Beyond Kenya Safaris

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 heath at the top (3,000-3,500m) is generally open and dotted with shrubs such as African sage, protea, and helicrysum, giant lobelia, 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 2-3 lbs, with larger fish reaching up to 6 lbs. A rowing boat is 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 the 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 bird watchers. 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) breeds around the cabins.
• Horse Riding: There is an option of riding to Rutundu from the neighboring Kisima Farm, across the moorland 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.