Table Mountain Aberdares
A scenic, steep high-altitude challenge
A Maddening Steep Climb!
If you have ever visited the Seven Ponds trail, you are familiar with the maddening steepness it flexes. Located across the valley on the left is its twin, boasting of dramatic steepness and breathtaking views in equal measure.
The 6.2km trail starts at Mikeu, taking you through an initial gentle trek along the forest line. The trail then plunges to a river crossing. Next comes a shockingly steep, near-vertical ascent for a kilometer or so. Past here is another brief, gentle trek, another brief, steep ascent, and then onto the final gentle trek through the moorland. The trail ends at the Table Mountain peak, at an elevation of 3,792m above sea level.
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 weather in the high altitudes changes fast. Please remember to pack rain clothes and a warm jacket.
- The trail has very steep, slippery, and rocky sections. A trekking pole is useful but not mandatory. However, waterproof boots with good traction are crucial for this hike.
Aberdares Table Mountain Distance & Stats
Distance: 12.5km
Maximum Elevation: 3,792m
Maximum Elevation Gain: 1,249m
Duration: 8-10 hours
Trail Grading: Very steep inclines, river crossings
Difficulty Rating: Difficult ​​
Beginner-friendly: No
Child-friendly: Fit 12+
Aberdares Table Mountain Hike Itinerary
4:15 a.m Meet up on Simba Street, off City Hall Way. Boarding opens.
4:30 a.m Departure for Mikeu Center.
08:30 Arrival at Mikeu
09:00 a.m Hike Starts
02:00 p.m Mandatory turn-back and descent to avoid encounters with wild animals after dusk
06:30 p.m Departure for Nairobi
Charges
Ticket | By Bus | Self-Drive |
Kenyan & EAC Citizens | KES 5,150 | KES 3,250 |
Foreign Kenyan Residents | KES 5,450 | KES 3,550 |
Non-Resident Foreigners | US$ 105.00 | 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.Â
- At least one skilled paramedic (up to 5Â 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.Â
- 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!