Mount Ololokwe 2-Day Hiking & Summit Camping 

This 2-day itinerary is designed for hikers seeking a more immersive Mount Ololokwe experience by camping on the summit. The adventure combines a scenic trek, overnight camping under the stars, and a spectacular sunrise over the Samburu landscape. Summit camping is offered by some local operators with community guides and porters, though facilities at the top are very basic, so all camping equipment and supplies must be carried up. 

Day 1: Nanyuki – Mount Ololokwe – Summit Camp

5:00 AM – Depart Nanyuki

Begin your journey north via Isiolo and Archer’s Post, enjoying views of Mount Kenya, Laikipia ranches, and the expansive northern Kenya landscape.

7:00 AM – Breakfast Stop in Isiolo

Enjoy breakfast and a short break before continuing to Samburu.

8:30 AM – Arrive at Sabache Camp (Trailhead)

• Meet your local Samburu guide.

• Register and receive a safety briefing.

• Organize camping equipment and water.

• Begin the hike.

9:00 AM – Start the Ascent

The trail passes through:

• Acacia woodland

• Rocky ridges

• Elephant paths

• Indigenous cloud forest

• Freshwater springs near the summit

Several viewpoints offer panoramic views across Samburu County.

12:30 PM – Lunch Break

Enjoy a packed lunch at one of the scenic viewpoints before continuing to the summit.

2:30 PM – Reach the Summit

Set up camp on the flat summit with the assistance of guides and porters.

Spend the afternoon exploring:

• Ancient fig trees

• Indigenous forest

• Natural springs

• Dramatic cliff edges

• Panoramic viewpoints

5:30 PM – Sunset Experience

Watch the sun set over:

• Samburu Plains

• Mathews Range

• Namunyak Conservancy

• Buffalo Springs National Reserve

The changing colors create excellent photography opportunities.

7:00 PM – Dinner

Enjoy a freshly prepared dinner around camp.

8:00 PM – Stargazing

With very little light pollution, the summit offers exceptional views of the night sky.

Overnight: Summit campsite in tents.

Day 2: Sunrise – Descent – Nanyuki

5:30 AM – Sunrise

Wake early to witness sunrise over northern Kenya—a highlight of the trip.

6:30 AM – Breakfast

Enjoy a hot breakfast while taking in the morning scenery.

7:30 AM – Explore the Summit

Take a short walk to nearby viewpoints for final photographs and birdwatching.

8:30 AM – Begin the Descent

Descend via the same trail, with opportunities to appreciate the mountain from a different perspective.

11:30 AM – Return to Sabache Camp

Freshen up and enjoy an early lunch.

12:30 PM – Depart for Nanyuki

Drive back through Archer’s Post and Isiolo.

3:30–4:00 PM – Arrive in Nanyuki

End of the adventure.

Hiking Summary

Camping Equipment

Bring or arrange:

• Four-season or quality three-season tent

• Sleeping bag (0°C to -5°C comfort rating)

• Sleeping mat

• Headlamp

• Warm jacket

• Rain jacket

• Trekking poles (optional)

• 2–3 litres of water

• Packed lunch and snacks

• Personal toiletries

• Camera

• Power bank

• First-aid kit

Wildlife You May See

• Rock hyrax

• Klipspringer

• Olive baboons

• Vervet monkeys

• Elephants (mainly on lower slopes)

• Hornbills

• Verreaux’s Eagles

• Sunbirds

Best Time to Visit

The best months for hiking and camping are:

• January–March

• June–October

These seasons generally offer dry trails, clear skies, and excellent sunrise and sunset views. 

Important: The summit is a sacred place for the Samburu community. Camp only with authorized local guides, avoid lighting open fires unless permitted, leave no trace, and carry out all waste. Summit camping has no permanent facilities, so hikers should be fully self-sufficient or supported by a guiding team.