Mackinder's Valley. & Mackinders Hut Camp

Mackinder Valley Elevation / Altitude: 3,900 m above sea level.

Mackinder’s Valley offers an enticing adventure for hikers, presenting two distinct routes to explore its scenic wonders. One option is to embark on a hike from the Sirimon gate, passing through Old Moses and Likii Valley. The other route starts from the Naro Moru gate, leading hikers through the Teleki Valley and Mackinder’s Camp before reaching the summit of Point Lenana. Both routes offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and diverse flora and fauna, making Mackinder’s Valley a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. Alternatively, travelers can opt to drive through the park to Old Moses, reveling in the captivating views of the surrounding flora and fauna along the way. If luck is on your side, you might even encounter some wildlife during your journey.

Additionally, Naro Moru Lodge is in charge of the administration of Mackinder’s Camp. There is a substantial area for camping, as well as a rather spacious bunkhouse.

Mackinders Hut Camp

Nestled at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) on Mount Kenya, Mackinders Hut is your high-altitude home away from home. This spot along the Naro Moru route in Teleki Valley isn’t just any campsite; it’s a full-on mountain retreat.

Accommodation: Picture this – you’ve got a stone-built lodge, the Teleki Lodge, with glass windows offering panoramic views of the mountain. Inside, it’s like a dorm room for adventurers, with bunk beds for up to 50 people. If you’re camping, there’s space for that too, and don’t worry about water; they’ve got that covered. But remember, booking ahead is your best bet for a spot.

Who You’ll Meet: At Mackinders, you’re likely to bump into climbers either gearing up for the summit or coming down with tales of their ascent. These folks are your go-to for the latest on weather and climbing conditions. Some use the camp for a day or two to get used to the altitude before pushing higher.

The Journey: If you’re climbing up via Naro Moru, you’ll hit Mackinders late on your second day of a typical four-day trek. For those descending, it’s your first stop after the summit, usually on day three.

Nature’s Touch: Despite being so high up, the area isn’t barren. You’ve got patches of grass, unique groundsel plants, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot rock hyraxes and various birds hopping around the rocky terrain. Mornings can be foggy, and you might even get a sprinkle of rain or snow, just to remind you you’re in the mountains.

As you ascend along the Mackinders Hike track, you’ll traverse through the upper moorland zone, where lobelias and other alpine vegetation adorn the landscape, creating a picturesque setting. Eventually, your hike will lead you to the breathtaking Mackinders Valley, where, weather permitting, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Peaks before beginning your descent.

Mackinder’s Valley is renowned for its remarkable features, including the towering giant lobelia and groundsels plants that punctuate the landscape. The serene Liki North River meanders through the valley, adding to its natural allure. At the foot of the three highest peaks, you’ll find Shipton’s Camp, a popular resting spot for trekkers and adventurers.

The valley has historical significance because it was here that Mackinder, Ollier, and Brocherel made the first ascent of Kenya on September 13, 1899. Local beliefs also attribute spiritual significance to the mountain, with the indigenous peoples of Kenya considering it a sacred site where God (known as Ngai in Gikuyu) is believed to reside, and where spiritual rites are performed.

For those seeking to conquer Point Lenana, the Naro Moru route offers a popular and accessible option. This route typically takes around three days to complete and features bunkhouses at each campsite for added convenience. Beginning in Naro Moru town to the west of the mountain, the route ascends towards Mackinder’s Camp before joining the Peak Circuit Path. While the terrain is generally favorable, trekkers should be prepared for challenges such as the infamous Vertical Bog section along the way. The Naro Moru route is known for its scenic views and diverse landscapes, making it a favorite among hikers looking to experience the beauty of Mount Kenya. Trekkers should also be aware of the altitude gain along the route, which can cause altitude sickness if not properly acclimatized.