ELEPHANT HILLS

Elephant Hill is located on the southern end of the Aberdare Ranges,about 90km of Nairobi,the elephant hill is an ideal location for a day hike safari especially if you are preparing for the more challenging Mount Kenya or Mount Kilimanjaro climbs.The taper, symmetrical and steep scarp on the south tag-end of Aberdare Range spectacularly named the Elephant Hill, both for its shape and for the abounding elephant herds in these forests, is proper hiking country. Widely considered a precursor hike to climbing Mount Kenya, Elephant Hill, classified as moderate to difficult, is for all the difficulties, full of heartwarming sights in conformation to the epic beauty of the elephant. Hiking here earn you credits in the hiking circles.

Situated along the boundary of Muranga and Nyandarua counties, it is visible for miles out from both these regions. Although it can be hiked from either direction, east and west, the latter, in Nyadarua County, is the traditional launch. Along the trail, Sasumua and Ndakaini Dams, Mount Kipipiri, Honi, Wanjohi and Rift Valley Valleys are sighted. Geologically, Elephant Hill is a part of Aberdare Simbara: A series of hills that form the mountainous part of the Aberdares. The Simbara is uninhabited, with unnamed streams, grassy slopes, deep valleys, bogs, and dykes.

As we now know, hiking Elephant Hill requires both mental and physical fitness. It is an 18 km out-and-back trail from near Njabini that takes an average of 8 hours to complete. Many a sad hiker have regretted not adequately planning for the hike especially on the second push up the rump of Elephant Hill. This has tested the resolve of many, who, taking a chance on the ever impeding cloud, discovered it was really not much fun. Stories of the wardens high consternation over an down pour that appeared hours away, only to drench hikers in minutes, are not rare.

It always rains here and a hike should be planned in good weather – that is not in April, May and October. Obvious perhaps is to take snacks and water, and wear sturdy shoes. It takes on average 8 hours (round-trip) to hike Elephant Hill. The trail starts at Njabini Forest Station, near Njabini town. Generally speaking, the fees for engaging a ranger are USD 25 for local residents, and USD 40 for non locals.