Beginner to Mt Kenya in 90 Days: #Resolutions2023
‘New Year New Me’ — A Brand New You Awaits at the end of the Beginner to Mt Kenya Training Program
Everyone deserves a chance to push themselves beyond their normal limits. As part of our #Resolutions2023 campaign, we invite you to take up the challenge in our Beginner to Mt Kenya in 90 Days program. Nudge your adventure bug to bite and see yourself walk to Point Lenana at the end of the Mount Kenya training program.
In the program, we make the trek step by step towards your goals as we challenge ourselves to set new personal milestones and encourage you to do the same. The Beginner to Mt Kenya in 90 Days program is a 13-week, 7-event outdoor fitness course, specially designed to meet the needs of a beginner, and get them to Mt Kenya Point Lenana in 90 days. The Mt Kenya training course features six prep hikes with increasing difficulty, targeted toward building resilience.
Beginner to Mt Kenya Program Summary
2023 Jan-Mar Hikes Schedule
Jan 14 – Kilimambogo
Jan 28 – Kijabe Hills
Feb 11 – Mt. Longonot
Feb 25 – Elephant Hill
Mar 11 – Mackinders
Mar 25 – Dragon’s Teeth
Mar 30–April 2 – Mt. Kenya Chogoria Route
Package Cost
Citizen Ticket – Ksh 52,000/=
Resident Ticket – Ksh 52,500/=
Non-Resident Ticket – Ksh 110,000/=
Q1 2023 Citizen/Resident Payment Plan
Pay 7,000/= non-refundable deposit before January 7
Pay 15,000/= by February 5
Pay 15,000/= by March 7
Clear balance by March 16
Mpesa Buy Goods till 989985
See also:
Included in the Package
Cancellation & Refunds Policy
Right from the start, we will show you how to walk outdoors, and everything that is required for your survival and safety–from keeping yourself safe on the trails to selecting proper gear. We’ll be there with you every step of the way. This ensures that you take consistent steps towards harnessing the power of walking outside for your fitness goals, and on the 90th day, you’ll stand on top of Mt. Kenya itself!
Through adventure, I have found myself
I grew up as a reserved little girl who would not leave her comfort zone. I was shy but cheeky. I wanted life as stipulated by society—go to school, find a job, settle down, and have kids—in that order. However, life happened. I fell into depression; lost a lot of weight. The gym became my… Read more “Through adventure, I have found myself”
My true accomplishment was reaching the summit of my potential
If you told me a few years ago that I would be this outdoorsy person jumping from one mountain to another like some adrenaline junkie, we would have both laughed out loud. When I first started this journey, I was going through a phase in which I felt the need to do something extraordinary for… Read more “My true accomplishment was reaching the summit of my potential”
I did a thing; I summited the third highest peak in Kenya, Point Lenana.
I did a thing; I summited the third highest peak in Kenya, Point Lenana. At the summit, my emotions had the best of me! I cried deeply; tears of gratitude — of unlocking my mountain, my emotions, and my courage! On my last birthday, I told myself that I would start hiking to get to… Read more “I did a thing; I summited the third highest peak in Kenya, Point Lenana.”
Phase 1 Beginner to Mt Kenya Program: Introduction to Hiking
January 10 (8-9 p.m):- Virtual Session
We kick off the program with a one-hour virtual session four days before the first event. The session's goal is to get acquainted with the team and get a run-through of the program and what to expect. This will include Q&A.
January 14:- Ol Donyo Sabuk - Mt. Kilimambogo
Our maiden expedition to Mt. Kilimambogo is a moderate hiking experience meant to spark your interest in outdoor fitness life. The mountain is located along the Thika-Garissa highway, within the Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park.
Goal: Introduction to hiking
Total distance: 18km
Hiking time: 4-6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
January 15 (2-4 p.m):- Orientation Day - The Nairobi Arboretum
Goal: Orientation to hiking gear and rules
We proceed to a two-hour orientation session at The Nairobi Arboretum, where you get to be introduced to the hiking gear you will need along the way. You shall also be taken through the dos and don'ts of hiking--rules and guidelines to keep you safe, alive, and well on the trails.
January 28:- Kijabe Hills
On our second hike, we set out to discover the magic of the Kijabe Hills Hike. Our expedition starts at the AIC Kijabe Hospital, cutting through thick forest vegetation, to get to the caves and hot springs. Next, we will conquer ourselves by scaling the three Kijabe Hills. Finally, we shall descend toward the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway, to exit via Soko Mjinga.
Goal: Introduction hiking
Distance: 11km
Duration: 5-7 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
February 11:- Mt. Longonot Crater Circuit
The third hike takes us to our first mountain, Mt. Longonot. The trail starts at the mountain's base, rising steeply on a 3.1km stretch to the crater rim, then covering 7.2km around the crater. Our hike ends back at the gate, covering 13.5km in total.
Goal: Orientation to steep terrain
Total distance: 13.5km
Hiking time: 4-6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
I did it to honor my father
When I lost my brother, I got a lot of piercings. When I lost my other brother, I got a tattoo and more piercings. But when I lost my dad, I got lost. 💔 A piece of me died the day he did. I tried to find my solace in alcohol, sleeping pills, anxiety pills,… Read more “I did it to honor my father”
I returned to the big mountain with no expectations. But I won!
I returned to Mt. Kenya precisely one month since my last failed attempt. I was on a mission to deliver a clear message to my epilepsy: I was no longer afraid of it, and I was not going to let it win. These past four weeks have had me working on my pace, breathing, and… Read more “I returned to the big mountain with no expectations. But I won!”
I did it for my 50th birthday; I climbed Mt. Kenya.
So much more than that, I conquered myself, one hike at a time. When I chanced upon the #beginnertomtkenya program and signed up, I thought I was crazy. My friends thought I was crazy. I had never been active most of my life, let alone setting my feet on a hiking trail. I felt unfit, so nothing… Read more “I did it for my 50th birthday; I climbed Mt. Kenya.”
Phase 2 Mount Kenya Training: Introduction to High-Altitude Hiking
February 25:- Elephant Hill, Aberdares
Goal: Altitude acclimatization, Orientation to steep terrain
Total distance: 19km
Hiking time: 7-10 hours
March 11:- Mt. Kenya Kionjo - The Mackinders Quest
Slightly under a month to achieving our end goal on the Beginner to Mt Kenya training program, we will go on a unique mission to set our eyes on the prize. Our route choice will be the Naromoru route, as the trail is short, making it possible to trek all the way to the Mackinders camp (4,300m ASL) on a day trip, where we will enjoy glorious views of the peaks--if the weather permits.
The Mackinders hike is a crucial event in the Mount Kenya training program. Here, we get to experience altitude sickness symptoms to enable us to identify and report the symptoms long before they become severe at the Main Mt. Kenya climb.
Goal: Altitude acclimatization, orientation to altitude sickness
Total distance: 20km
Hiking time: 7-9 hours
Mt. Kenya-Ready: Altitude Acclimatization
March 25:- Mt. Satima Dragon's Teeth Trail
Rising to an altitude of 4,001m (13,126ft) above sea level, Ol Donyo Lesatima is the highest of the Aberdares peaks and the third-highest peak in Kenya. On our final preparatory hike, we will set out on the reasonably gentle, magnificent Dragon's Teeth trail, hoping to conquer ourselves on Satima Peak. We save the best for last--and the relative ease ensures we are all adequately acclimatized before the Mt Kenya expedition four days later.
Goal: Altitude acclimatization
Total distance: 16km
Hiking time: 7-9 hours
Difficulty: Hard
Beginner to Mt Kenya in 90 Days Climax
March 30--April 2:- Conquering Point Lenana (4 days 3 Nights)
DAY 1: Nairobi - Chogoria Gate - Lake Ellis
We depart Nairobi for Chogoria Gate early in the morning. Upon arrival at the Mt. Kenya Chogoria Gate, we will connect with the Outdoorer Mt. Kenya team, meet and greet, and have brunch before hitting the trail.
Trek to Lake Ellis (3,455m ASL)
Distance:- 8km
Elevation gain:- 600m
After registration at the gate, we begin our trek through the beautiful Hargenia forest, past a fisheries station. As we approach Road Head camp, we will take a detour on the right toward Lake Ellis. Prepare to be enchanted by the glittering blue-green reflections of the late afternoon sun on Lake Ellis against the Hinde Valley’s beautiful backdrop.
Day 2:- Journey to Camp Mintos (4,200m ASL)
Day 3:- Conquering ourselves
Day 4: Exit and Departure for Nairobi
When I set out to scale Lenana Peak, nobody believed I could make it
I have always wanted to push myself beyond my physique. When I set out to scale Lenana Peak, nobody believed I could make it — myself included; but what is ambition if it doesn’t scare you? I have been pushed out of my comfort zone and set out a clear plan for fitness, and had… Read more “When I set out to scale Lenana Peak, nobody believed I could make it”
I started my journey with nothing short of the hope that I will follow through and be strong
I hesitated to share my story because every time I thought of writing it, I got emotional. I am in awe of where I started and, more so, where I am going. I started my journey on a board: no money, no energy — just a heart on fire and a desire to prove to… Read more “I started my journey with nothing short of the hope that I will follow through and be strong”
Point Lenana was the starting point; this is now a lifestyle.
I am from a seven-year lull of life — feeling lost and numb and not even knowing myself. I couldn’t even answer the question, “Who are you?” I decided to do something about it in December last year. I knew I loved walking long distances, hiking, and adventure, but where to start? On December 12,… Read more “Point Lenana was the starting point; this is now a lifestyle.”
Beginner to Mt Kenya in 90 Days Program Charges
Citizens: Ksh 52,000/=
Residents: Ksh 52,500/=
Non-Residents: Ksh 110,000/=
Package Includes
- Progressive training throughout the course of the program:
- Training materials and discussions in a WhatsApp group
- Three virtual Q&A group calls
- Two one-on-one hands-on gear sessions at the Nairobi Arboretum
- Unlimited consulting with various Outdoorer Champions
- Transport from Nairobi and back for all events
- Park fees & charges at all events
- Guide services at all events
- Paramedic services at all events
- A liter of water, glucose, and fruits at the day hikes
- Services of a professional team of guides, cooks, and porters at Mt. Kenya
- Full-board accommodation in a standard two-man tent and a standard camping mat at Mt. Kenya -- two people sharing a tent.
A private tent may be requested at an extra cost. However, we strongly discourage using a private tent for safety reasons. Altitude sickness commonly develops at night, therefore it is safer to have someone with you.
Package DOES NOT include
- Hiking gear, clothes, and other personal effects
- Sleeping bag and porter's backpack
- Mandatory AMREF evacuation cover. If you do not have it, get your cover with AMREF for Ksh 1,600/= (one-month cover) or Ksh 2,500/= (annual cover).
- Anything else not mentioned in the 'Package Includes' list
See this detailed gear guide as well.
Beginner to Mt Kenya in 90 Days Package Payment Plan
1st Installment - Pay a non-refundable booking confirmation deposit of Ksh 7,000/= (or 13.5% of the ticket cost for non-residents) before the program start date (January 7, 2023).
2nd Installment - Top up 29% of the total cost by day 30 of the program
3rd Installment - Top up 29% of the total cost by day 60 of the program
4th Installment - Clear the package balance by day 75 of the program
Mpesa Buy Goods till 989985
Other costs you might incur in the Mount Kenya training program
- Hiking gear: second-hand hiking gear - Ksh 25,000-40,000; brand new hiking gear - From Ksh 80,000/=
- Mandatory evacuation cover: Ksh 1,600/= for a one-month cover; Ksh 2,500/= for an annual cover
- Luxury accommodation: Although we strongly recommend against it, we allow you to book a private tent, subject to availability.
Beginner to Mount Kenya Training Program Cancellation and Refunds Policy
– The booking confirmation deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable to a future event or program.
– The booking and booking confirmation deposit are transferrable to a different person on or before the program start date.
– Where cancellation is requested on or before the program start date, Ksh 7,000 or 13.5% of the program cost, whichever is higher, will be retained from the sum paid up. Any excess paid will be refunded in full.
– Where cancellation is requested after the program start date, and on or before day 70 of the program, Ksh 18,000 or 35% of the program cost, whichever is higher, will be retained from the sum paid up. Any excess paid will be refunded in full.
– Where cancellation is requested after day 70 of the program, and before day 80 of the program, Ksh 29,000 or 56% of the program cost, whichever is higher, will be retained from the sum paid up. Any excess paid will be refunded in full.
– No refund will be issued when cancellation is requested on or after day 80 of the program.
– The Beginner to Mt Kenya in 90 Days Program ticket is bundled and may not be split into specific event tickets. Therefore, no-shows may not claim any amount for any event they miss.
– The Beginner to Mt Kenya in 90 Days Program subscription will be put on hold as soon as a milestone payment falls overdue.
– The Beginner to Mt Kenya in 90 Days Program ticket expires immediately a milestone payment becomes seven (7) days overdue. The ticket is deemed canceled on the expiry date, and the cancellation policy applies.
– An expired ticket may be revived by topping up the deposits paid to the total of the per-event rate for all events in the bundled ticket.
– Participation in the prep hikes is mandatory, otherwise, no adjustments will be made to the final cost.
– No refunds will be issued where participation is denied due to non-compliance with the rules and regulations, safety guidelines, and/or the failure to comply with the minimum gear requirements.
– No-shows forfeit the entire deposits paid up.
Hi Whats the difference of full package of 43000 and advanced Beginner package of 34000
Hi Joy. The full package includes six prep hikes between January and March, and the final Mt. Kenya climb over Easter weekend. This is specially crafted for a total beginner who has never undertaken any hiking activities. The advanced beginner package includes only one prep hike on March 27 and the Easter weekend climb. This is meant for active hikers who would be looking to climb Mt. Kenya over Easter weekend.
Kindly share full details does the cost take care of all the prep costs?
Hi Fred. The full details are provided in the program above. The program cost includes:
– Transport from Nairobi and back for all events.
– Guide services for all events.
– Armed ranger services where applicable
– Park fees for all events.
– Liter of water and fruits for the day hikes.
– Full-board accommodation in a tent at Mt. Kenya
– Services of a professional team of porters and cooks at Mt. Kenya.
Hello , going through the entire read am enticed to be part of this, My concern is, i am working monday to friday will your dates favour me moreso on the easter weekend? Ooh just to mention i work in Nairobi.
Hello Fridah. We’d be happy to have you on the program. We provide the dates ahead, so that participants can adjust their schedule where necessary. All the events in the program happen on Saturdays, except the Mt. Kenya climb, which runs from Thursday to Sunday.
Because our January-April 2021 program is sold out, please look out for the next program which will run from May 1, 2021 to August 1, 2021. Booking will be open on March 1, 2021 and reservation will be on a first-pay-first-reserved basis.
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