Outdoors with Joshua
My family and I spend more time outdoors than indoors during school breaks. Here are some of the ways I spend my holidays.
Playing Football
You may find me on a football field when I’m not marveling at mountain vistas. The camaraderie with my teammates, the thrill of scoring a goal, and the sweet taste of victory make every game an adrenaline rush. It’s a sport that teaches me skills like teamwork, strategy, and discipline that are beneficial even in my school work.
Skating
I feel a rush of freedom and creativity when skating. The smooth glide, the sound of wheels on pavement, and the feeling of balance give me a unique sense of control. Skating allows me to challenge myself, learn new tricks, and continually push my limits. Additionally, it’s a way to connect with friends who share the same passion and explore the urban landscape in an entirely different way.
Exploring Hills & Mountains
One of my greatest passions is mountain climbing. There’s something incredibly exhilarating about scaling the heights of majestic peaks like Mount Kenya and Mount Kilimanjaro.
In addition to mountain climbing, I have a deep love for hiking, enjoying the incredibly liberating day treks through forests and scenic trails. I have done over 35 hikes, including difficult-level hikes like Elephant Hill and Rurumeria. These hikes gave me wilderness skills, including navigation and first aid.
Hikes
Here are some of my most unforgettable hiking destinations
I am a staunch follower of the Leave No Trace principle to ensure my adventures are sustainable
Elephant Hill is no ordinary hill; it’s a challenging ascent through lush forests and steep trails. The reward at the summit is a breathtaking view of the Aberdare Ranges that rise to the sky.
This attraction is closer to my home than the Aberdare Ranges, and I go for frequent hikes there. I love viewing the rolling grassy slopes and stunning vistas, all while enjoying panoramic views of Nairobi and the Great Rift Valley.
Kilimambogo, with its distinctive twin peaks, guarantees a unique hiking experience. It has a lush savannah and dense forests with sights of the Thika plains, Mount Kenya, and the Aberdare Range from the summit.
This hill has enchanting scenery and unique rock formations. It’s close to Nairobi; hence, my family and I can organize an impromptu weekend hike.
Conquering Le Satima is always a test of endurance, with pristine alpine meadows and tranquil tarns along the way. Nevertheless, the view from the summit is worth the sweat.
It’s one of the lesser-known hiking destinations, which ensures it preserves its beauty. The views, tranquility, and the endurance are unmatched
Eburru Forest, located on the slopes of Mount Eburru in the Rift Valley, offers a contrasting experience. Hiking there means immersing in lush montane forests, spotting unique birdlife, and discovering the mysteries of geothermal activity.
The grand finale of my hiking adventures in Kenya is climbing Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest peak. It’s a climb through diverse ecosystems, from forests to moorlands and alpine zones, to enjoy surreal views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.