The most scenic trail in the Aberdare range

Event Details

Mount satima and the Dragons' Teeth is one adventure you won't want to miss! If you're looking for an epic hike with stunning views, look no further than Mount Satima.

Mount satima is also known as Le satima or Ol Donyo Le Satima. The name emanates from the Maasai dialect. Ol Donyo Le Satima translates to "mountain of the bull calf." Firstly, It is the highest mountain in the Aberdare Range. Secondly, Mount Satima is the third highest mountain in Kenya. Thirdly, among the seven best moorland trails of Aberdares. Mount Satima is the most scenic trail in the Aberdare range.  

Mount Satima Altitude

A Trek to Mount Satima will expose you to high elevation. Le satima peak straddles the northern end of the Aberdares. Notably on the eastern side of the Great Rift Valley. The trail summit lies at 4001 meters above sea level. Hence, an ideal preparation to improve your general fitness and strength before the climb. Importantly, preparing you for similar altitudes of the high elevation mountains of east Africa.

Mount satima hike

Lesatima moorland trail is an ideal preparation hike. In particular, if one plans to climb Mount Kenya, Mount Kilimanjaro, or Ruwenzori peaks. High altitude adds them to the list of the most challenging trails in Kenya. However, natural beauty and the splendor of distinct vegetations will thrill the heart and make the soul rejoice. Lesatima can be accessed from Shamata Gate, Mutubio Gate, and Wandare Gate.

Dragons Teeth Kenya

Dragons' teeth are one iconic attraction in the Aberdare range. To illustrate, Dragon's Teeth is a collection of jagged rocks that soar dramatically above the constantly wet moors in northern Aberdares. Besides their beauty, these iconic rocks are favorite spots for rock climbers.

Rock Climbing in Dragons' Teeth

Rock climbing is a popular activity in Le Satima Dragons Teeth. Rock climbers camp here for the crag. The moraines are between 3,600 m and 3,800 m on the mountain's northwest. Rock climbing in Dragon teeth offers a unique training experience. Suppose you intend to attempt the Batian peak. The high elevation at Ol donyo Le Satima prepares you for the Batian peak.

Mt Satima Routes

There are two trekking trails on Mount satima. Namely, Wandare trekking tail and Shamata climbing trail. However, there are several access gates. They include; 

• The Shamata Gate
• Wandare Gate
• Rhino Gate

The Shamata hiking trail

Shamata trail is the most scenic trail while trekking at Satima. Also, it is the easiest to trek up Le Satima because of its flattish terrain. 

Wandare Trekking Trail

Wandare trail is shorter than the Shamata trail. However, it's a little bit steeper. In particular, while approaching the summit. In addition, it is less scenic compared to the Shamata trail, which hosts the famous Dragons teeth. 

Mt Satima Weather

Mount Satima is a high-elevation mountain. The weather gets colder and more intense winds as you go higher. There's also less air at these elevations. In brief, the altitude is likely to slow most climbers down. Therefore, knowing what to bring for the Mount Satima and Dragons Teeth hike is essential. 

What to Carry for Dragons Teeth Hike 

The weather can sometimes be unpredictable, so carrying all the essentials for hiking is advisable. They include:

Footwear

• Comfortable hiking shoes with an excellent grip
• Synthetic hiking socks 

Clothing

• Trekking fleece/ Cargo pants
• Hiking Synthetic or Polyester Top/T-shirt
• Down Jacket and a Poncho/Rain jacket
• Extra change of clothes after the hike

Accessories

• Sunglasses
• Sunhat
• Waterproof Gloves
• Sunscreen lotion

Equipment

• Trekking Pole
• Hiking Backpack
• Camelback to carry water
• Binoculars if you are keen on Birdlife
• Whistle 

Food & Drinks 

• Heavy snack or packed Lunch
• Energy Bars for a quick bite
•  Drinking water (not less than 2 Liters)

Mount Satima entrance fee & Pricing

The Mount Satima trekking package is available for private booking throughout the year. However, the price for our group joining Packages is as follows.

 

Cost Per Person on Self-Drive Option

Kenya Citizens: Kshs 2800

Kenya Residents: Kshs 3500 

Non-Residents: USD 81

 

Price Per Person on Group Transport

Kenya Citizens: Kshs 4599

Kenya Residents: Kshs 5399

Non-Residents: USD  91

 

Included in the cost 

• Transport
• Entrance Fee
• Guide Fee
• Photography
• Facilitation

Excluded in the cost

• Transport (for Self-drive option)
• Insurance
• Tips & Gratuities
• Anything else not mentioned in the Inclusions

 

 Please Note

• The pick-up Location & time can change if it's a private group with a different pick-up Location.
• The charges provided are standard and can vary depending on the pick-up Location.
• Costs can change if the number of participants changes.

 

Journey summary

Meeting/Pick-up point:    International House

Meeting/Pick-up time:     4:45 am 

Starting Point: Shamata gate

Ending point: Shamata gate

Estimated walking duration: 6 to 8 hours

Terrain: It's a gentle climb through the wet and boggy moorland, and then it gets steeper and rocky towards the summit. 

Difficulty: Difficult