Combining hiking Mount Kenya with a safari in Masai Mara offers an unparalleled safari adventure. Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for the spectacular Great Wildebeest Migration, which occurs seasonally from June to September. During a game drive in Masai Mara, you can witness a plethora of wildlife, including gazelles, impalas, zebras, giraffes, waterbucks, bushbucks, elephants, lions, leopards, hyenas, and rhinos. If you visit during the migration season, you may see millions of wildebeest crossing the Mara River. Hiking Mount Kenya, the second-highest peak in Africa is a dream come true, offering about seven days of trekking through diverse vegetation zones and breathtaking scenery.
Imagine standing on the roof of Africa, having conquered the majestic Mount Kenya, and then embarking on a thrilling safari in the iconic Masai Mara. This combination of hiking and wildlife adventure is a dream come true for many travellers. The journey offers a unique blend of physical challenges, natural beauty, and unparalleled wildlife experiences. In this article, we will explore the wonders of combining a hike up Mount Kenya with a safari in Masai Mara, highlighting the best times to visit, what to expect, and why this adventure should be on your bucket list.
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How to Plan a Trip to Masai Mara National Reserve and Hiking Mount Kenya
Day 1: Drive to Mount Kenya
The driver guide will pick you up from your overnight accommodation early in the morning to start the drive to Mount Kenya. The route to be used for the hike on Mount Kenya is the Chogoria route. The drive time from Nairobi to Chogoria is about 4 to 5 hours. Start the trek up Mount Kenya, passing the montane forest to about 2600 meters above sea level, where you may spend the night.
Day 2: Ascend to 3400 meters above sea level
Continue hiking on Mount Kenya, passing Heather and Proteas. Look out for the stunning beauties in the different zones of Mount Kenya, including flowers like Senecio, Kniphofia, and gladiolus. On this day, you may cover about 14 kilometres.
Day 3: Hike to Minto’s Hut
Wake up early morning to cover a larger distance on Mount Kenya. This walk is off the beaten path. The walk is around the lake, crossing over the valley, passing the ridge, and joining the track on the Chogoria route. Bypass the Gorges Valley and enjoy the amazing views, move to Itinguni and north moorland. Spend the night at Minto’s Hut.
Day 4: Hike to Lenana Peak
Wake up very early in the morning to embark on the long journey to the summit of Mount Kenya at Lenana. It is best to start the hike at about 0230 hours and use torchlight to cover the largest part of this section to get to the top at sunrise to enjoy the stunning view from the peak. You pass the Simba Col for the stunning sunrise. Take photos as memories of this challenging adventure up Mount Kenya. Start descending via the Sirimon route to Shipton Camp where you may enjoy some refreshments. Continue down to Judmier Camp for the night and dinner.
Day 5: Descend and Drive to Lake Naivasha
Move down to the bottom of Mount Kenya and drive to Nairobi to carry on to Lake Naivasha where you spend the night.
Day 6: Boat Ride in Lake Naivasha
Wake up early for breakfast and head for a spectacular adventure on Lake Naivasha. Enjoy the schools of hippos in the water, and you may spot some wild animals like waterbucks and bushbucks. Enjoy a walk on Crescent Island where you may encounter several herbivores like zebras, giraffes, and others.
Day 7: Drive to Masai Mara National Reserve
Wake up early for breakfast, and our safari guide will pick you up to start the drive to Masai Mara National Reserve. Enjoy the drive through Kenya’s countryside and arrive in time for an afternoon game drive.
Masai Mara National Reserve is the northern extension of Serengeti National Park. During the great wildebeest migration season, millions of wild animals migrate from the southern part of Serengeti National Park to seek better pastures in the north. The starting time of the great wildebeest migration season is hard to determine, but it is alleged that the zebras may be the stimulators of this yearly wild animal exodus.
Several animals join the journey, including gazelles, elephants, bushbucks, impalas, buffaloes, giraffes, lions, cheetahs, leopards, jackals, and others. Although ungulates are the main participants of this seasonal event, carnivores normally join them to pick on the weak trekkers.
As you enter Masai Mara National Reserve, you may spot some of these animals as you drive on the tracks within the Reserve.
Check into your accommodation and wait for dinner and overnight.
Note: You can also fly to Masai Mara and land on the airstrips closer to the location where your accommodation is.
Day 8 Game Drive in Masai Mara National Reserve
Get up early in the morning for a game drive in Masai Mara National Reserve. Drive through the Reserve’s tracks and try to look out for animals in this park, including lions, hyenas, Rhinos, wildebeests, hartebeests, buffaloes, elephants, elands, zebras, impalas, gazelles, and others. Keen birders may spot a wide range of Masai Mara National Reserve birds.
If planned, you may have breakfast in the wilderness before continuing on another game drive to spot several animals. Have lunch at your lodge to relax, or spend the entire day in the park premises to enjoy the influx of the great wildebeest migration if it is the season.
Day 9: Second game drive in Masai Mara National Reserve
If you want to see more in Masai Mara National Reserve, take another game drive. You will take the tracks you may have missed the previous day and enjoy the presence of several animals that call Masai Mara home. The most rewarding season is the great wildebeest migration season when millions of animals grace the park premises to enjoy the pastures.
The Mara River drama is unforgettable, as you may witness survival for fitness in reality. Some animals try to push their way up while crocodiles smash them back into the water to be slaughtered. Even carnivores pull their share.
Day 10 Fly to Nairobi
The sun on this Kenyan safari is unforgettable, but it’s time to depart so that you can catch your flight back home. Fly to Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to catch your flight back home.
When Is the Best Time to go on a Safari in Masai Mara National Reserve and Hike Mount Kenya?
The dry season is the most preferred time for both hiking Mount Kenya and going on game drives in Masai Mara National Reserve. During this period, the trails on Mount Kenya are easier to navigate, and the tracks in Masai Mara are more accessible.
Scenic Views and Wildlife Activity
Hiking Mount Kenya during the dry season offers the best views of the surrounding scenery. Similarly, game drives in Masai Mara are more rewarding as animals are more visible in the shorter, dry grass. Herbivores are more mobile due to the scarcity of grass, making it easier for carnivores to hunt, which means you might witness more predator-prey interactions.
High Demand and Preparation
Be aware that the dry season is also the peak time for tourists. Many people aim to combine mountain hiking with a safari in Masai Mara, so expect to share the space with other adventurers. It’s essential to book all necessary logistics, including accommodation and transport, well in advance.
Wet Season Considerations
The wet season, typically the low season, may not be ideal for mountain climbing due to intense rains. However, it can be a unique time to visit Masai Mara, as the abundance of food leads to more infant births, providing opportunities to see young animals and their interactions with the environment.
Planning your trip according to these seasonal insights can enhance your experience, whether you’re scaling the heights of Mount Kenya or exploring the vast plains of Masai Mara.
How Safe is Masai Mara National Reserve and a Hike to Mount Kenya?
Both a safari in Masai Mara and hiking Mount Kenya are generally safe activities, provided you follow the necessary precautions.
Guided Tours and Safety Measures
For hiking Mount Kenya, it is mandatory to be accompanied by a professional ranger guide. These guides are equipped with emergency defense items to ensure your safety.
Safety in Masai Mara
While on a safari in Masai Mara National Reserve, it is crucial to stay inside your vehicle to avoid encounters with wild animals that could be dangerous. Avoid provoking any wildlife, as this can lead to aggressive behaviour.
Staying on Designated Paths
Whether hiking Mount Kenya or exploring Masai Mara, always stick to the designated trails. This helps prevent accidents and minimizes environmental impact.
Health Precautions
Avoid consuming contaminated food before or during your activities to prevent food poisoning, which could necessitate unscheduled stops. Such stops are not advisable in the game reserve or while hiking.
Emergency Preparedness
Carry a first aid kit with prescribed medications to handle any emergencies that might arise.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in both Masai Mara and Mount Kenya.
Cost of Hiking Mount Kenya and Visiting Masai Mara
The expenses for hiking Mount Kenya and visiting Masai Mara National Reserve can vary based on several factors, such as the chosen trail, the duration of the safari, and the size of your travel group. Entrance fees are mandatory for both activities.
Additional Costs to Consider:
- Hiring porters for the hike
- Tips for guides and staff
- On-ground purchases
- Other miscellaneous expenses
What to Pack for Hiking Mount Kenya and a Safari in Masai Mara
- Extra Batteries: Fully charged batteries for your devices.
- Hiking Boots: Comfortable, waterproof boots for long-distance hiking.
- Sunscreen: To protect your skin from sunburn.
- Camera: To capture memories of your hike and safari.
- Sunglasses: To shield your eyes from sunlight and insects.
- Insect Repellent: To protect against stinging insects.
- Garden Gloves: To protect your hands from rough surfaces.
- Extra Clothes: For changing after a long day.
- Energy Bites: Snacks to keep you energized between meals.
- Hiking Rods: For extra support while hiking.
- Backpack: To carry your belongings securely.
- Torch: For lighting in the dark.
- Cash: For on-ground purchases like hiring equipment or buying food.
- Warm Clothing: As it gets cooler at higher altitudes.
- Binoculars: For better visibility of distant features.
- Stockings: To keep your feet warm.
- Head Gear: To protect against the cold.
- Sleeping Bag: For overnight stays on Mount Kenya.
- First Aid Kit: With emergency medication.
- Rainproof Gear: To stay dry and warm in case of rain.
- Ice Axes, Ropes, Harnesses, and Crampons: Specialized gear for challenging sections of the hike.
Contact Dav Safaris for more information, whether you opt for a 5 days Kenya and Tanzania safari or a longer itinerary, we will help organize your entire safari to Masai Mara and Mount Kenya, depending on your budget. Check out our reviews on TripAdvisor to make the right decision.