Kenya offers adventure seekers a diverse range of hiking trails, from the towering peaks of Mount Kenya to the lush forests of Aberdare and the dramatic landscapes of Hell's Gate. With varying difficulty levels and breathtaking scenic views, these trails provide thrilling experiences for both novice and seasoned hikers.
Top Hiking Trails in Kenya for Adventure Seekers
Introduction
Kenya is a country of great landscapes, famous for wildlife, steppes, and a range of mountains covered with snow. But beyond the famous game parks and safari destinations lies another hidden gem for nature lovers: How the networks of hiking trails in Kenya are extensive. With rocky terrains on the one hand, dense cover on the other, deserts in between, and foggy hills on the other, Kenya has some of the most exciting hikes than any other country.
No matter if you are an experienced climber eager to climb some of the highest mountain ranges or a simple hike who wants to explore peaceful trails, then Kenya has a place for you. Not only do these trails require a significant amount of effort, but they also provide amazing scenery–from the waterfall to a couple of vistas that go on forever. Given the fact that so many of the trails are located close to camps and other accommodations ranging from budget camps to luxury lodges, hikers do not have to worry about where to spend the night after a day of hiking. As you will see below, I have grouped these hiking trails by difficulty and by the scenic beauty of their environment as well as by their proximity to other facilities. If you are preparing for your next travel experience or just want to use some ideas, let this list lead you through the Kenyan bush.
1. Mount Kenya: Chogoria, Sirimon, and Naro Moru Routes
Overview
Mount Kenya stands at 5,199 meters (17,057 feet) making it the second tallest in Africa and doubtless the most famous trekking destination in Kenya. These features include sharp edges, extensive coverage of forests, and amazingly arranged glacial faces which are, of course, an abode for any mountain lovers and hikers. The three official approaches, the Chogoria, Sirimon, and Naro Moru, are all different in challenge and viewpoints.
Chogoria Route
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Hard
- Scenic Views: This route is known for its dramatic landscapes, including the stunning Gorges Valley, Lake Ellis, and Lake Michaelson. The combination of lush vegetation and barren high-altitude plains provides photographers with plenty of stunning shots.
- Nearby Accommodations: There are several bands (cottages) and campsites available along the route. For a more luxurious experience, Castle Forest Lodge is a popular choice.
Sirimon Route
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Scenic Views: The Sirimon route is known for its gentler terrain, making it easier for first-time trekkers. The trail passes through ancient forests and opens up to alpine meadows, eventually reaching the summit area of Point Lenana.
- Nearby Accommodations: Old Moses Camp and Shipton’s Camp are the main resting points for hikers on this route.
Naro Moru Route
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
- Scenic Views: This is the fastest route to Point Lenana but also the steepest. Known for the “Vertical Bog” section, this trail can get muddy, especially during the rainy season. However, it offers excellent views of the peaks and glaciers.
- Nearby Accommodations: Naro Moru River Lodge is a good option for those seeking comfort after the hike.
2. Hell’s Gate National Park
Overview
If you are up for hiking but this type of trail is slightly less challenging yet full of spectacular views and Australian iconography, then Hell’s Gate National Park is for you. Hell’s Gate National Park covers an area of 392km2 and is approximately 90km from Nairobi the capital city of Kenya apart from cliffs and gorges the park has geothermal activity.
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Scenic Views:
The walking trail leads one through major rock features such as Fischer’s Tower and the Central Tower. Hell’s Gate Gorge has steep and high cliffs and in some parts has walkable hot springs, which makes it upper-end walking. You too can view other games such as zebras, giraffes, or gazelles within the park because it’s one of the few places where you can indulge in walking safaris.
Nearby Accommodations:
There are different additional facilities such as campsites in the neighboring town of Naivasha although the lodging options range from those like the Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort for the more affluent tourist. Tourist may prefer to go for cheap accommodations and if you are one of them then the Fisherman’s Camp is ideal for backpacking.
3. Mount Longonot National Park
Overview
Mount Longonot is an extinct stratovolcano that lies on the floor of the Great Rift Valley. Most of the scenic views of the countryside as well as the lake Naivasha and the Rift Valley can be viewed from it outer fringes of its crater.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Scenic Views:
This trail is not very long, around three and a half kilometers, but it ends quickly at the crater, and there are jogging trails around the edge of the volcano. The top of the hill offers expansive views of the floor of the Great Rift Valley and the close by Lake Naivasha. This circuit involves blocking around the crater and is exceptionally great as you are able to take appropriate photographical shots.
Nearby Accommodations:
It is only an hour’s drive from Nairobi, so most hikers use the park as a day-trip venue. But if you intend to spend another night, accommodation can be found in Naivasha town, which has mid-range Lodges like Great Rift Valley Lodge.
4. Ngong Hills
Overview
Within an hour’s drive from Nairobi, Ngong Hills is a unique destination for those interested in a day hike. The countless round acacia wooded hills offer picturesqueness of the vast area including Nairobi city, the Great Rift Valley, and the plains.
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Scenic Views:
While on the hills, one is able to see windmills rotating, on the right side you are able to see the City of Nairobi in the distance and to the left, the Great Rift Valley. This is not a very long hike and again the climbs many times make it into more of a workout session.
Nearby Accommodations:
As mentioned earlier, most hikers are from Nairobi because the Ngong Hills are nearby which makes it difficult for hikers to spend the night in the mountains. This is in the Karen Blixen Coffee Garden, a beautiful calm area for tourists.
5. Aberdare Ranges: Elephant Hill
Most famous for the Aberdare National Park, the Elephant Hill climbing is a relatively challenging activity to undertake, though one with a high yield. This trail is reportedly offering the locals a splendid day trail and, in particular, can be challenging for first-time hikers due to the relatively high altitude of the region and comparatively steep terrain.
Difficulty Level: Hard
Scenic Views:
The path takes you through the bamboo region, over the moorlands up to the top where a great view of the Aberdare Ranges is provided. Even with good weather, you can look at Mount Kenya right from here if you are in Nairobi.
Nearby Accommodations:
Tentative accommodation for the night can be obtained from Aberdare Country Club and The Ark Lodge. If individual arrangements are being sought for, there are quite several campsites in the park, that will not burn deep holes in one's pocket.
6. Rurimeria Hill
For those lovers of quiet and seclusion, the best trip is the Rurimeria Hill in the Aberdare Range. This one is relatively less crowded and is a steep climb physically which takes you through some of the best views of the Aberdares.
Difficulty Level: Hard
Scenic Views:
The trail passes through virgin forest and moor and provides a spectacular view of the Aberdare escarpment. The experience is quite steep but once again the seclusion and untouched landscape more than makes up for the climb.
Nearby Accommodations:
Similar to Elephant Hill, Rurimeria Hill hikers can opt to stay at the Aberdare Country Club or The Ark Lodge. For a more rustic experience, there are also campsites available.
7. Karura Forest
Overview
For those in Nairobi who would love to take a lovely walk and do not want to travel very far afield, there is the Karura forest, a beautiful forest with many tracks for walking and cycling. It is easily accessible, it boasts of having a dense high canopy, and is a home to many wild animals making it’s a resource that is cherished by Nairobi residents.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Scenic Views:
The forest, in fact, includes waterfalls, a lily pond, and even some historic caves. But it is also a very good spot for observing wildlife that is native to this area, including monkeys and numerous kinds of birds.
Nearby Accommodations:
As the forest is situated in the middle of Nairobi, there are numerous places to stay at around Karura Forest, including low-priced hostels and costly hotels, for instance, the Villa Rosa Kempinski.
8. Ol Doinyo Lengai
Overview
For the more daring, it is a real adventure, to make a crossing into Tanzania to climb Ol Doinyo Lengai. The Maasai people call it “Mountain of God” and it is an active volcano that has made it one of the most intriguing in the region.
Difficulty Level: Very Hard
Scenic Views:
On the hiking experience, the compound affords an unwavering glimpse of the surrounding Great Rift Valley, Lake Natron, and the dreadful Ngorongoro High Lands. The top allows looking down into the pending crater that is still having volcanic activities.
Nearby Accommodations:
Even though this one is in Tanzania several people from Kenya embark on the trip. Everyone who wants to attempt the climb can find accommodation and well-equipped campsites and lodges such as Lake Natron Tented Camp.
9. Loita Hills
Overview
Loita Hills is among the most culturally interesting hiking destinations in Kenyan. The Loita Maasai are the inhabitants of the hills and despite the stunning hikes, what you are exposed to here are Maasai cultural practices.
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Hard
Scenic Views:
The hills are blanketed in thick forests, and from the higher points, you can view the sweeping plains of the Maasai Mara. Along the way, hikers often encounter Maasai villages and traditional homes, making this trek a unique blend of nature and culture.
Nearby Accommodations:
Camping is the best option for this remote area, but Maasai-run eco-lodges like the Mara Bush Houses offer a comfortable stay.
10. Mount Elgon
Overview
Straddling the Kenya-Uganda border, Mount Elgon is an extinct shield volcano with a vast array of flora and fauna. The Kenyan side of the mountain offers several hiking routes that pass through dense forests, bamboo groves, and moorlands.
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Hard
Scenic Views:
Hiking Mount Elgon is a journey through diverse ecosystems. The highlight is reaching the caldera, one of the largest volcanic craters in the world, where you can view waterfalls and deep caves.
Nearby Accommodations:
Kitum Caves Lodge and Endebess Bluff Campsite are good choices for those staying overnight.
Conclusion
Kenya boasts of several hiking trails that range from spectacular for the professional hiker and fascinating for a layman who seeks adventure in natural treasures. Mountaineering up the towering summit of Mount Kenya or stumbling in the towering green trees in Aberdares, one does not lack quality views and experiences. Several trails start near various accommodations, which are available for different budgets, so you can easily make a several-day break for hiking. Well, grab your equipment put on your boots, and set course on the most remarkable trip across the best-conceived terrains in Kenya.
