Mount Marsabit

Mount Marsabit is a majestic extinct volcano located in the arid northern region of Kenya, in Marsabit County. Rising to an elevation of approximately 1,700 meters above sea level, this lush, green mountain is a dramatic contrast to the surrounding dry lowlands. Covered by dense cloud forest, Mount Marsabit is the heart of Marsabit National Park and home to a wide range of wildlife, crater lakes, and historical legends. It serves as a vital water catchment area and offers a peaceful natural retreat filled with stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.

How to Reach Mount Marsabit, Marsabit

Mount Marsabit is easily accessible via several travel options:

• By Road: From Nairobi, the mountain can be reached via the A2 Highway that runs through Isiolo and Archers Post, covering a distance of about 560 km. The journey takes approximately 10–12 hours by vehicle. A 4WD vehicle is recommended due to the rough roads in and around Marsabit.
• By Air: Marsabit town has a small airstrip that accommodates chartered and scheduled flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport. From Marsabit town, the base of Mount Marsabit is just a short drive away.
• Local Transport: Visitors can take local taxis or hire guides from Marsabit town to reach hiking trails and scenic spots around the mountain.

Weather at Mount Marsabit

Despite being located in an otherwise dry region, Mount Marsabit’s weather is cool and often misty due to its forested nature:

• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range between 18°C to 26°C, while nights are cooler at around 10°C to 15°C.
• Rainfall: The area receives significant rainfall during the long rains (March–May) and short rains (October–December).
• Best Time to Visit: The dry months from June to September and January to February are ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography.

Timing and Operating Hours

Mount Marsabit is part of the Marsabit National Park ecosystem and follows the standard timing of the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS):

• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, including weekends and holidays.
• Hiking Hours: Early morning hikes (6:30 AM to 10:30 AM) and late afternoon (3:30 PM to 5:30 PM) are recommended due to cooler temperatures and better wildlife activity.

Why Famous for Mount Marsabit, Marsabit?

Mount Marsabit is famous for several unique reasons:

• Its stunning cloud forest provides a green oasis in the otherwise barren north of Kenya.
• It is home to Lake Paradise, a crater lake surrounded by thick vegetation and frequented by elephants and birds.
• The mountain is historically linked to famous wildlife conservation stories, including Ahmed the Elephant, one of Kenya’s most protected animals.
• It has attracted explorers and documentarians like Martin and Osa Johnson who filmed African wildlife here in the early 20th century.

Entry and Visit Details about Mount Marsabit, Marsabit

Since Mount Marsabit lies within the boundaries of Marsabit National Park, entry is governed by KWS regulations:

• Entry Fees:
  • Kenyan Citizens: KES 300 (adults), KES 215 (children)
  • Residents: KES 1,030 (adults), KES 515 (children)
  • Non-Residents: USD 52 (adults), USD 35 (children)
• Payment: Visitors must pay via M-PESA or online through the eCitizen platform.
• Accommodation: Marsabit Lodge is the primary accommodation within the park. Camping sites and lodges are also available in the town.
• Guides: Guided tours and nature walks are available from local guides and KWS rangers stationed in the park.

History and Architecture

Mount Marsabit has historical and ecological importance:

• The mountain was formed millions of years ago through volcanic activity and has multiple craters, including those housing lakes such as Lake Paradise and Lake Sokorte Guda.
• The Marsabit Lodge, established during colonial times, is a rustic accommodation facility located near the edge of Lake Paradise.
• Ahmed the Elephant, known for his huge tusks, roamed Mount Marsabit’s forests and was declared a national treasure under President Jomo Kenyatta’s protection.
• The mountain's forests were a vital source of water for the local communities and still serve as a catchment for Marsabit town today.

Things to Do at Mount Marsabit

Visitors can enjoy several activities around Mount Marsabit, including:

• Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore trails through the misty forest, climb to viewpoints, and experience the unique highland ecosystem.
• Bird Watching: The forest is home to over 500 bird species such as hornbills, turacos, and raptors.
• Wildlife Viewing: Spot elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, leopards, bushbucks, and hyenas.
• Photography: Ideal for landscape, wildlife, and cultural photography due to dramatic scenery and vibrant biodiversity.
• Crater Lake Exploration: Visit Lake Paradise and other smaller crater lakes for their tranquility and wildlife.

Facts about Mount Marsabit

• Mount Marsabit rises to approximately 1,707 meters above sea level.
• The mountain contains three major crater lakes and several seasonal water bodies.
• It’s one of the few cloud forests in Kenya’s northern frontier, offering a rare ecosystem.
• Ahmed the Elephant, once protected by armed guards, lived on this mountain.
• The Marsabit forest is home to both tropical and savannah flora and fauna species.

Tips about Mount Marsabit, Marsabit

• Start hikes early in the day to avoid midday heat and increase chances of seeing animals.
• Always carry drinking water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
• Hire a local guide for safer navigation and to learn about local culture and ecology.
• Respect wildlife and do not feed or approach wild animals.
• Carry a rain jacket as the weather can shift quickly due to the mountain’s microclimate.
• Ensure your vehicle is well-fueled and in good condition before traveling into the park.