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LAKE ELLIS HIKE & CAMPING

A scenic two-day Chogoria highland hike with alpine camping and waterfall views

Saturday, March 21, 2026
5:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Camping Beginner Friendly Child Friendly

About This Event

The Lake Ellis Hike and Camping is a relaxed yet immersive two-day adventure in the Mount Kenya region, starting from Chogoria Gate. The hike combines a scenic forest drive, a gentle trek to Lake Ellis for an overnight camp with bonfire vibes, and a rewarding morning walk to the breathtaking Nithi Falls viewpoint before returning to Nairobi.
The Lake Ellis Hike and Camping begins on Day One with an early departure from Nairobi and a drive to Chogoria Gate. From the gate, the group ascends approximately 22 kilometres by bus through dense montane forest and bamboo zones, enjoying scenic views as altitude is gradually gained. The drive ends at the Chogoria Gate, where the hiking section begins. From the drop-off point, hikers set off on a gentle 10-kilometre trek to Lake Ellis Camp. The trail follows well-defined paths through open moorlands and heath vegetation, with Mount Kenya’s rugged peaks occasionally revealing themselves through the clouds. The hike is steady and manageable, making it suitable for hikers looking for a calm introduction to high-altitude terrain without aggressive elevation gain. Upon arrival at Lake Ellis, hikers set up camp beside the tranquil alpine lake, surrounded by rolling hills and expansive skies. The evening is spent unwinding, enjoying warm meals, and soaking in bonfire vibes as temperatures drop and the stars emerge. The remote setting offers a peaceful night in the highlands, ideal for rest and acclimatization. Day Two begins early with a light breakfast before a morning trek toward the Nithi Falls viewpoint. The trail leads through open terrain with dramatic escarpment views, culminating at the viewpoint where the Nithi River plunges into the valley below. Hikers take time to enjoy the scenery, capture photographs, and appreciate the scale of one of the region’s most impressive waterfalls. After the visit to Nithi Falls, the group retraces the route back to Chogoria Gate and begins the return journey to Nairobi, concluding a well-balanced hiking and camping experience that blends scenery, relaxation, and adventure.
Distance

20 km hiking (round trip)

Duration

2 days

Max Elevation

3455m

Elevation Gain

650m

Event Itinerary

DAY 1: NAIROBI – CHOGORIA GATE – LAKE ELLIS

5:15 a.m. – Boarding begins at Nairobi CBD, next to International House
5:30 a.m. – Departure for Chogoria Gate
9:00 a.m. – Arrival at Chogoria Gate (Registration)
10:00 a.m. – Final preparations at Chogoria Gate and lunch
11:00 a.m. – Hike begins via Nithi Falls
3:30 p.m. – Arrival at Lake Ellis, campsite

Evening: Relaxation, snacks, bonfire, fun activities, and dinner


DAY 2: LAKE ELLIS – CHOGORIA GATE – NAIROBI

6:00 a.m. – Wake-up call
7:00 a.m. – Breakfast
10:00 a.m. – Depart from Lake Ellis back to Chogoria Gate
2:30 p.m. – Departure for Nairobi

What's Included

Cozy transport to and from.
Park entrance and guide fee.
Access to professional workout/aerobics instructor
Professional Photographer
Bottled drinking water
Community fee
Achievement Badge

Trip Package Inclusions:
✅Lunch upon arrival at Chogoria.
✅Dinner on the night of camping.
✅Brunch on the morning before departure.
✅Beverages will be available at the camp, and a complimentary beverage will be served at the end of the hike.
What to Wear
Light, breathable hiking top (quick-dry for comfort)
Light jacket or windbreaker for cool mornings
Comfortable hiking pants or leggings (avoid jeans)
Quality hiking socks to prevent blisters
Hiking shoes or trail runners with good grip (essential for muddy waterfall trails)
Cap or hat for sun protection
Sunglasses (optional)
Sunscreen to protect from high-altitude sun
Light rain jacket or poncho
Small daypack for carrying essentials
Insect repellent for forest and waterfall sections
What to Carry
ESSENTIAL PACKING LIST FOR LAKE ELLIS CAMPING

Sleeping bag
Thermal wear (base layers)
Puffer jacket (warm insulated jacket)
Warm hat
Warm pants
Warm socks
Warm gloves or mittens
3 litres drinking water and suitable snacks
Rain jacket
Rain pants
Trekking pole
Identification documents
Headlamp
Camping personal effects (toiletries, sunscreen, lip balm, power banks, etc.)

Preparation Guidelines

Get moving with active cardio exercises like aerobics, walking, running, cycling, and swimming during the week leading up to the event.
Designate the day before the hike for some well-deserved rest—give your body a break from intense exercises.
Amp up your hydration game at least two days before hitting the trail.
Make sure to prioritize a good night's sleep before the hike.
Boost your energy reserves by upping your carbohydrate intake two days prior. If you're into intermittent fasting or on a diet, take a one-day break around the hike.
Trim those toenails—your feet will thank you later!
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at least three hours before the event. This ensures your body has time to digest, providing the energy you need without making your stomach feel too full.
Take a pre-hike bathroom break at home to minimize pit stops during your journey.
Prepare your mindset for self-conquest. Remember, hiking is 90% mental, 10% physical prep. Once you conquer your mind, the rest is a breeze. You've got this!

Trail Information

Moderate, well-defined trails

Book This Event

Pricing Options
Category By Bus Self Drive
Kenyan & EAC Citizen KES 16,500 -
Foreign Kenyan Residents KES 22,000 -
Non-Resident African Citizen $220.00 -
Discounts Available
  • Child discount available
Secure payment - Free cancellation - 24/7 support
Location & Meeting Point
Lake Ellis, Mount Kenya (Chogoria Route)

Mount Kenya National Park, Chogoria, Chogoria, Kenya

Meeting Point

Nairobi CBD – International House

Event Organizers
Event Details
  • Date: March 21, 2026
  • Time: 5:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Minimum Age: 7 years
  • Status: Upcoming
  • Created: Dec 30, 2025
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