Kenya has a thriving adventure culture, from mountaineering and hiking to rock climbing and ultra-running. The following is a selection of a must watch Kenyan Mountaineering Films and Documentaries, talks, and podcasts showcasing the incredible stories of Kenyan adventurers—people who push boundaries, embrace the wild, and inspire generations. Whether you’re a hiker, climber, or outdoor enthusiast, these films and podcasts offer a glimpse into the highs and lows of pursuing adventure.
1. Gitonga (2020) – A Story of Dreams and Determination
📅 Premiered May 31, 2020
🎥 Directed by: [Director’s Name]
“A life-enhancing documentary—a story of warmth, generosity, and an undaunted human spirit.” – Neil Norman, Independent (UK)
Gitonga is an award-winning documentary that aired on national television to over 1.4 million Kenyans during the pandemic. It tells the remarkable story of a Kenyan father who rekindles his love for hiking and dares to dream big—to become the first Black Kenyan to summit Mount Everest. Beyond being a mountaineering documentary, Gitonga is a heartfelt narrative of ambition, resilience, and the power of inspiring others.
🏆 Awards & Recognitions:
✔ Winner – Best Documentary, Pan-African Kisima Africa Film Awards (2020)
✔ Official Selection – Banff Film Festival (2020), Kendal Mountain Film Festival (2020), Out of Africa Film Festival (2020), Tryon Film Festival (2020)
📺 Watch on YouTube: Gitonga Documentary
2. Cold Feet – A Kenyan Climber’s Boldest Challenge
🎥 Directed by: Ash Mulama
This gripping documentary follows 21-year-old Kenyan climber Peter Naituli as he attempts to free solo Point John (4,883m) on Mt. Kenya—without ropes or shoes. Facing freezing temperatures, powerful winds, and the ever-present risk of falling, Cold Feet is a thrilling exploration of human endurance, courage, and the raw beauty of Kenya’s mountains.
📺 Watch on YouTube: Cold Feet Documentary
3. Baada ya Summit Podcast – The Voices of Kenyan Mountaineering
🎙 Hosted by: Kiprono Leting
This podcast is a treasure trove of Kenya’s adventure scene, featuring conversations with legendary mountaineers, ultra-runners, and trailblazers. From James Kagambi, the first Kenyan to summit Mount Everest, to legendary trail runner Limo Kipkemoi, Baada Ya Summit (“After the Summit”) takes you deep into the minds of Kenya’s most inspiring outdoor figures.
🎧 Listen on Spotify: Baada ya Summit Podcast
📺 Watch on YouTube: Baada Ya Summit YouTube Channel
4. Gitonga – Engage Talk: Did I Dream Too Big?
Gitonga Wandai shares his deeply personal journey of falling in love with the outdoors and daring to dream of summiting Everest. This Engage talk takes viewers through his triumphs and setbacks, making us question our own ambitions and what we’re willing to do to achieve them.
📺 Watch on YouTube: Gitonga Engage Talk
5. Limo on the Run (2023)
Limo on the Run is a story of endurance, determination, and the deep personal meaning behind every stride. The film follows Limo, an architect and avid runner, as he takes on an ambitious challenge—completing six loops around Mount Longonot after multiple failed attempts. Through a reflective narrative, we see his journey unfold, interwoven with his career, past running experiences, academic path, and the people who shape his story. It’s a film about resilience, the joy of movement, and the unwavering spirit of a runner.
This collection of Kenyan adventure films, talks, and podcasts is a testament to the power of human resilience and exploration. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your next climb or simply enjoy stories of adventure and perseverance, these documentaries and discussions offer a window into the extraordinary spirit of Kenya’s outdoor community.
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Enjoy watching and or Listening!!
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