ELEPHANT HILL KINANGOP TRAVERSE

Elephant Hill – Kinangop Traverse: A True Test of Endurance in the Aberdares

The Elephant Hill – Kinangop Traverse is one of the most challenging and rewarding single-day hikes in the Aberdares. This ridge-to-ridge adventure begins at Elephant Hill and leads to the summit of Mount Kinangop, offering unmatched altitude gain, rugged terrain, and dramatic scenery. It’s a favorite among serious hikers preparing for climbs like Mount Kenya or Kilimanjaro.

Starting from the Elephant Hill trailhead at the Njabini Forest Gate, hikers pass through a progression of forest, bamboo, and moorland. The ascent to Elephant Hill’s summit (3,658m) is already demanding. However, the real challenge begins afterward, with a high-altitude traverse across the boggy saddle to Mount Kinangop, the second-highest peak in the Aberdares at 3,906 meters.

A Demanding Traverse with Unmatched Views

The Elephant Hill – Kinangop Traverse tests stamina, altitude readiness, and mental grit. The trail between the two peaks is exposed, steep in sections, and often wet or foggy. That said, the panoramic rewards are worth the effort. On clear days, you can spot Mount Kenya, Lake Naivasha, Mount Longonot, and the Aberdare moorlands stretching endlessly in all directions.

This route stands out not only for its elevation profile but also for its solitude and raw beauty. Few hikers take on the full traverse, making it an excellent choice for those looking to push beyond the typical Elephant Hill summit hike.

Elephant Hill – Kinangop Traverse Distance and Statistics

• Distance: ~20–22 km (one-way traverse)
• Maximum Elevation: 3,906 m (Mount Kinangop)
• Elevation Gain: Approx. 1,300+ m
• Duration: 8–10 hours
• Difficulty: Very strenuous
• Beginner-friendly: No
• Child-friendly: Not recommended under 16 year

𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐑𝐘

• 3:15 a.m Assemble and board the bus at CBD opposite international House
• 3:30 a.m Departure CBD opposite international House
• 6:30 a.m Arrival at Starting point
• 07:00 a.m Hike Starts
• 2:00 p.m. Turn back time
• 06:00 p.m Departure for Nairobi
• N/B Boarding starts 10 minutes before the departure time