Mt.Kenya
Rutundu Log Cabins
Call Us Now +254 785 639 497
Overview
- Owned by: Ian Craig, Sue Roberts & the Froome brothers.
- Clientile: Guests who are keen to fish or are in search of stunning views and hiking. Perfect for families & the adventurous. Undeniably romantic for those on honeymoon.
- Hosts:Peter Kandie, Cosmas Cheseram, Jackson Sirma and James Chepkonga.
- Ambience & Syle: Simple, rustic and welcoming log cabins on the slopes of Mount Kenya.
- ‘X’ Factor: Remote location, off the beaten track with breathtaking scenery.
- Location: Located on the edge of Lake Rutundu, overlooking the north-eastern face of Mount Kenya, these rustic yet comfortable cabins are the perfect mid-safari break or escape from the bustle of Nairobi. The elevation (3,115m) results in vegetation and wildlife entirely unique to the area.
Rutundu log cabins is set off the beaten track on the northern slopes of Mount Kenya in an area of pure wilderness and breathtaking beauty. These simple but welcoming cabins, located on the edge of Lake Rutundu, are the perfect place to escape from the fast pace of modern life, unwind and experience nature at close range. Enjoy walking in the incredibly fresh mountain air or try your hand at trout fishing on Lake Rutundu or Lake Alice. Bring your catch back to cook and enjoy from the veranda of the main cabin, with incredible views across the magical high altitude heathland. Rutundu is perfect for fishermen, walkers, families, adventurers and those simple wanting to experience the tranquility of the mountain. Rutundu is also undeniably romantic for those on honeymoon.
Rates From USD
View Gallery
Related nearby property:-Lewa Sirikoi
Experiences
Part of the mountain’s fascination is the variation in flora and fauna as the altitude changes. The lower slopes are covered with dry upland forest; the true montane forest begins at 2,000m and is mainly cedar and podo. At 2,500m, a dense belt of bamboo forest begins, which merges into the upper forest of smaller trees, interspersed with glades. In this area the trees are festooned with high altitude moss. These forest belts are host to many different animals and plants with at least 11 unique species. The high altitude health at the top (3,000-3,500m) is generally open and dotted with shrubs; African sage, protea and helicrysum, giant loberia and giant erica (heather).
Mammals: black and white colobus, Sykes’ monkeys, bushbuck, buffalo and elephant. Lower on the mountain you find olive baboon, waterbuck, black rhino, black fronted duiker, leopard, giant forest hog, genet cat, eland, hyrax, bush pig and hyena. More elusive and incredibly rare to view is the bongo, a forest antelope. A number of other rare or endangered species can be found here: sunni, Mt Kenya mole shrew, skinks (lizards) and a variety of owls. Occasional sightings have been recorded of albino zebra.
Activities
- Walking: The area surrounding Rutundu is a paradise for those who love nature and hiking. There is a strenuous yet beautiful walk (of approx. 2 hours) up to Lake Alice, through giant groundsel and heather forest. For those wanting a shorter and less exerting walk, there is also a route around Lake Rutundu. In contrast to this moorland terrain, the cedar and podo forest, half an hour’s drive below the cabins, is full of lovely walks and beautiful spots to have a picnic. A climb to the top of Rutundu hill can also be challenging.
- Fishing: Lake Rutundu and Lake Alice are stocked with rainbow trout and provide excellent opportunities for fishing. The average catch is 2-3lbs, with larger fish reaching up to 6lbs.A rowing boat s provided and there are three casting platforms. Previous fly-fishing experience is not necessary. Next to Lake Rutundu is the Kizito/Kathita river gorge, a crystal clear river with small trout to catch, good for adventurous. Please read the ‘ fishing rules’ displayed in the sitting room. Guests who are Kenyan residents need to bring their own fishing equipment.
- Bird watching: Rutundu’s unique location allows for ample opportunities for birdwatchers, and most mornings scarlet – tufted malachite sunbirds (nectarinia johnstoni) and alpine chats (cercomela sordida) are seen from the breakfast table. The unique Mt Kenya striped chameleon (trioceros schubotz) breed around the cabins.
- Horse riding: There is an option of riding to Rutundu from the neighboring Kisima Farm, across the moor land and all the way to Rutundu. Overnight stays are advisable for this trip as the ride takes at least four hours. The horses are well–schooled polo ponies and you need to be an experienced rider.