Cell Phone - +256 701 483088 info@rwenzorimountaintrekking.com

Login

Sign Up

After creating an account, you'll be able to track your payment status, track the confirmation and you can also rate the tour after you finished the tour.
Username*
Password*
Confirm Password*
First Name*
Last Name*
Birth Date*
Email*
Phone*
Country*
* Creating an account means you're okay with our Terms of Service and Privacy Statement.
Please agree to all the terms and conditions before proceeding to the next step

Already a member?

Login
Cell Phone - +256 701 483088 info@rwenzorimountaintrekking.com
Email Us

Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park: A Nairobi Day Trip for Hikers

Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park is a small but significant national park located in central Kenya, a short drive from Nairobi. The park is dominated by its main feature, the magnificent Ol Donyo Sabuk Mountain, which gives the park its name. In the Maasai language, “Ol Donyo Sabuk” means “big mountain,” a fitting name for this isolated peak that rises majestically from the surrounding plains. The park is a popular destination for a day trip from the capital, offering a great hiking experience, stunning panoramic views, and a chance to see some wildlife.

Hiking to the Summit

The main activity in Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park is the hike to the summit of the mountain. A single, well-maintained dirt road winds its way from the park gate to the peak.

  • The Trail: The trail is a 9-kilometer journey to the summit. It is a steady uphill climb and can be done either on foot or, if you have a 4×4 vehicle, you can drive all the way to the top. The hike is moderately challenging and is a great way to enjoy the cool air and the scenery.
  • The Summit: The peak of the mountain stands at over 2,145 meters (7,037 feet) and offers a truly spectacular 360-degree view. From the summit, you can see the Athi River winding through the landscape, the surrounding plains, and on a clear day, you can even see the distant peaks of Mount Kenya and Mount Kilimanjaro.

Wildlife and Scenery

While Ol Donyo Sabuk is not a “Big Five” safari destination, it is home to a good variety of wildlife. The park is particularly known for its large population of buffaloes, and you are very likely to spot them grazing in the open clearings. The park also has a variety of other wildlife, including a large number of baboons and a variety of antelopes. Birdwatching is also a popular activity, with many species found along the forest trails.

The landscape is a mix of dry forest and savannah, and the journey up the mountain takes you through different vegetation zones.

A Glimpse into History

The mountain holds historical significance, particularly its connection to Sir William Northrup McMillan, an American adventurer and philanthropist. His famous house, Juja Farm, is located at the foot of the mountain, and his grave is near the summit. The park itself was created around his final resting place.

Planning a Visit

Ol Donyo Sabuk is an ideal destination for a day trip from Nairobi for those who want to escape the city and enjoy a scenic hike. It is also a popular spot for picnics and small gatherings at the summit. The park’s accessibility and its unique combination of hiking, views, and wildlife make it a rewarding and peaceful escape.