EXPLORING TABLE MOUNTAINS IN THE ABERDARES
Aberdare Ranges is a wide stretch that stretches through Nyandarua, Nyeri, Muranga, Kiambu, and Laikipia. It covers 160km long. My goal is to explore the Aberdare Ranges to the fullest and enjoy the richness of this great forest. On our adventure today we explore the Table Mountains in the Aberdare Ranges.
The Table Mountains are located in the Northern stretch of the Aberdare Ranges. This is a mountain that is rich in scenic views. Its trails are a combination of a thick forest, heath, moorland, and rocky area near the summit.
LOCATION OF THE TABLE MOUNTAINS IN ABERDARE RANGES
Table Mountain trail starts in Mikeu town. From Nairobi via A104 and Ndunyu Njeru Road, it is 154.4km which takes 3 hours and 10 minutes. You will use the Waiyaki Way and branch at Njabini Flyover. You will pass through towns like Ndunyu Njeru and Wanjohi.
You can get to Table Mountain using public transport from Nairobi to Njabini town and use a taxi or matatu to Mikeu town. You can also use a private vehicle to the main entrance and the starting point of the trail to Table Mountain. The best option is to go there through a travel company. It is cheaper, safer, and more efficient.
HIKING TRAIL AND DIFFICULT LEVELS
Unlike the Elephant Hills located in Aberdare Ranges, where the starting point of the hike is 3km away from the entrance, Table Mountain is closer. The trail starts near the parking area or the entrance.
To get to Table Mountain you can use two routes, the 7ponds route or through the forest. At the starting point there are two routes the right trail will take you through the 7 ponds and the left trail will take you through the forest up to Table Mountain.
We took the left route through the green, dense thicket. At the beginning of this trail, you will pass a pipe system fixed on a high point. This trail is very slippery in the rainy season.
The trail has three parts the first part is through the green forest vegetation cover. Through this part, you will cross streams that have very slippery stones. This trail opens on a trail with lush grass. At this point, you can see Kipipiri Mountain. You can rest at this point and have some snacks.
The third part is a combination of heath and moorland. This part is wet and very cold. You will realize that the altitude will start to get on you. Make sure you have enough water to avoid headaches and your chest filling up.
It gets rocky in the last part before you get to the summit. The rock formation is so beautiful. Some of the formation looks like rock balancing art. The summit is at an elevation of 3971 meters above sea level.
From the summit, you will enjoy the beautiful view of Mount Satima, Lake OLbolosat, Rurimeria Hill, Mount Kipipiri, Seven Ponds, and the beautiful valleys and ridges.
The 1st stretch of the trail was the toughest part of the approximately 12.5km hike. The struggle is the same as when hiking the Elephant Hills and Mount Satima which has an exception of bogs on its trail making it more difficult.
The Table Mountain Peak
The summit of the Table Mountain is shaped like a table and flat on top. As you descend rock formations are scattered near the summit and look like human art, the famous rock balancing art. The view is very beautiful.
ACTIVITIES AROUND THE TABLE MOUNTAIN.
The main activity is mountain climbing. This is a climb that will get you out of your comfort zone such that reaching the top will be the greatest achievement. Other activities are:
- Photography
You can take photos at the summit or as you climb up. This is a great way to create memories.
- Birdwatching
The Aberdare forest has a variety of bird species. It is rich in vegetation cover and waterfalls which attracts birds. Carry your camera and capture bird species as you hike the mountain to add to your collection. Some of the species are the Augur buzzard, Moorland chat, crowned eagle, African yellow warbler, Olive ibis, bronzy sunbird, cinnamon-chested bee-eater, and many more.
- Wildlife
The Aberdare Ranges has a wide range of wildlife to see. Wildlife found here are the black and white colobus monkeys, syke monkeys, and olive baboons. The monkeys are mostly found in the indigenous forest. There are reptiles like snakes, and lizards which are mostly found in rocky areas. You will see squirrels running across the trails. Other animals are bushbucks, reedbucks, hyenas, and leopards which are mostly seen at dusk.
CAMPING AROUND TABLE MOUNTAIN
For you to camp around Table Mountain, you will have to inquire about camping. Confirm on things that you will need to carry and what they offer. Make sure to inquire about your security which is the most important thing.
Before you go camping plan your schedule for the days you plan to spend there. For example, where you plan to visit around Aberdare forest and activities you plan to engage in. This will enable you to make good use of your time here.
Make sure you bring along a sleeping bag, warm clothes because the area is very cold, and a first aid kit.
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT TABLE MOUNTAIN
You can visit Table Mountain any season of the year. The place is mostly cold and wet. The weather can start warm at the entrance but as you climb up it changes to very cold and windy.
The long rains are from March to May and the short rains are from November to December. This is not the best time to visit Table Mountain because the trails are very slippery, especially in the rocky area and the forest is very muddy. January to February is the dry season the mountain receives little rainfall. This is the best to visit Table Mountain.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS IN THE ABERDARE NATIONAL PARK
Some of the attractions are Aberdare Ranges which has the Elephant Hills, Mount Satima, Mount Kinangop, Rurimeria Hills, Mount Kipipiri, Ragia Forest, Ngare Ndare Forest, Kereita Forest near Kimende town among others.
Other attraction sites are Thompson Falls in Nyahururu, Karura Forest around Nairobi, the Sleeping Warrior, and Ugali Hills in Naivasha among other attractions.
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS AROUND TABLE MOUNTAIN
- Aberdare Cottages and Fishing Lodge is located on Gacharage-ini village Njumbi-Mioro road.
- Bubble Loge Kinangop is located on Engineer Njabini Road.
- Luna Light Guest House which is located in Karagita.
- Rock Villa Guest House in Njabini, SouthKinangop
ESSENTIAL HIKING TIPS AND SAFETY INFORMATION
Before going for this hike make sure you are physically and mentally fit. Two weeks before the hike, eat a heavy, balanced diet. Exercise your aerobics by running, swimming, and cycling two weeks before the hike. Do not forget to drink a lot of water to stay well-hydrated. Have enough rest and sleep two days before the hike.
Carry warm clothes preferably waterproof or carry a raincoat. Make sure you have nice shoes with a firm grip that can conquer the muddy area and the rocky parts. Carry enough water, 2 or more liters to stay hydrated. Carry enough snacks for energy because energy is key while hiking.
Book with us on this exciting hike are we explore the beautiful Kenya attraction sites and support our tourist attractions.