2-Day Mount Kenya Trek to Lake Ellis & Nithi Waterfall

2 DAYS - 1 NIGHT
Category:
  • Most Scenic Places on Mount Kenya
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  • Mount Kenya Trekking Discover Breathtaking Lakes and Tarns
  • The Greatest Lakes in Mount Kenya
  • 5 Days Mount Kenya Trek Via Chogoria Route
  • Most Scenic Places on Mount Kenya

2-Day Mount Kenya Trek to Lake Ellis & Nithi Waterfall. Leave behind the city noise and experience the peaceful beauty of Mount Kenya on this short and scenic 2-day trek. Perfect for beginners and nature lovers, the tour takes you along the Chogoria Route to Lake Ellis and the enchanting Nithi Waterfall.

Spend the night at the serene Chogoria Bandas, where you’ll enjoy a hot shower and cozy bonfire under the stars. With moderate trekking distances and incredible landscapes, this is the ideal weekend mountain getaway from Nairobi.

The Highlights of the 2-Day Mount Kenya Trek to Lake Ellis & Nithi Waterfall

  • Easy-to-moderate trek via the beautiful Chogoria Route.
  • Hike to the picturesque Lake Ellis and Nithi Waterfall.
  • Overnight stay at Chogoria Bandas with hot showers and bonfire.
  • Guided experience with Ahambi Tours’ expert team.
  • Great views of Mount Kenya and diverse vegetation.

2-Day Mount Kenya Trek to Lake Ellis & Nithi Waterfall Itinerary

Day 1: Nairobi – Chogoria Gate – Trek to Chogoria Bandas (10 km Trekking)

  • Pickup in Nairobi and drive to Mount Kenya Chogoria Gate for park clearance.
  • Begin your 10 km trek through forest and moorland to Chogoria Bandas.
  • Enjoy the peaceful setting, hot showers, and evening bonfire.
  • Dinner and overnight at the bandas.

Day 2: Chogoria Bandas – Lake Ellis – Nithi Waterfall – Return to Nairobi (12 km Trekking)

  • Early breakfast and start a scenic 12 km roundtrip trek to Lake Ellis.
  • Continue to the beautiful Nithi Waterfall for sightseeing and photos.
  • Return to Chogoria Bandas for vehicle pickup.
  • Drive back to Nairobi, arriving between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM.

Best Time to Go for this 2 days hike 

  • Mid-December to Mid-March
  • June to October

These dry months offer the best trekking conditions and views.

Pricing for the 2 days mount Kenya hike to lake Ellis 

Number of Pax Price (USD)(Per Person)
1 Person $480
2 People $400
3+ People $360

Cost Includes:

  • Private transport from/to Nairobi
  • Mount Kenya National Park entry fees
  • 1 night at Chogoria Bandas with hot shower & bonfire
  • All meals during the trek
  • Certified mountain guide and support crew
  • Drinking water
  • Guided hikes to Lake Ellis and Nithi Waterfall

Why Trek with Ahambi Tours?

  • 10+ years of experience on Mount Kenya
  • Knowledgeable and friendly local guides
  • Small group or private trek options
  • Reliable logistics and top-rated client service
  • Eco-friendly and safety-first approach

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. How fit do I need to be for this trek?

This trek is suitable for beginners with a moderate fitness level. You’ll cover about 22 km over two days, with gentle elevation gain.

  1. Do I need special gear for this hike?

No technical climbing gear is needed. Comfortable hiking boots, a warm jacket, and layered clothing are sufficient.

  1. Can children or older adults join this trek?

Yes. This trek is family-friendly and suitable for older hikers, as long as they can manage moderate walking distances.

  1. Is accommodation private or shared?

Accommodation at Chogoria Bandas is in cozy cabins. You may share a cabin if in a group, but we can arrange private space on request.

  1. What is the weather like during the trek?

Daytime temperatures are mild, while nights can get cold. Expect cooler temperatures between 5°C to 10°C during the night, especially from June to August.

  1. What time will we arrive back in Nairobi?

You will arrive in Nairobi between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM on Day 2, depending on trail and road conditions.

7. Can I spend the night at Lake Ellis instead of Chogoria Bandas?

Yes. The tour can easily be customized for an overnight stay at Lake Ellis with camping gear. Let us know your preference at the time of booking, and we’ll tailor the itinerary for you.

Book Your 2-Day Mount Kenya Getaway

This short but stunning trek offers everything—mountain scenery, peaceful lakes, hidden waterfalls, and warm evenings by the fire. It’s the perfect weekend adventure for nature lovers.

To book your Mount Kenya trek, visit Mount Kenya trekking  Email: info@ahambitours.co.ke WhatsApp: +254 725 727167

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Day 1: Nairobi – Chogoria – Mount Kenya Bandas
  • Driving Distance: 220 km
  • Trekking Distance: 10 km
  • Elevation: 1,795m (Chogoria Town) to 2,950m (Mount Kenya Bandas)

Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Nairobi at 7:00 AM, heading towards Chogoria Town. Upon arrival (around midday), you will meet your guide and chef, who will accompany you for the trek. After a short briefing, you will drive to the Chogoria Gate (Clearance Point), situated at about 2,950m.

From the gate, your trek begins with a scenic 10 km hike to Mount Kenya Bandas, where you will spend the night. Along the way, you will enjoy beautiful forest trails, spot wildlife such as Colobus monkeys and bushbucks, and take in breathtaking views of the Gorges Valley.

Upon arrival at Mount Kenya Bandas, you will settle in for a warm dinner and an overnight stay. The bandas offer comfortable accommodation, and you can enjoy the beautiful highland scenery as the sun sets over the mountain.

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Day 2: Mount Kenya Bandas – Lake Ellis – Nithi Falls – Return to Nairobi
  • Trekking Distance: 12 km round trip
  • Driving Distance: 220 km
  • Elevation: 2,950m (Bandas) to 3,470m (Lake Ellis)

After an early breakfast, you will set out on a trek towards Lake Ellis, one of the most picturesque high-altitude lakes on Mount Kenya. The hike takes you through open moorland, where you will have stunning views of Mugi Hill and the Gorges Valley.

On your way back, you will take a short detour to visit Nithi Falls, a spectacular waterfall nestled in the forest. This is a perfect spot for photography and relaxation, allowing you to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and refreshing mist from the falls.

After the trek, you will return to Mount Kenya Bandas for lunch before boarding your vehicle back to Nairobi. Expected arrival time in Nairobi between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM.