A COMPLETE GUIDE TO MOUNT OLE SEKUT
You have not yet experienced the full beauty of Kenya until you visit Kajiado County. When I say Kajiado County is beautiful, believe me, because it is beautiful. Our journey today takes us to Kajiado County on Mount Ole Sekut.
Mount Ole Sekut is found in the south Rift Valley, in Oltepesi, Kajiado County, Kenya. The mountain forms the summit of the Kitalu Oloorruka Ranges in the Great Rift Valley. Ol Oroka means hump of a bull in the Maasai language. The shape of the peaks looks like a bull’s hump.
Mount Ole Sekut is a very scenic mountain with a beautiful landscape and the patterns of the hills and valleys. Great views and natural attractions like the caves. Visiting this place will heal the inner you. The place is relaxing, and the scenes are out of this world. The area is Maasai communal land. Foreigners call this place Ol Esakul, a swear word in the Maa language.
Directions to Ole Sekut Mountain
From Nairobi CBD, you will take Langata Road to Bomas of Kenya, turn right to Magadi Road, and drive past Ongata Rongai, Kiserian, and Corner Baridi till you get to Kisamis. At the Ngong circular road, drive past the bridge till you get to the JM Kariuki Memorial Marker.
From Nairobi via C58, it is 52.6 km and takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. From Nairobi, via Ngong Road and C58, it is 57.6 km and takes approximately 1 hour 34 minutes.
Mount Ole Sekut Hike
The distance of the hike is approximately 8 km
The hike is moderate
The time taken is 5-6 hours, depending on your pace and resting time.
The maximum elevation is 2085 meters above sea level.
The starting point of the hike is the Manyatta area near Ole Sayet. The terrain is flat and dusty but wide enough for a car to pass through. The starting terrain is fair and encouraging, and the views of the mountain ahead are more encouraging.
The terrain when you start hiking up is rocky, with loose pebbles, and very steep. Care is required while hiking up because a slight mistake can cause you to slide and roll down. The first few kilometers when you start climbing up are friendly, with shade from the acacia trees.
1st summit
After climbing up a few kilometers, there are two trails, one on the right, which is easier and moderate, and the other on the left, which is steep and tough to climb to the first summit. The hike to the summit is continuous steepness. From the first summit, you can see the beautiful views of Mount Suswa, Sleeping Warriors, Mount Longonot, and Ngong Hills. The landscape is so satisfying with a rewarding breeze.
2nd summit
The hike to the second summit is also not easy. You will descend the 1st summit and start a continuous ascent to the peak of the second summit. The trails are rocky, and some parts have shade from acacia trees.
From the second summit, you will enjoy the view of Mount Olorgesailie and the beautiful view of the Magadi area. The view of the landscape is so beautiful that no words can explain this beauty unless you visit and see it yourself.
3rd summit
This trail is not different from the rest of the hike to the peak of the summit. The benefit of hiking these peaks is that they are short and manageable; the only challenge is the high temperature and the rocky trail. The hike is beginner-friendly. You can visit the mountain and practice your hike for tougher hikes like Mount Kenya, Mount Kinangop, Mount Satima, and the Elephant Hills in the Aberdare Ranges.
4th summit
The fourth summit is the highest peak of Mount Ole Sekut. It is the Kitalu Oloorruka Peak at 2085 meters above sea level, according to the sign board at the peak. This is the climax of the hike and the main goal of everyone with the hiking spirit.
From the peak, you have a beautiful view of the Great Rift Valley floor and the surrounding attractions like Ngong Hills, Mount Suswa, Mount Longonot, and the Magadi area. On a clear day, you will see the Aberdare Ranges and Mount Kenya.
The view formed by the pattern of the hills and valley is just amazing. This is a destination that you should add to your bucket list.
The caves
There are caves around Mount Ole Sekut. They are big enough that you can sleep inside, but it is not safe due to snakes and bats. The adventure begins when you start to climb the caves. It is difficult but fun.
Amenities Available on Ole Sekut Hike
Some of the accommodations near Mount Ole Sekut are:
1. Shams Eco Camp is located in Ngong. The camp offers free bicycles and free parking.
2. Ol Talet Cottages, which is located off Magadi Road below Olepolos Country Club, Kiserian. They offer free wifi, parking, a swimming pool, and smoke-free property.
3. Tamaiyo 3-bedroom villa located in Ngong. They offer a private pool, a balcony, and a garden view. You can cook on the barbecue.
4. Champagne Ridge Villa is located on Olepolos Road.
What to Carry for Mount Ole Sekut Hike
Essential gear
1. Sunscreen
2. Beach hat
3. Sunglasses
4. A long sleeve and long bottoms
These gears are essential in this hike since it is hot and dry. You can get sunburns or tans on the uncovered body parts.
5. Wear light clothes since the weather is warm.
6. Carry at least 4 liters of water. Hydration is key in this hike.
7. Wear flexible shoes with the right grip since the trails are rocky with loose pebbles.
8. Carry a trekking pole to help you climb the steep slopes.
9. Carry a first aid kit to take care of adventure injuries. Make sure you know what is in the first aid kit and how to use each item.
10. Carry enough snacks like meat sticks, chocolate, hydrated fruits like apples, cheese, crackers, energy bars, and energy drinks. They help to give you energy as you hike.
Hiking Tips and Safety Advice while Hiking Mount Ole Sekut
This is a beginner-friendly hike since it is moderate and manageable. The only challenge is the hot temperatures and the rocky terrain, which are manageable. As you plan to come hiking here, engage in aerobic exercises like cycling, running, swimming, and jumping rope one week before the hike.
Eat a heavy, well-balanced meal with enough carbs, fats, protein, fruits, and vegetables. You need a lot of energy to climb to the peaks. Have enough rest and sleep two days before the hike. Eat your breakfast 3 hours before the start of the hike to allow enough time for food digestion.
Despite this being a beginner-friendly hike, preparation is key for any hike. Ignorance does not have a room when it comes to hiking.
Book with us and give us a chance to start your hiking hobby with fun, safe, and affordable adventures.