Rurimeria Trail, Aberdares

Rurimeria hills is a series of 4 ridges, the first being the steepest and the hardest as you gain altitude.  Rurimeria hill is 3,860m asl with an altitude of 12,670ft. It’s the third-highest Hill of the Aberdares. The other three are rocky and not as steep. The hardest part of hiking Rurimeria was the high altitude and the change in the weather. I was shaking and grinding my teeth at the second ridge. It’s windy, cold and you can feel your fingers harden.

The trail starts with an easy 4 km leisurely walk. It then becomes steep almost all the way, taking you past three false summits leading to the third-highest point in the Aberdares.

Rurimeria Trail is rated difficult and recommended for experienced hikers only. Make sure you have full hiking gear, which includes comfortable boots, warm clothes, rain gear, and leg gaiters.

Be sure to bring your camera and binoculars, for there’s beauty in every step you take on this trail. You’ll also see Rurimeria’s higher siblings – Mount Satima and Kinangop Peak.