Climb High, Discover More: Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro and Kenya’s Hidden Trails

East Africa isn’t just about safaris—it’s a paradise for trekkers, climbers, and adventurers seeking the thrill of altitude, solitude, and unfiltered beauty. Whether you dream of standing on the roof of Africa or trekking through alpine moorlands, Cache Tours and Safaris offers unforgettable hiking expeditions to Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Kenya, and other spectacular trails across Kenya.

Mount Kilimanjaro: Conquer Africa’s Tallest Peak

Towering at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest freestanding mountain in the world and the highest peak on the African continent. Located in northern Tanzania near the Kenya border, Kilimanjaro is a magnet for trekkers from across the globe.

The best part? You don’t need technical climbing skills to summit Kilimanjaro—just good preparation, mental grit, and the right team.

Popular Kilimanjaro Routes

Cache Tours and Safaris partners with certified Tanzanian guides to offer safe, well-organized climbs via multiple routes. Each route varies in scenery, duration, difficulty, and acclimatization success.

1. Marangu Route (5–6 Days)

• Known as the “Coca-Cola Route”
• Only route with hut accommodations
• Easier path but lower success rate due to faster ascent

2. Machame Route (6–7 Days)

• “Whiskey Route”—more scenic, more challenging
• Higher success rate thanks to better acclimatization
• Ideal for fit hikers who want variety in terrain

3. Lemosho Route (7–8 Days)

• Beautiful and remote
• Excellent acclimatization profile
• High summit success rate

4. Rongai Route (6–7 Days)

• Approaches from the north (Kenya side)
• Drier, less trafficked
• Great views and wildlife sightings

All climbs include:

• Certified mountain guides and porters
• All park fees and rescue services
• Meals and purified water
• Tents or huts
• Pre- and post-climb accommodation in Moshi or Arusha

What to Expect on the Climb

Every Kilimanjaro expedition includes:

• Daily treks of 4–8 hours
• Camping under the stars (except Marangu route)
• Acclimatization hikes
• Jaw-dropping views of glaciers, moorlands, lava fields, and summit snows
• A midnight summit push to Uhuru Peak on the final day

It’s challenging. It’s cold. And it’s one of the most rewarding experiences on Earth.

Mount Kenya: East Africa’s Underrated Alpine Jewel

While Kilimanjaro gets global fame, Mount Kenya is a hidden gem—and Kenya’s highest mountain, standing tall at 5,199 meters (17,057 feet).

Unlike Kilimanjaro, Mount Kenya has three peaks: Batian (technical climb), Nelion (also technical), and Point Lenana—a non-technical trekking summit at 4,985 meters, perfect for adventurous hikers.

Top Routes on Mount Kenya

1. Sirimon-Chogoria Traverse (5–6 Days)

• Most scenic option
• Enter via Sirimon Gate and exit through the lush Chogoria trail
• Diverse landscapes: forest, moorland, glaciers, waterfalls

2. Sirimon Route (3–5 Days)

• Easiest access from Nanyuki
• Gradual incline, good for acclimatization

3. Chogoria Route (5–6 Days)

• Starts near Meru
• Features Lake Ellis, waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs

Our guided treks to Point Lenana include:

• Professional mountain guides and porters
• Tents or mountain huts
• National park fees
• Meals and water
• Pre- and post-trek accommodation

Mount Kenya is less crowded, more diverse in ecology, and offers a real wilderness feel—ideal for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Other Hiking Adventures in Kenya

1. Aberdare Ranges

Located in central Kenya, the Aberdares offer lush forests, bamboo zones, and moorlands. Hike past waterfalls, rare plants, and elephant tracks.

• Popular trails: Karuru Falls, Elephant Hill, Table Mountain
• Excellent for day hikes or 2–3 day treks
• Cooler climate and misty, magical ambiance

2. Hell’s Gate National Park

For a more relaxed adventure:

• Hike or cycle past gorges, geothermal cliffs, and wildlife
• Home to the inspiration for Disney’s Lion King
• Ideal for families or beginner hikers

3. Ngong Hills

A quick escape from Nairobi, Ngong offers:

• Panoramic views of the Rift Valley
• A 3–4 hour ridge hike over rolling hills
• Great for day trips and fitness hikes

4. Longonot Volcano Crater

• Short but intense hike up an extinct volcano
• 3–4 hour round trip
• Amazing views of Lake Naivasha and the Rift Valley floor

Best Time for Hiking in Kenya & Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro

• Best months: January–March & June–October
• Avoid rainy seasons: April–May & November

Kenya Highlands

• Best months: December–March and June–September
• Cooler temps and clearer skies at high elevations

What to Pack for Your Climb or Trek

Your packing list will depend on the trail, but essentials include:

For Multi-Day Mountain Treks

• Waterproof hiking boots
• Thermal base layers and insulated jacket
• Rain gear and gaiters
• Daypack with hydration bladder
• Sleeping bag rated for -10°C or lower
• Trekking poles
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm
• Energy snacks and personal first-aid kit

For Day Hikes

• Light hiking shoes
• Backpack with water and snacks
• Hat, sunscreen, and camera
• Warm layer for early mornings or windy ridges

We provide detailed packing lists when you book your trek with us.

Altitude Awareness: Staying Safe

High-altitude hiking comes with risks like Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). At Cache Tours and Safaris, we prioritize your safety with:

• Gradual ascent profiles
• Trained guides in high-altitude response
• Pulse oximeter monitoring
• Emergency evacuation plans (where available)
• Porter welfare policies

Why Hike with Cache Tours and Safaris?

We’re more than just a tour company—we’re passionate mountaineers and nature guides who believe hiking should be:

• Safe and supportive
• Ethical and eco-friendly
• Transformative and empowering

Whether you’re tackling Kilimanjaro or trekking through Kenya’s ranges, you’ll benefit from:

✅ Local expertise
✅ Customized itineraries
✅ Fair wages for porters and guides
✅ High-quality gear and logistics
✅ Authentic cultural insights

Our hikers come for the views—but they return because of the experience.

Combining Treks with Safari

Short on time? We’ll build a custom itinerary that combines a hike and a safari:

• Summit Mount Kenya, then spot lions in Samburu
• Climb Kilimanjaro and relax in Amboseli with elephant views
• Hike the Aberdares, then head to the Maasai Mara

The beauty of traveling with Cache Tours and Safaris is the freedom to design your journey around what excites you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need prior hiking experience?

For Kilimanjaro or Mount Kenya, no technical climbing skills are needed. A good fitness level, mental determination, and proper acclimatization are more important.

What about altitude sickness?

We design our hikes to minimize risk, and our guides are trained in first aid and altitude response. We recommend pre-trek training and hydration.

Are permits and park fees included?

Yes, all park fees, permits, and camping/hut costs are included in your trek package.

Can I rent gear locally?

Yes—sleeping bags, jackets, poles, and more are available for rental at the base towns before your climb.

Book Your East African Hiking Adventure Today

Whether you dream of standing atop Kilimanjaro or tracing Kenya’s mountain paths through ancient forests and volcanic craters, Cache Tours and Safaris is your trusted partner for hiking adventures in East Africa.

🗓️ Contact us today to start planning your trek—solo, with friends, or as a private group. We’ll handle all the logistics, so you can focus on the climb.

“The mountains are calling. Will you answer?”