In October 2024, Earth’s Edge General Manager, Joannda, headed to Kenya to experience our signature Tri-Adventure for herself. Below is her personal account of this epic trip!
It’s safe to say that the Kenya Tri-Adventure is a nonstop adventure from start to finish. From hiking Mount Kenya and summiting Lenana Point (4,985m) at sunrise, to biking through villages with local children cheering you on, and tackling the white-water rapids of the Tana River, this trip is an absolute whirlwind of adventure!
Our incredible guides Julius and John made every step of the journey seamless, safe, and unbelievably fun. Each day, we’d arrive at camp to find our dedicated team of porters had tents already set up and hot drinks waiting. Add in two unforgettable safari game drives and camping under the African stars inside the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, the Kenya Tri-Adventure is hands down one of the most incredible experiences Earth’s Edge has to offer.
Day 1: Jambo! Welcome to Kenya!
– Arrival in Nairobi
Touching down in sunny Nairobi early in the morning, we were greeted off the plane by Julius, one of our expert guides, whose energy and infectious smile set the tone for the week ahead. Not far behind was our second guide, John, calm and collected as always, making sure everyone had enough water, and getting us loaded into the bus for our drive to the river camp, our starting point for the Kenya Tri-Adventure. These two legends have been leading Earth’s Edge trips in Kenya since the very beginning, and it showed—they knew exactly how to keep us motivated, safe, and most importantly, having an amazing time.
Nestled along the Tana River, we arrived at the absolutely gorgeous river camp by lunchtime – a lush oasis buzzing with cicadas, bright yellow weaver birds flitting through the trees, and monkeys playing along the riverbank. Our accommodation was simple but comfortable, featuring ensuite toilets, hot showers, and even two small swimming pools to cool off in! After a delicious lunch, our expedition briefing with Julius, John, and our expedition doctor Lara prepared us for the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Into the Foothills of Mount Kenya
– Trekking to Chogoria Gate Camp (2,950m)
The first leg of our adventure took us to Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest peak after Kilimanjaro. After a scenic drive through Mount Kenya National Park, and some permit formalities, we set off on our hike. At Chogoria Gate (2,200m) we had the last bit of Wi-Fi connectivity before going offline for the next few days. This was actually a welcome change – switching off completely from the day-to-day and simply focusing on the trek.
Our first Kenyan wildlife encounter was an unexpected one – the most amazing little horned chameleon, something I’d never seen before! After a few hours of easy hiking and just as dusk fell, we arrived at the tranquil Chogoria Camp, neatly tucked away in the forest. Our team of porters had our tents already set up, and dinner preparations were well underway. We crawled into our cozy sleeping bags that evening just as a thunderstorm hit with heavy rain—luckily, that was the only rain we experienced during the entire trek!
Day 3: Waterfalls and Jagged Peaks
– Hiking from Chogoria Camp to Lake Ellis (3,500m)
Fuelled by a breakfast of pancakes, toast, sausages and beans, we set off once more by 8 am. Despite the early hour, the sun was already out and warming quickly. Constant views of Mt. Kenya’s incredible jagged peaks gave us a sense of what was to come.
We reached Chogoria roadhead (3,300m) after only an hour and a half, where we took a slight detour down to Nithi Falls. It was a steep scramble down at the end but wow, was it worth it! A spectacular double tiered waterfall revealed itself, and many in the group took the opportunity to take a quick dip in the icy cold water. Back at the roadhead, we enjoyed a refreshing glass of juice and a blueberry muffin to keep our energy levels up until lunch.
We arrived at our Lake Ellis camp (3,500m) by 12.30pm, and had a chance to explore the area a little before lunch, followed by a relaxing afternoon with front-row lakeside views. A crackling bonfire after dinner kept us warm while we chatted before turning in for an early night.
Day 4: Altitude Gains and Spectacular Views
– Hiking from Lake Ellis to Mintos Camp (4,280m)
Another early start with a 7am breakfast enjoyed outside in the sun before setting off again an hour later. We started off by circling to the other side of the lake, before taking on the first serious incline of the trek. The views grew increasingly more breathtaking as we climbed, with plenty of breaks for snacks and photo opportunities.
Around midday, we arrived at the most spectacular lunch spot yet, with views over the Gorges Valley where we enjoyed our lunch of hot dogs and salad. By now, we were well above the treeline, gaining serious altitude as we climbed towards Mintos Hut Camp (4,280m) – another beautiful lakeside camp with Mt. Kenya’s stunning jagged peaks towering above us.
Once again, we arrived at camp to find tents already set up, hot drinks waiting, and even popcorn and biscuits on offer! Our incredible porters made sure we were always looked after, bringing us each a bowl of warm water to rinse off after the day’s efforts. Afterwards, we took the short stroll to the “Temple” viewpoint, spotting numerous rock hyraxes scurrying about along the way. Unfortunately, by the time we reached the viewpoint, clouds had rolled in, which may have been a blessing, considering it boasts a daunting 500-foot vertical drop—not for the faint hearted! We turned in for an early night ahead of our toughest day of the trip.
Day 5: Summit Day!
– Reaching Point Lenana (4,985m) on Mount Kenya
The big day! A 2 am wakeup call signalled the start of our Mt. Kenya summit day. Freezing temperatures and thin air made for a tough climb, but John’s slow, steady pace and encouragement kept us going. We took regular five-minute breaks to have some water before pushing on. Breathing became increasingly difficult as the air thinned and exhaustion kicked in the higher we climbed. With head torches on, we trudged upward through the darkness. All I could see was the person in front of me taking one step at a time as we slowly ascended the steep mountain. The final push to Point Lenana (4,985m) was hard but Julius was right there when I needed help, taking my daypack to ease the load.
As dawn broke just after 5am, the sky erupted in a spectacular display of purple and orange hues, pushing us forward to the summit. The feeling of standing at the top, celebrating together as a team, was unreal. A few tears, a lot of hugs, and plenty of photos later, we started the long descent to Old Moses Camp (3,350m). This was a grueling 16-hour day that left us utterly exhausted but completely exhilarated. We collapsed into our tents for a well-earned rest, and welcomed the warm bowl of water for a wash before a quick dinner and an early night.
Day 6: Biking Through Rural Kenya
– And An Amazing Safari!
No rest for the weary! Straight into the second leg of the Tri-Adventure—biking through rural Kenya. By 6:30 am, we were back on the trail, this time for an easy stroll down a paved road – a welcome change after yesterday’s scree! A couple of hours later, we reached the equator, experiencing the surreal feeling of walking from the Southern to Northern Hemisphere! Not long after, with zebras and baboons along the side of the road, we arrived at our first destination of the day – Sirimoni Gate.
With Mount Kenya well and truly behind us, the adventure shifted gears—literally—as we hopped onto our mountain bikes for a two-day ride through the Kenyan countryside. We said a heartfelt goodbye to our incredible team of porters before gearing up, getting a last-minute safety briefing and by 9.30am we were on our way once more, navigating down the gravel path on our bikes.
The ride was hot and dusty as we biked through small villages, where we were met with beaming smiles and shouts of “How are you?! I am fine!” from local children running alongside us. One cheeky kid even shouted, “Hey! You’re last!” as I struggled up a hill—nothing like some lighthearted motivation!
Our ride ended at Ol Pejeta Conservancy, home to the Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino – as well as giraffes, zebras, hyenas and more. Our fabulously cheerful driver, Danny, did an incredible job and our first game drive was unbelievable! We saw rhinos play fighting, elephants minding their young, and lions stalking warthogs, as well as zebras, hyenas and even an ostrich! We also had the sobering opportunity to visit the rhino graveyard, a reminder of the sad fate that has befallen many rhinos in the park, poached for their horns.
That night, we camped right inside the game reserve. setting up our own tents was a humbling experience after being spoiled by our porters!. As darkness fell, we gathered around a roaring bonfire, enjoying a delicious BBQ under the stars, with the sounds of hippos grunting in the river nearby.
Day 7: Safari Adventures
– And Overcoming Dehydration
The next morning, after an early breakfast and a visit down to the river to see the hippos that had been grunting through the night, we set off on another game drive, getting up close to both elephants and giraffes. We visited Baraka, a blind rhino, and the chimpanzee sanctuary before finally hopping back on our bikes for another long day of biking through stunning landscapes.
Unfortunately, dehydration hit me hard, and I had to skip today’s bike ride as I was feeling really nauseous and exhausted. This is where the incredible support of having a doctor with us really came into play for me. Dr. Lara gave me a thorough check-up and confirmed that I was dehydrated after yesterday’s long and hot bike ride and the challenge of summiting Mount Kenya. She outlined options for me, and encouraged me to take it easy, hydrate, and rest as much as possible.
John quickly reorganised logistics, shuffling gear between the van and support jeep. Before long, I was on my way back to the river camp with John, sipping many litres of water to rehydrate! While it wasn’t what I would have wanted, that flexibility and support — making sure I got back safely while the rest of the group powered on for another amazing day of biking — was so reassuring. There was always a backup plan if you needed it. It felt amazing to have a hot shower and a good rest back in our lovely hut at the Tana River Camp, and by dinner time I was feeling much improved.
Day 8: White-Water Rafting on the Tana River
– The Ultimate Adrenaline Rush!
Just when we thought the adventure couldn’t get any better, it was time for white-water rafting on the Tana River. This final leg of the Tri-Adventure was probably the one I’d been looking forward to the most (although it’s nearly impossible to pick a favourite!)
Our group split into three rafts, each led by expert guides including (of course) Julius, who seems to be able to do everything and is just as skilled on the water as he is on the mountains!
A few practice runs and maneuvers later, we tackled exhilarating rapids, swirling currents, a couple of decent drops, and floated through calmer sections, soaking in the scenery. At one point, we climbed a rock and leapt into the river, floating downstream before rejoining the rafts. It was an exhilarating, laughter-filled day—easily one of my favorite experiences of the trip!
The afternoon was spent relaxing at camp, packing up and soaking in the last of Kenya’s sunshine. Hard to believe our epic adventure was coming to an end!
Day 9: The Final Farewell
On our final morning, a few adventurous souls in the group opted for one last adrenalin rush – bungee jumping over the Tana River – while the rest of us cheered them on from the riverbank. Then, it was time to load everyone back onto the bus one final time for our drive back to Nairobi airport.
As we drove back to Nairobi Airport, I couldn’t believe how fast the week had flown by. Every single day had been an adventure: from summiting Mount Kenya, to biking through the Kenyan countryside and rafting wild rapids on the Tana River, this trip was an absolute whirlwind of excitement. Add in two unforgettable safari game drives and nights under the African stars, and the Kenya Tri-Adventure is without a doubt one of my favourite experiences yet.
Tearful hugs and goodbyes ensued as we bid farewell to the incredible duo that is Julius and John. We honestly couldn’t have been in better hands. Their leadership, humour, and experience is what made this trip truly special.
Would I do it again? In a heartbeat.
Final Thoughts
– Why the Kenya Tri-Adventure is So Special
What makes the Kenya Tri-Adventure stand out isn’t just the variety of activities—it’s the people who make it all happen. Julius and John are absolute pros, ensuring the trip runs seamlessly while making sure everyone is safe, supported, and having a blast. They’ve been leading this Earth’s Edge expedition from the very beginning, and their experience, positivity, endless energy, and deep knowledge of Kenya, combined with their genuine care for every traveller, made all the difference.
Whether it was Julius keeping us motivated up the steep climbs and making us laugh after a tough day, or John pacing the trek perfectly, and ensuring everything ran like clockwork, they truly are the heart of this adventure.
Ready to take on Mount Kenya on the Tri-Adventure?
If you’re looking for a fun expedition that will challenge and inspire you, while immersing you in Kenya’s beautiful landscapes, the Kenya Tri-Adventure is the perfect choice. This expedition is more than just a holiday; it’s a challenge, an experience, and a memory that will stay with you forever.
From trekking to nearly 5,000m and summiting Mount Kenya at sunrise, biking through rural Kenya, and tackling white-water rapids, to spotting rhinos, hippos and lions on safari, this trip is an unforgettable experience from start to finish. And with Julius and John leading the way, you know you’re in for something truly special.
Thinking about joining the next Kenya Tri-Adventure? Check out the full itinerary and sign up today—this is one adventure you don’t want to miss! 🚀
