My Adventure to Lake Ellis
A Day Out in Mt. Kenya
Kenya is a land of extraordinary beauty, and a hike to Lake Ellis on majestic Mount Kenya is proof of that. My adventure via the Chogoria route had an unusual start. We left for Chogoria, at the base of Mt. Kenya, at 3 am, aiming for a 4 am departure.
Photo: a ābabyā Lake Ellis.
Unfortunately, light rains the night before a scorching hot February had turned the forest roads into a muddy mess. Our bus got stuck, forcing us to begin our journey about 3 kilometers from the official starting point.
Photo: Our bus is stuck in the forest.
Undeterred, we started our trek, hearts pumping wildly as we climbed the path towards breathtaking views of Mt. Kenya. The climb tested our stamina, with heart rates soaring to 170 bpm and beyond. Our first destination was the picturesque Nithi Falls.
Photo: Polluters are unwelcome.
The water was chilling, so cold it numbed my fingers after a quick wash. Some daring souls even drank the pristine water, and I can confirm its refreshing power. In that moment, surrounded by the untouched beauty of nature, I was struck by the perfection of God's creation.
From the falls, we continued onwards to our goal: Lake Ellis. The sight of the lake, nestled over 3,400 meters above sea level, was astonishing.
Photo: Lake Ellis.
Its expansive beauty filled me with awe and a profound sense of peace. I imagined the envy I'd inspire back home as I sat by the lake, surrounded by Mt. Kenya's peaks. The sight of hikers and mountaineers camped by the lake only increased my longing to spend a night in this idyllic setting. Kenya is a breathtaking country, and visiting Lake Ellis proves you can't afford to stay indoors on the weekend!
With photos in hand, we trekked back to our starting point, hoping to board our waiting bus and head for a hot meal before the drive back to the bustle of the city. As we descended, I reflected on the serenity of life outside the city limits, in harmony with nature. Hiking is proper multi-sensory therapy. Though descents are always arduous on my knees, I thrive on the challenge of a good climb.
Photo: camping in Mt. Kenya.
Mt. Kenya is a popular destination, and our downward hike was punctuated by encounters with porters carrying gear for hikers from around the globe. At the base camps, tents were pitched, and the smell of coffee wafted. The balance between humanity and nature felt perfect at that moment.
Photo: a Mount Kenya sunset.
As the setting sun touched the horizon, it was a stark reminder of the pollution and effects of climate change waiting for us in the city.
Legs weary but spirits high, we reached the trail's end. Our waiting bus spared us another 3 kilometers, descending in the encroaching darkness. Everyone on our team made it, a testament to our determination. After stretching and changing clothes, we headed out for a well-deserved meal before the 3-hour drive back to the city.
Photo: This is what you are missing by staying indoors.
We conquered our challenges and the mountain itself, all while spending quality time away from urban chaos.
A special shout-out to all the hiking newbies - the cult welcomes you! See you in the next one!Ā
In the meantime, check my other articles on different subjects like building social capital, reliving 2023, or how I walked 56 kilometers.
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