Ol Donyo Orok Enamuka Trail is a unique trail at the border of Kenya and Tanzania, Namanga. She has it all, beauty and this imposing figure, you definitely can’t ignore her. The only other thing to stand up to her is Mt. Longido on the Tanzanian side but she ain’t intimidated. Ol Donyo Orok knows who self, a guardian angel who watches over Namanga town and the plains below.
Forest reserve
The Ol Donyo Orok Forest Reserve is a gazetted area, a large part of it consists of elevated cloud forest (above 1700 m). Being one of the few remaining patches in the arid rift of Kenya, it contains a large variety of plant species. Additionally there are medicinal herbs and also several animal species not found in the surrounding semi-arid lowlands. In the mountain valleys, there are natural water catchments created by the high altitude rains and the high humid climate. These provide the surrounding Maasai communities with water and pasture even during the dry seasons.
The Trail
The trail starts near Paradise Hotel snaking through the acacia-covered grazing land before entering the forest reserve. Along the greenery in the deep is a hidden water cascade. Further up you follow the cattle trails up Enamuka view point with excellent views of Mount Longido. From here its about 1 hour to the summit. Enjoy more magical views as you snack and connect with other trail lovers. The trails down retraces the trail up.
Elevation
The Namanga Hill rises to a height of 2584M, along the trail massive boulders reward the trekkers with amazing views of Mt. Longido and Mt. Kilimanjaro. Certainly the trail is rated moderate and will take you approximately 6-7 hrs to complete. This makes Ol donyo Orok Enamuka Trail ideal for for beginners and experienced hikers to spend some great time outside.
Explore other trails in the Rift Valley here
