Join us on a thrilling trekking adventure to the Rurimeria Hill Trek Aberdares, Kenya. On the list of Aberdare trails, Rurimeria Hill is the third-highest hill of the Aberdares at 3,860 m (12,670 ft) above sea level. Even though it is famous for its challenging nature, it’s one of the best trails while training for Mount Kenya or Mount Kilimanjaro. Furthermore, this exceptional mountain climbing journey showcases an awe-inspiring landscape with colorful mountainous vegetation – a true feast for the eyes.Rurimueria Hill is also known as Rurimeria Hill. The hill earns its name from weeds that grew at its summit, known in the Maasai language as Olurumueria.
Mount Kenya Fitness training program continues. We return to one of the must-visit trails in Aberdares, the Rurimueria hill moorland trek. It is paramount to invest in a preparation hike to conquer Mount Kenya successfully. Our starting point was at International Life House. It took us 3 hours to get to Ndunyu Njeru Market by bus. Ndunyu Njeru is where the Kenya wildlife service office is; this is where you pay before proceeding to the forest. We also paid for an armed guide and continued to Gathuthi Primary, where the trail starts.
Rurimueria welcomes with a steep stretch. Technically, it takes about 10 to 15 minutes to walk to the electric fence from the school. The electric fence separates the residential area from the forest. The trail is approximately 8 kilometers. From the starting point to the summit, then back to the starting point again. Generally, It will take two to four hours to trek up the Rurimueria Hill. 1 to 4 hours to descend. It may take longer in the event of rain. The reason you should have a proper trekking boot. Your level of fitness also determines how much time you take.
Rurimueria Hill Altitude
Rurimueria Hill stands at an elevation of 3,860m, equivalent to 12,670ft. In comparison, to other mountains in the Aberdare National Park, Ruremeria is the third-highest. Mount Satima takes the lead with 4001 meters (13126.6ft). Mount Kinangop is the second highest. Stands at 3,907 meters (12,815.5 ft).
Rurimeria Hill Distance & Fitness level
Rurimueria requires a standard level of fitness. At least, it is paramount before you attempt this hill to have climbed several other smaller trails. The difficulty of hiking Rurimeria is moderate to high, depending on your fitness and experience level. Not ideal for children, older people, beginners, and persons with any health complications. Additionally, read essential tips on how to prepare for a hike. To know what to bring. Most of the hiking trails in the Aberdare ranges like Rurimueria are prerequisites for preparing for high-elevation treks. Rurimueria is also a perfect trek for hikers who love traverse hikes. From the Rurimeria peak, you can traverse to Seven Ponds and Table Mountain summits on the West. Or mount Satima on the North.
Rurimeria Hill Must-Know’s
Rurimueria Hill has steep rocks, bogs, swampy black soils, and thick grass and moorland. All these will slow you down and also make hiking Ruremeria difficult. On a scale of one to five, I would rate-hiking the Rurimeria landscape five out of five. Having a proper hiking boot with high ankle support and a good grip will make walking easier. Bring hiking gaiters to keep your shoes and hiking pant dry. Otherwise, you will be soaking in the mud and water from the bogs and thick grass. Having two hiking poles can also make navigating the steep terrain easier. It is easy to get lost in the Ruremeria Moorland, especially when it rains. The ribbons that mark the trail get lost on the thick grass. It would be best to take a guide with you to avoid such trouble.
Rurimueria/Rurimeria Hill Weather
During hot weather, you will encounter the hot sun rays from the starting point at the Geta Bush. Where there is a fence marking the entry point. Still, upon reaching the first peak, the beautiful sun disappears. You begin to experience cold weather from the strong winds and, most likely, rain. During the cold weather, you can barely see 10 meters ahead. This weather can be irritating as it covers all the beauty of this moorland trail.
Best time to visit Rurimueria Hill
Carry a hard-shell jacket, raincoat, and balaclava to protect you from the harsh mountain cold weather. If you plan to visit Ruremueria or any mountain in the Aberdares, anticipate heavy rains. From April to June or October to December. June, July, and August are the coldest months. Remember, the heavy rains will make descending Rurimueria Hill twice as difficult. Therefore, you must be prepared with the right mindset, stamina, and gear to overcome. The mountain weather is highly unpredictable. Hence, make sure you have your raincoat and warm clothing to be on the safe side.
Very informative and well written piece. I have been to this hill twice and it never disappoints notwithstanding the rains and muddy trail. I shall consider a 3rd run at it and I will definitely choose Wild Springs.
When I the trip…I am looking for one before Jan 2021
Rurumueria moorland trek is always a mixture of scenic views and a test of your endurance capabilities to steepness and altitude.
personally I’ve done it once and would definitely do it again.
It’s my second favourite Aberdares trails after Mt.Satima x Dragons teeth in terms of sceneries
The above is informative for return hikers or even those who are aspiring to embrace hiking me being one of them . It paints a clear picture of what to expect, yearning to tackle it this Saturday, Wild Springs, and I will give feedback.Good stuff
It should be my next fitness challenge ..