We set out on a journey to get a sneak peek of the most scenic route on Mt. Kenya and to taste the magic of Mount Kenya. Join us for a gentle hike to magnificent Lake Ellis and the breathtaking Nithi Falls on the Mount Kenya Chogoria route.

We begin our hike at the Chogoria gate and hike through the beautiful Hargenia forest, past a fisheries station. As we approach Road Head camp, we will take a right onto the road toward Lake Ellis. Prepare to be enchanted by the glittering blue-green reflections of the afternoon sun on Lake Ellis against the Hinde Valley’s beautiful backdrop. Feel free to bring your best dress and take killer shots by the lakeside!

If you are up for some more magic, take a slightly more intense challenge and walk with us up a gentle slope and down to the magnificent Nithi Falls. This adds some 4 km to your hike, but the reward is well worth the hassle.

Lake Ellis Hike Distance And Stats

Distance

• Lake Ellis only: 15km
• Lake Ellis & Nithi Fall: 19km

Maximum Elevation: 3,455m

Maximum Elevation Gain: 505m

Duration: 6-8 hours

Trail Grading: Fairly level walk on a well paved road to Lake Ellis; steep, descent to Nithi Falls

Difficulty Rating: Moderate ​​

Beginner-friendly: Yes

Child-friendly: Yes, 7+

Lake Ellis Hike Itinerary

4:15 a.m Meet up on Simba Street, off City Hall Way. Boarding opens.

4:30 a.m Departure for Mount Kenya Chogoria Gate

10:00 Arrival at Anabas Gate

10:30 a.m Hike Starts

02:00 p.m Mandatory turn-back

5:00 p.m Departure for Nairobi

How to Prepare for the Hike

• Engage in active cardio exercises such as aerobics, walking, running, cycling, and swimming among others the week prior to the event.
• Set aside the day before the hike for resting--take a break from exercises.
• Increase your hydration at least two days to the hike.
• Purpose to get enough rest the night before the hike. 
• If on intermittent fasting or on a diet, take a break in the period one day before and after the hike. This way, you will build up your energy reserves for the arduous task ahead.
• Cut your toe nails!
• Have a generous breakfast at least 3 hours before the start of the hike. This ensures that most of the food has been digested by the time you begin the hike, giving you the much-needed energy while ensuring your stomach is not too full for comfort.
• Use the bathroom before leaving the house to reduce the need for bathroom breaks on the commute.
• Set your mind up for conquering yourself. Hiking is more about your mindset than physical preparation. Once you win the battle in your mind, everything else contributes less than 10%. You can do it!