Hiking in Kenya and Tanzania

Hiking the tropical mountains of Kenya and Tanzania is the journey to the peak of the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro. Firstly, the mountain is the world’s tallest free-standing volcano that is snow-capped. On the other hand, hiking in Kenya to the snow-capped Mt. Kenya is the second highest peak in Africa standing along the Equator.

Also, day hiking to Mount Longonot in Kenya is a top activity for hikers. Secondly, Mount Kenya is Africa’s second-highest mountain with a height of over 5,000 meters. It is still in the shadow of the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro, across the border in Tanzania.

What Mount Kenya lacks in height therefore, beauty makes up for it. Snow-capped peaks, glacial valleys, and varied vegetation makes Mount Kenya a popular trekking destination. Thus, one of the many highlights is its unique terrain with mountains towering in the background.

Hiking in Kenya is a popular activity for the fit and those looking for a walking experience. For example, several hiking trails are varying from grueling mountain hikes to the easy ‘walk in the park’ nature trails. In Nairobi, there are several hiking areas within the capital. Many other trails are further away from the bustling city. Wherever the walking and trekking trail has taken you, the spectacular scenery makes it worth every effort.

Below are some of the most popular hiking areas in Kenya and Tanzania:

Mt. Longonot Hiking

The mountain is located just an hour’s drive away from Nairobi. Mount Longonot is a perfect day trip hike out of Nairobi going to the Great Rift Valley. Mt. Longonot had its last eruption in the 1800’s. So, it is now a dormant volcano. It is tops of the very best hiking areas in Kenya. Thus, forms a better part of acclimatization training for Mt Kenya hiking. The hiker’s trail ascends gradually beyond the forested area.

The climb goes all the way to the top at 2276 m (7500 ft) above sea level. This entire hike journey to and from the summit takes approximately 4 hours. If you intend to go around the crater rim at the summit, there is an additional 2 hours for doing this.

Mt. Kenya Hiking

Hikers should spare about 5 days to climb Mount Kenya or 6–8 hours for a day hike to Met Station at 3050 m (10000 ft). The day hike starts from Naro Moru Gate of Mt. Kenya National Park going through the deep forest and bamboo zone. Approximately 2 hours into this impressive hike, you are likely to encounter buffaloes, elephants, and the colobus monkeys.

If you have more time, hikers opt for a trek to reach the alpine zone. On the other hand, it is indeed worth the additional trekking thus rewarding trekkers with some of the best panoramas. This part of the mountain is covered with distinctive vegetation including giant heather, Senecio, lobelia, tussock grass, etc.

Hiking Mount Kenya is possible to Lenana Peak with the Chogoria route being the most preferred. Certainly, due to its scenic beauty. Get to see tarns on the mountain including Lake Michaelson, Lake Ellis, Lake Alice, Hauseburg tarn, and many other lakes on Mount Kenya.

Kilimanjaro Hiking

Go on trekking on Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s top peak. With its 5895 meters, Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa. Besides, the fourth highest of the world’s “Seven Summits”. The mountain is located in Tanzania near the border with Kenya.

At least 15,000 people attempt to climb Kilimanjaro each year. It is possible to trek to the top of Kilimanjaro without ropes or technical climbing skills. An ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro is possible for almost anyone who is physically fit and comes well prepared. Meanwhile, one should be able to run a half-hour or more not to have trouble breathing. Similarly, be used to taking long walks without difficulty.

Kilimanjaro has three main mountain peaks, namely Kibo, Shira, and Mawenzi. Kibo and Mawenzi are separated by a wide plain called The Saddle and the highest point at Kibo are Uhuru Peak. Summit is 5,896 meters and the ultimate goal for most of the trekkers on the mountain.

Sunrise as seen from “Africa’s roof” is a fantastic experience completely unparalleled. Hans Meyer Point (5,149 m) is the highest place on Mawenzi, but can not be reached by ordinary hikers and is rarely visited by mountaineers.

The part of the mountain, which is over 2,700 meters, is classified as Kilimanjaro National Park. It is not allowed to travel as an individual trekker without a registered guide. Africa’s highest mountain is also protected as UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are several routes to the top of “Africa’s roof” at Uhuru Peak.

Hell’s Gate Hiking

Hell’s Gate National Park is one of the best hiking landscapes in Kenya. The impressive Great Rift Valley cliff forms the exterior of this park. It attracts both novice and seasoned rock climbers alike. Ol Njorowa Gorge located in the park meanders a staggering distance of 24km (15 mi).

Forming one of the striking hiking trails. The stretch is filled with hot springs that are the source of water supply to a small stream on the floor of the gorge. This Hell’s Gate trek can take somewhere between 3-6 hours. Here, you can also take a breathtaking trekking or cycling tour alongside wildlife like giraffes, zebra, antelopes.

Some of the trekking and hiking tours in East Africa include: