel Mt Kipipiri

The Genteel Mt Kipipiri

Hiking in Kenya, scratch that, hiking in Africa is an adventurous experience. Every single time you trek on one of the numerous trails, you will be treated to an activity filled itinerary with everything from views to history lessons to little bits of information about plants to nibble on among other treats. Mountain climbing does not sound like an easy thing but Mt Kipipiri is one of the lesser challenging hiking trails in Kenya.

Key Attractions

• As far as hiking trails in Kenya up mountains, this is a pretty good place to start. It is easy enough without encouraging laziness. It is close enough to Nairobi without discouraging hikers but also far enough for there to be a difference in everything from vegetation to the landscape. 
• The trek up the mountain involves a walk through a rain forest. The Aberdares is rife with clusters of such. 
• The trail then transforms into a field of brightly colored flowers and greenery all flamboyant and vibrant as it spreads across the field. 
• The trail up to the peak of Mt Kipipiri is undisturbed by urbanization and human activity, this means that it will feel like you are walking in the wild. Interacting with nature in an uncontrolled environment. 
• The gentle climb comes with stories of pre-independence Kenya. You will learn about Happy Valley and people who settled on the foot of the mountain. 
• Arriving at the top comes with beautiful views of the lands below. Some sections colored with human activity and others left virgin. At 3349 m above sea level, you will have a clear view of Lake Olboloosat and Lake Naivasha further into the distance.

Challenge Level

Mountainous hiking trails in Kenya are rarely ever easy but Mt Kipipiri is moderately challenging and ideal for intermediate hikers. The climb will be kind to your muscles. At the top, you will find your license to go on more challenging mountain hiking trails in Kenya.

Logistics

The central meeting point is on the benches near Bata Hilton Nairobi CBD. From there, we head out to take public transport to Ndunyu Njeru town. The journey to the starting point is about three and a half hours long.

 The trail is also self-drive friendly in case you don’t want to take public transport.

What do you need for the trail?

1. Waterproof hiking shoes
2. Hiking Backpack
3. Leg gaiters
4. Hiking pants
5. 3L water (bring a reusable water bottle or a hydration pack)
6. T-shirt (long sleeve polyester or/and thermal T-shirt)
7. Fleece Jacket and a shell jacket (or a poncho for the Shell)
8. Gloves (warm and waterproof)
9. Hiking buff or scarf
10. Sunglasses, sunscreen, sun protection
11. Hat; Marvin, fleece hat, a wide-brimmed hat, etc.
12. Polyester socks (+ an extra pair or two in your backpack)
13. Trekking pole
14. Snacks (sandwich, trail mix (nuts), fruit salad, energy drink, warm beverage, biscuits, etc.)
15. Personal items (ID, pocket money, hand sanitizer, facemask, phone, camera, Lighter, Pocket Knife, First aid Kit)
16. Headlamp
17. Change of clothes for after the hike in case you get wet or muddy.

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. Mt Kipipiri is NOT child friendly.

Now that you know about Mt Kipipiri, we hope to see you on the trails!

Similar trails

For lovers of beginner friendly mountain climbing, similar trails to Mt Kipipiri are: 

Mt Longonot and Table Mountain