Here is a list of the best hiking trails in Kenya. Hiking in Kenya is popular with locals and tourists alike. Whether you are looking for a multiple-day trek to a summit, abseiling, rock climbing, or a gentle day hike, Kenya offers plenty of exciting walking trials for the outdoor enthusiast
Kenya features spectacular scenery: you could be trekking through lush emerald-green forests or hiking along a crater ridge with views over a shimmering lake, spotting colobus monkeys scampering across the path, and taking in vast valleys, baobabs, and acacia trees as the sun sets. Kenya’s trails aren’t just for hikers; they also attract birders, cyclists, and runners. Here are Kenya’s best hiking routes.
Best Hiking Trails In Kenya
1. Karura Forest
Karura Forest is an urban forest close to Nairobi City. The forest is one of the easiest walking trails in Kenya and is ideal for complete beginners. The Kenya Forest Service and the Friends of Karura Community Forest Association manage the forest. It is a large urban forest with five entrances open to the public. The main entrance is Limuru Road, directly across from the Belgian Embassy. It is also accessible via Gate C, located along Kiambu Road, directly across from the DCI headquarters.
The forest covers 564 hectares and is surrounded by an electric fence. It is a unique forest because it is filled with indigenous trees and provides a tranquil environment in which to relax and unwind in a cool climate. Karura Forest offers a 9-kilometre hiking trail from the Kiambu road and is a popular hiking forest close to the city. Many Nairobi residents, particularly on weekends, have taken to jogging in the forest. If you enjoy hiking in largely flat areas within a natural forest, the Karura hiking day trip is the best option in Nairobi. The forest is magical in its beauty and silence. The forest rangers permit jogging, hiking, dog walking, and bicycle riding in the forest. Karura hiking day trips can be done in the morning, as the actual hike takes you a maximum of 2 to 3 hours.
The Mau Mau caves, which housed fighters and supplies during Kenya’s fight for independence from Britain between 1952 and 1960, are also located in the Karura forest. Finish your visit with a drink or lunch on the terrace of the Swiss River Cafe, where wildlife sightings are common over a shake and panini.
- Length: 5 kilometers
- Duration: 1-3 hours
- Type of Trail: Loop
- Elevation Gain: Around 100 meters
2. Oloolua Nature Trail
Oloolua Nature Trail is one of the best walking trails in Kenya. It features forest paths, a waterfall, a cave, a stream, and a picnic site. The Oloolua Forest, located in the leafy suburbs of Karen, was founded by the National Museums of Kenya, which also collaborates with the Institute of Primate Research. The Mbagathi River flows through the Oloolua Forest, which is home to a diverse range of indigenous trees and shrubs. The Crown-Eagle Hide is a popular attraction that provides a bird’s-eye view of a section of the forest; here, you may see a few birds. Inside the cave, you might see different bat species and wildlife.
The waterfall is also a popular destination for wagtails, dragonflies, and damselflies looking for a quick snack. The nature trail is ideal for visitors who want to learn more about the forest’s tree species, as well as for joggers who want to run and exercise. The forest provides visitors and nature lovers with peace and tranquility, as well as fantastic picnic spots for groups. Oloolua Nature Trail is also ideal for short-term hiking and camping.
The entry fees for this trail are Ksh 600 (non-residents), Ksh 400 (residents), and Ksh 200 (citizens). Children pay half the price.
- Length: 5 kilometers
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Type of Trail: Loop
3. Mount Kenya, Naro Moru Hike
Mount Kenya is the second-highest mountain in Africa, following Mount Kilimanjaro. It is one of the most challenging mountains to summit because it is pretty steep, and the terrain can be slippery when it rains heavily. However, this does not deter people, as many have summited this mountain several times, and they still go back. If you do not have 5 days set aside to climb the mountain, then set aside 6–8 hours to hike to the Met Station at an altitude of 3,050 m (10,000 ft). The hike starts at the Naro Moru gate of Mt. Kenya National Park, through the forest and a bamboo zone. The steep climb begins at Percival’s Bridge, approximately 2 hours into the hike. Beware of elephants, buffaloes, and colobus monkeys. Some hikers choose to reach the alpine zone, a further hour’s worth of trekking, but the panorama is rewarding. This zone is covered with distinct vegetation like senecio, giant heather, lobelia, and tussock grass.
The hiking trail is classified as moderate; therefore, you would expect some areas to be challenging while others are summit tables. The higher you get, the bigger the changes in terrain. As you ascend, forests become rocky passes, which in turn become glacial pockets near the summit.
- Location: The top three routes to the mountain are Naru Moru, Chogoria, and Sirimon.
- Length: About 45 kilometers (Chogoria – Sirimon)
- Duration: 4-6 days
- Type of Trail: Out and back/Point to point
- Highest Point: 5,199 meters above sea level
- Point Lenana: 4,985 meters above sea level
- Elevation Gain: Up to 2,350 meters
4. Hell’s Gate National Park
Hell’s Gate National Park, while much smaller in size compared to other national parks in the country, has a unique landscape. Hell’s Gate National Park is one of the most iconic hiking places in the Rift Valley. The national park is situated in the southern part of Lake Naivasha, and it has numerous hiking trails that you can trek. The location is named so because of the unique rock formation and solid geothermal activity that shape the natural environment into something very unique. The expansive park surrounding this hiking location is fantastic because you can see animals and exceptional vegetation. There are red-colored rock cliffs, savanna grassland, meandering gorges, and depressions.
The cliffs in the park rise high, and there are multiple areas where you can climb and marvel at the beautiful creations. You will find professional rock climbers at Fischer’s Gate as well as Elsa Gate. There are multiple animals that you can watch, whether you are walking on foot or a bike.
5. Ngong Hills
Ngong Hills is a perfect hike for beginners and those looking for a nice trail near Nairobi. The trail is located in the Ngong Hills Forest, managed by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS). It is approximately 21 kilometres from Nairobi’s CBD, making it one of the best weekend hiking destinations. It is a fantastic, fun-filled hiking trail that can be explored by both beginners and advanced hikers. Hiking on the Ngong Hills is much more enjoyable because you get to walk on a hill. The Ngong Hills have seven distinct knuckles that can be hiked up and down as well as through the forest. The Ngong Hills are the Great Rift Valley’s eastern escarpment, closest to Nairobi. The Great Rift Valley comes closest to Nairobi at this point. The Ngong Hills are popular among local and visiting hikers who want to spend the day climbing and hiking. You should consider the company of a Kenya Forest Service ranger. The rangers offer guiding services to hikers for a fee of Ksh 2,000.
The Ngong Hills stretch for 11.5 kilometres and take about 3-5 hours to walk from one end to the other, depending on your speed and number of breaks. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of drinking water. Take some snacks if possible. Because there are no local vendors within the hills. You will find Kenyan runners training in these hills. Once you are on top of the hills, and if you have watched the movie ‘Out of Africa’, you will realize that this is a familiar scene as some parts of the movie were shot here.
- Length: 12 kilometers (one way)
- Duration: 3–5 hours (point to point)
- Type of Trail: Out and back/Point to point
- Highest Point: 2,460 meters above sea level
- Elevation Gain: Around 930 meters
6. Nairobi Arboretum
Nairobi Arboretum is just 3km from Nairobi’s city centre, and short, flat paths make it an ideal spot for an accessible walk. Inside the 74-acre arboretum are more than 350 exotic and indigenous trees and more than 100 bird species. You’re pretty much guaranteed to see Vervet and Sykes’ monkeys. The walkways are paved, the route has plenty of seating, and the facilities, including public toilets, are decent. The Arboretum Park also provides an extremely popular venue for a variety of events, such as weddings, concerts, team building, and corporate parties, while lovebirds can enjoy spending romantic moments in its secluded spots.
7. Mount Longonot
Due to its proximity to Nairobi, Mount Longonot is the most famous of the day hikes around Kenya. At an elevation of 2,780 metres, this extinct giant is located southeast of Lake Naivasha in the Great Rift Valley. Its name, Longonot, derives from the Maasai word that translates to steep ridges. One reason that makes Mount Longonot one of the most popular hiking trails is that it offers a variety of terrain, including forests, grasslands, and rocky outcrops. The trail is well-marked, and there are several rest stops along the way where you can take a break and enjoy the scenery. The hike typically takes about 4-6 hours to complete, depending on your fitness level and how long you spend at the summit.
Another reason that Mount Longonot is a good hiking trail is that it is home to a wide range of wildlife, including buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and baboons. You may spot some of these animals as you make your way up the mountain. The mountain can be climbed in a day, and the hike is moderately challenging but perfectly achievable for those with moderate fitness.
- Length: 13.5 kilometers/8.4 miles
- Duration: 4-6 hours
- Type of Trail: Out and back
- Highest Point: 2,780 meters above sea level
- Elevation Gain: About 900 meters
8. Elephant Hill, Aberdare Ranges
The Elephant Hill hiking trail is located about 90 km north of Nairobi in Aberdare National Park and is accessed through the Njabini gate. It is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts due to the challenges it offers, the beautiful scenery, and the diverse vegetation zones in that section of the park. The hike to the top of Elephant Hill and down is moderate to difficult and takes about 6–8 hours to complete, depending on your pace, fitness, and weather. The trail offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. From the gate, the trail takes you through a planted forest, a bamboo zone, and finally the alpine zone near the summit.
- Location: Njabini Gate, Aberdares National Park.
- Length: About 19 kilometers
- Duration: 8–10 hours
- Type of Trail: Out and back
- Highest Point: 3,657 meters above sea level
- Elevation Gain: About 1,157 meters
9. Mount Kilimambogo
Mt. Kilimambogo, also known as “the mountain of buffaloes,” is also among the best hiking trails in Kenya. It is located within the Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park. It sits in Machakos county, just across the border from Kiambu county, and stands at an altitude of 2145m. The mountain offers stunning views along the hiking trail. There is both a paved road and a footpath leading to the summit, with the footpath being steeper and more challenging. Along the trail, hikers can visit Lord MacMillan’s burial site and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding farms and parks from various viewpoints. The trail is approximately 18 km long and is suitable for most people, including children over 5 years of age.
- Length: 12 kilometers
- Duration: 4-6 hours
- Type of Trail: Out and back
- Highest Point: 2,145 meters above sea level
- Elevation Gain: 720 meters
10. Mount Ololokwe
This is a popular hiking destination located in the northeastern parts of the country in Samburu country. The flat-topped mountain is exquisite as it overlooks the Samburu plains. It is a few distances from Archer’s post where the British army train. If you plan to visit this location, it is about 350 kilometres off the Kenyan capital Nairobi. The hiking trail is 2000 meters above sea level, and it is exceptional because it is situated in an arid area, and you will find that as you head up the mountain. You will encounter rugged paths created by the biggest mammal, the elephants, as they search for water and food. It will take you about 3 hours to complete the hike. The mountaintop views are unique, and you should take them to enjoy them and take pictures as well.
11. Nairobi Safari Walk, Nairobi National Park
The Nairobi Safari Walk is a nature trail set inside Nairobi National Park. It takes approximately 2 hours to complete the walk. A winding boardwalk covers three major habitats. The first is a wetland area where crocodiles idle, and the second is a savanna grassland where you can spot wildlife including an albino zebra, leopards, and the rare bongo. The third habitat is a woodland area exhibiting indigenous plants, labeled with their traditional uses.
Children in particular love the chance to get closer to the animals than they’re likely to be able to do in a national park and this is the best place to take them. You can stroll around for however long you like, taking your time to observe the wildlife and birdlife and take in the beautiful scenery from the boardwalk. You are also allowed to snap photos, so make sure you have a good camera with you or that your phone is fully charged.
12. Mount Elgon
Mount Elgon is a border mountain, and it is situated in western Kenya along the Ugandan border, it is a hotspot for beautiful hiking. The raw nature, hot springs, and two deep gorges called Suam and Simu; are why you travel to the Kenyan border with Uganda. This unknown gem is often forgotten next to the famous Mt. Kenya, This volcanic mountain looms out of nowhere with its striking five peaks. Mt. Elgon is estimated as the oldest inactive volcano in all of East Africa. The hiking possibilities are endless: from short hikes of a day or overnight to multi-day hikes or a hike to the peak.
Also, there are geothermal springs, dense forests, and caves, and you will find this place heartwarming and worth your visit. It is important to note that this mountain is quite cold as it is located on the equator line. There are frequent rains, and you should prepare adequately if you are planning to summit this mountain. The terrain is moderate, and you can explore the region during the dry period to avoid the heavy rains that could deter your progress.
13. Lake Elementaita
Lake Elementaita is a lake located in the Rift Valley, and it is among the naturally formed lakes along the Rift Valley. The area surrounding this region will take your breath away as you will see natural fauna and flora. It is a natural state. Some sceneries include acacia trees, warthogs, antelopes, deer, and zebras, among other animals. You can hike around the lake as it offers a fantastic way to explore the area and know you are there when you see flamingos. If you are into birdwatching, then this is the right destination for you.
There are hot springs on the northern side of the lake, and you can enjoy warm water as you relax before continuing with your hike. Besides, you can choose the longer route to Mlima ugali, and this is where you can see the plains and valleys below, it is a fantastic view as you will enjoy the breeze and see the natural mountain formation.
14. Menengai Crater and Caves
Menengai Crater is featured as one of the most fantastic hiking trails in Kenya because of the nature of the environment and the surrounding nature. The crate is situated a few kilometres from Nakuru town. This is the largest volcano, caldera, and it has massive crater walls and hills that form a circular ring which is about 600 meters from the ground, and the highest point sits at 2278 meters above sea level. It will take you around seven hours to complete the hike. The bushy hiking trail makes the entire journey exciting, and once you reach the summit, you will have a fantastic look at Lake Nakuru. It is a volcanic lake, and it is home to pretty flamingoes. You are not limited, the crater can be hiked in a day and is of moderate difficulty due to some of its steeper edges.
- Location: Menengai Crater viewpoint near Nakuru city.
- Length: About 8 kilometers
- Duration: 4-6 hours
- Type of Trail: Loop/Point to point
- Highest Point: 2,278 meters above sea level
- Elevation Gain: About 500 meters
15. Chyulu Hills
These underrated and unexplored hills are located between Amboseli National Park and Tsavo West National Park. They cover a distance of 150 km, with the highest point standing at 2,188 m above sea level. Unbeknown to many, Chyulu Hills has one of the longest lava tubes in the world. The trek covers a distance of 15 km through rugged terrain filled with wildlife and beautiful fauna, particularly after the rainy season. It takes about 3–4 hours to the mouth of the caves. 35 km from the Chyulu Hill National Park headquarters is the other hiking trail called Satellite, which was used as a training base by the US Army. The peak stands at 1,900 m above sea level. There are no trails, hikers follow wildlife tracks through these gentle hills. It is advisable to go with a park ranger.
16. Mount Satima (The Dragon’s Teeth), Aberdares
The hike is rated hard but takes you to the most beautiful parts of the Aberdares Although there are three gates to this trail, Shamata Gate is the best. It follows a murram road between a thick indigenous forest and the Twin Rocks, the common starting point. The trail takes you along a narrow marshy path leading to the famous Dragon’s Teeth (sharp volcanic rocks). After a short rest, you’ll follow the trail to the unexpected summit, which opens to beautiful landscapes and enchanting scenery. Mount Satima can get cold, and some parts of this trail are marshy. So, wear warm clothes, supportive hiking boots and leg gaiters, and carry a raincoat.
- Location: Shamata Gate, Aberdare National Park.
- Length: About 17 kilometers/10.6 miles
- Duration: 6–8 hours
- Type of Trail: Out and back
- Highest Point: 4,001 meters above sea level
- Elevation Gain: 600 meters
17. Rurimeria Trail, Aberdares
The trail is physically and mentally exhausting, making it the “Mother of Day Hikes in Kenya.” If you’re looking for challenging walking trails in Kenya, go to the Aberdares and explore this “beautiful beast.” Whilst it’s certainly not easy, it’s one of the most picturesque trails in Kenya. The trail starts with an easy 4 km leisurely walk. It then becomes steep almost all the way, taking you past three false summits leading to the third-highest point in the Aberdares.
Rurimeria Trail is rated difficult and recommended for experienced hikers only. Make sure you have full hiking gear, which includes comfortable boots, warm clothes, rain gear, and leg gaiters. Be sure to bring your camera and binoculars, for there’s beauty in every step you take on this trail.
- Location: Ndunyu Njeru, Aberdare National Park.
- Length: 15 kilometers
- Duration: 7-9 hours
- Type of Trail: Out and back
- Highest Point: 3,860 meters above sea level
- Elevation Gain: 1,129 meters
18. Ragia Forest Trail
The Ragia circuit starts at Sasumua Dam through the Chinas camp gate. It then proceeds deep into the thick bamboo forest and follows elephant trails down the valley to the pipeline. The trail follows the left way and suddenly makes a steep drop to the Sasumua River, which leads to a magnificent waterfall called No. 18. From the waterfall, the trail leads to a sharp ascent back to the pipeline, which forms a better part of the trail. Again, hit the bamboo trail to the second cascading waterfall and famous Mau Mau cave, where Mau Mau generals like Field Marshal Dedan Kimathi used to lead their troops. From the waterfall, the trail leads back to the bamboo forest, partially retracing steps back to the start point.
- Location: The trail starts from the Sasumua Dam in Lari.
- Length: 17 kilometers/10.6 miles
- Duration: 5-7 hours
- Type of Trail: Out and back
- Highest Point: 2,519 meters above sea level
- Elevation Gain: About 200 meters
19. Kijabe Hills, Kijabe
It’s moderate and ideal for anyone who likes long walks and beautiful landscapes. The hike begins at a place called Governor along the Old Naivasha Road (just past Mai Mahiu). It then takes you up a gentle hill and along an old railway line. From here, it continues to the summit of Kijabe Hills and down through local farms. After a long, gentle walk, you cross the railway one last time, and the real challenge begins. The trail goes up a steep escapement and ends near Soko Mjinga, along road A104. Kijabe Hills Trail has two routes, both of which are in remote locations. Therefore, we recommend hiring a guide.
- Location: The hike starts close to Governor Shopping Center, Mai Mahiu.
- Length: 16 kilometers
- Duration: 6–8 hours
- Type of Trail: Point-to-Point
- Highest Point: 2,656 meters above sea level
- Elevation Gain: About 676 meters
20. Sleeping Warrior and Ugali Hills
Located adjacent to Lake Elementaita, and approximately 140 Km from Nairobi, the Sleeping Warrior Hill is a mimic of the sleeping Maasai Warrior, and noticeably the peak or the summit that resembles his nose from a distance. The locals associate the hill with a Masai Oloibon who died a long time ago. The trail starts from Lake Elementaita’s main gate and runs along the shores of the lake to the hot springs where locals and visitors take a shower as the water is believed to have a healing effect on one’s skin. It then proceeds towards the base of the Sleeping Warrior before leading to a sharp ascent to the nose (peak) which provides a magic view of the lake and the caldera.
The trail then descends towards the Eastern side for a short trek through rocky volcanic rocks before turning into a steep ascent to the Ugali hill. The top of the hill provides a panoramic view of the lake and the beautiful landscape of the Rift Valley. The trail then descends to lead towards a dirt road at the foot of Ugali Hills where the trek ends. The trail allows the trekkers to view wildlife, birds, and a scenic view of Lake Elementaita and beautiful landscapes.
21. William Hill Trail
The hill is moderate and suitable for beginners, day trippers, and anyone seeking breathtaking views. The hike starts at the historic Traveler’s Church in Mai Mahiu. It then follows a dirt road up to a river crossing. From here, you encounter the first steep ascent along a narrow path.
The hike then rejoins the dirt road for a long walk up to an abandoned camp. The fun begins at this point, as the trail takes you through the steep face of the Kikuyu Escarpment. The summit of this trail rewards you with great views. The landscapes are lovely, and the sights of the surrounding hills and mountains are beautiful. Attractions visible from the summit of William Hill include Mount Longonot, Mount Suswa, and the Great Rift Valley.
- Location: Traveler’s Church, Mai Mahiu.
- Length: 14 kilometers
- Duration: 5-7 hours
- Type of Trail: Point-to-Point
- Highest Point: 2,300 meters above sea level
- Elevation Gain: About 600 meters
22. Eburru Forest Trail
If you’re after hiking trails near Naivasha, Kenya, the Eburru Forest Trail is your best bet. This beautiful trail is a hiker’s paradise. It attracts fewer crowds, allowing you to connect with nature and have a memorable experience. Its route takes you through a lush indigenous forest that leads to the summit of Ol Doinyo Eburru Mountain.
The hike is moderate and suitable for hikers of all levels. You’ll enjoy the sight of hot steam vents, a waterfall, and beautiful views of Lake Naivasha and the Great Rift Valley. Eburru is also home to the endangered mountain bongo, a beautiful antelope found only in Kenya.
- Location: Eburru Forest Reserve in Naivasha.
- Length: 21 kilometers
- Duration: 7-9 hours
- Type of Trail: Loop
- Highest Point: 2,820 meters above sea level
- Elevation Gain: About 800 meters
23. Nairobi Arboretum
The Nairobi Arboretum is adjacent to the State House on a 30-hectare (74-acre) piece of land. It was set aside by the government in 1907 to plant fast-growing exotic trees for use during the construction of the Mombasa-Kampala railway. Back then they would cut indigenous trees along the railway, which was not sustainable, as they discovered because indigenous trees would take a long to mature. To date, the arboretum has over 350 types of both exotic and indigenous trees. There are paved footpaths throughout, which serve as hiking trails.
24. Chyulu Hills
These underrated and unexplored hills are located between Amboseli National Park and Tsavo West National Park. They cover a distance of 150 km with the highest point standing at 2,188 m above sea level. Unbeknown to many, Chyulu Hills has one of the longest lava tubes in the world. The trek covers a distance of 15 km through rugged terrain filled with wildlife and beautiful fauna, particularly after the rainy season. It takes about 3–4 hours to the mouth of the caves.
35 km from the Chyulu Hill National Park headquarters is the other hiking trail called Satellite, which was used as a training base by the US Army. The peak stands at 1,900 m above sea level. There are no trails, hikers follow wildlife tracks through these gentle hills. It is advisable to go with a park ranger.
