Oldoinyo Lesatima Dragon's Teeth Hike
It's quite possibly the most scenic hike in Kenya!
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Quite possibly the most scenic hike in Kenya
Rising to an altitude of 4,001m above sea level, Oldoinyo Lesatima is the highest of the Aberdares peaks and the third-highest mountain in Kenya. It is located on the Northern side of the Aberdare range and can be accessed via two points: Mweiga (Wandare Trail) and Rhino and Shamata Gates (Mt Satima Dragon’s Teeth Hike). We set out on the Dragon’s Teeth trail via the Rhino Gate, hoping to conquer ourselves on Mt. Satima Peak.
The gentle 8km trail will take us through a hiker’s paradise, trekking through fields of lush alpine vegetation, spotting a few wild animals, and walking past countless rows of magnificent craggy moraines, dubbed “Dragon’s Teeth”. The Dragon’s Teeth trail delivers some of the most breathtaking views of all hiking trails in Kenya.
Our hike starts at Twin Rocks, following a narrow path through the northern moorlands, dotted with short shrubs, to reach the Dragon's Teeth rock formation, located halfway along the trail. Although there are hardly any noticeable inclines, the moorland walk takes a dance of hop, dip, and fall, as you wade through countless bogs—how exciting! The final trek past Dragon's Teeth to the peak takes the rhythm of a trudge, as your body battles the altitude effects.
Things to Keep in Mind
- This is a high-altitude hike, therefore, come prepared to take it very slow from start to finish so you have an enjoyable experience. Stop ascent if you feel unwell.
- The hike is a crucial final altitude acclimatization opportunity for participants in the Beginner to Mt. Kenya program, who undertake their Mount Kenya climb a few days later.
- The weather in the high altitudes changes fast. Please remember to pack rain clothes and a warm jacket.
- The boggy sections can be challenging to maneuver during wet weather; therefore, waterproof boots and a change of shoes for after the hike are crucial for this hike.
Oldoinyo Lesatima Satima Dragon’s Teeth Hike Distance & Stats
Distance: 16km
Maximum Elevation: 4,001m
Maximum Elevation Gain: 800m
Duration: 6-8 hours
Trail Grading: Gentle inclines throughout; very wet, marshy moorland trails.
Difficulty: Difficult
Beginner-friendly: No
Child-friendly: Fit hikers 12yo and above
Oldoinyo Lesatima Dragon’s Teeth Hike Itinerary
4:15 a.m Meet up on Simba Street, off City Hall Way. Boarding opens.
4:30 a.m Departure for Aberdare National Park.
09:00 a.m Arrival at Aberdare National Park Rhino Gate for registration
9:15 a.m Drive to the starting point at Twin Rocks
10:15 a.m Hike Starts
02:30 p.m Mandatory turn-back and descent to avoid encounters with wild animals after dusk
EST 06:30 p.m Departure for Nairobi
Charges
Ticket | By Bus | Self-Drive |
Kenyan & EAC Citizens | KES 5,600 | KES 3,700 |
Foreign Kenyan Residents | KES 5,900 | KES 4,000 |
Non-Resident Foreigners | KES 14,250 | NA |
* Non-Resident African Citizen: $30 off the non-resident rate
Mpesa Till 989985
Trip Includes & Cancellation Policy
Included in your ticket
The Outdoorer Promise:
- 7:1 hiker to guide ratio on day hikes and 4:1 hiker to guide ratio on expeditions.
- Additional guidance and support from Outdoorer Champions.
- At least one skilled paramedic (up to 5 depending on the group size).
- A thorough emergency action plan for any emergencies that may arise.
- Other ticket-includes as detailed below.
Day Hike-Includes:
- Transport from Nairobi and back
- Park fees & charges
- Armed ranger fees where applicable
- Guide services
- Paramedic services
- A liter of water, glucose, and fruits
- 5% discount on gear purchases
What to Wear
- Quick-drying tshirt
- Quick-drying pants
- Fleece jacket
- Sun hat or cap
- Well-treaded hiking shoes
What to Carry
- 3L water and suitable snacks
- Rain jacket
- Rain pants
- Trekking pole
- Identification documents
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!