Our legal team travelled to the sleeping warrior in Elementaita on the 9th of November 2024. We took off early at around 8:00 am, and we had to make a few stops to pick other hikers along the way.
We were travelling from Nakuru city, and by 10:00am, we had arrived at Kikopey beach camp.
Sleeping Warrior is located approximately 127 kilometres (79 miles) northwest of Nairobi, which translates to about a 1.5-hour drive via the main highway to Nakuru city.
The sleeping warrior from Nakuru city is roughly 31 kilometres (about 19 miles) away, making it a short trip that typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes by road.
The first item on the list was to get into the park, and we also got to purchase special walking sticks to help us walk around the hills.
The day’s activities included visiting lake Elementaita and hiking the Sleeping Worrier and Ugali hills before taking lunch.
On our way through the park, we could see the diverse wildlife and were welcomed by the Zebras and southern ground hornbills.
Sleeping Warrior and Ugali Hills
The first activity of the day was hiking Sleeping Warrior Hill located about 10-20 Kilometers from Lake Elementaita.
This distance varies with the trail you choose to take, but on average, it lies within that range.
The Sleeping Warrior, a prominent geological feature of a mountain, often leaves visitors awed with how accurately it resembles a person sleeping on their back.
Our guide took us through all the dos and don’ts during the hike and what to look out for. We were instructed to follow our four guides without veering off the main route as getting lost within the thick vegetation at the bottom of the hills is possible.
This area has stunning landscapes, which include escarpment, lakes and volcanic formations. As you look at the mountain, you can see the face of the sleeping warrior, the chin, its neck and the rising chest together with the rest of the body.
Geographical and Geological Features
The Sleeping Warrior is within the Soysambu Conservancy, a protected area encompassing Lake Elementaita.
This region is part of the Great Rift Valley, characterized by its dramatic landscapes formed through volcanic activity.
The hill rises sharply, with a peak often called the “nose.” The ascent to this peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Lake Elementaita, the Eburru Hills, and the Mau Ranges.
Hiking Experience
We started our hike about 4 kilometres from Lake Elememetaita. Along the way were power transmission lines supplying electricity towards the communities, the rangers, and hotels within the park.
At the foot of the hill, visitors have a spectacular view of the sleeping warrior, which has a unique formation formed through volcanic eruptions and erosions.
The goal was to hike through the chest of the great sleeping warrior and exit through the neck. We took a short walk to the hills and arrived at the foot of the mountain after about an hour.
Most of us were fit and hiked within 3 hours to the top of the chest of the sleeping warrior.
However, some experienced challenges because of the steepness of the hill.
The trail winds through lush vegetation and offers opportunities to observe local wildlife, including various bird species and mammals that inhabit the Soysambu Conservancy.
The hike up the Sleeping Warrior is considered moderate, covering approximately 10 kilometres for about 3-5 hours. The rocky terrain may be overgrown with thorny shrubs, requiring careful navigation.
Highlights of the Hike
As you ascend, you begin to see the stunning views of Lake Elementaita and its surrounding landscapes. The view from the peak provides an opportunity to appreciate the breathtaking landscape.
The land is green with vegetation and turns white towards the lake because of the white sand. You can also see the local people, including the Maasai community, grazing their cattle at the foot of the hills.
Also, on top of the sleeping warrior is a beautiful caldera formation due to the volcanic eruption followed by the collapse of the land above.
The large depression provides a stunning vantage point for panoramic views of the surrounding areas and locals grazing their animals at ease with a clear view from the hill.
The geological feature enhances the dramatic landscape, offering hikers the experience of tranquillity and the beauty of nature as they rest after navigating the hill to the top.
After taking in the views from the top of the sleeping warrior, we descended through the neck, navigating through a very slippery rocky terrain as we headed to the Ugali hill.
Many hikers broke into songs and dance as a sign of victory as we came to a close of the sleeping warrior and headed toward the ugali hill.
Ugali hill named for resembling the traditional Kenyan dish made of Maize flour, “ugali”, Ugali Hill presents another steep climb. The Ugali hill offers additional spectacular views of the surroundings, including the Sleeping Warrior from a distance, which is adjacent to it.
Ugali Hill enhances the hiking experience with vibrant flora and fauna. On top of Ugali Hill is another breathtaking view on the east side, with yet another caldera with spectacular volcanic formations and a panoramic view of stunning landscapes.
The climb difficulty level was around the same as Sleeping Warrior Hill, although some felt it was more difficult.
The climb up and down Ugali hills is approximately 2-3 hours. However, the views from the Ugali hills were breathtaking in their own way.
The Legend Behind the Sleeping Warrior Hills
Locals believe that the Sleeping Warrior represents Oloibon, a legendary Maasai warrior.
According to one popular legend, the Sleeping Warrior was once a mighty warrior who fought bravely to protect his people.
After a long and arduous battle, he fell into a deep slumber, exhausted from his efforts. The gods, recognizing his valor and dedication, transformed him into a hill so that he could rest forever while still watching over his homeland.
This tale serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who protect their communities.
Lake Elementaita
Nestled in Nakuru County, Kenya, Lake Elementaita and Lake Nakuru are mesmerizing saline lakes that grace the stunning Rift Valley landscape.
Known for their unique ecosystems, these lakes offer a spectacular sight, particularly the breathtaking pink shoreline of Lake Elementaita, which comes alive with the vibrant hues of lesser flamingos that flock to its shores.
On our visit, however, we were met with an unexpected twist—the flamingos had migrated south to Lake Natron in Tanzania for their breeding season.
While it was disappointing to miss these iconic birds, our spirits were lifted by the presence of graceful great white pelicans gliding across the water.
The scenery remained captivating even without the flamingos. In the distance, the silhouette of the Great Sleeping Warrior, a majestic hill, provided a stunning backdrop against the shimmering lake.
The Maasai Community Living Around Lake Elementaita
During the visit to the Maasai community near Lake Elementaita, we had a unique opportunity to experience their way of life firsthand.
As we tracked through the area, we encountered their traditional manyattas, which are circular homesteads made from mud and thatch.
These structures are not only homes but also represent the rich cultural heritage of the Maasai people.
The locals were incredibly welcoming. They offered us drinking water to quench our thirst and provided shelter from the intense sun, showcasing their kindness and hospitality.
Interacting with the young boys and girls was a highlight of my visit; they greeted us with smiles and were eager to share their customs and stories.
We observed how the Maasai live in harmony with nature, tending to their cattle and engaging in traditional practices passed down through generations.
The community’s connection to their environment is evident in their daily activities, as they teach their children about the importance of nature and conservation.
This experience allowed us to appreciate not just the beauty of the landscape but also the resilience and warmth of the Maasai people.
Their willingness to share their lives with us made the visit truly memorable, deepening my understanding of their culture and traditions.
Lake Elementaita Activities
Photography
Visitors often come for bird watching, landscape photography, or to marvel at the natural beauty.
The best views of the Sleeping Warrior are typically from vantage points where the entire figure can be seen lying across the landscape.
Visitors capture its unique form, especially at different times of day. The light and shadow enhance its warrior-like appearance.
Hiking
Nature lovers can experience wildlife, local communities and vegetation through hiking trails at Lake Elementaita. The guides can take you through different trails, and you can choose between hiking the Sleeping Warrior or Ugali Hills.
Camping
The area offers several camping options to enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife. There are different camps, such as the Oasis Eco Camp on the shores of Lake Elementaita. It offers a campsite where you can set up your tent and facilities like clean flush toilets and hot showers. The camp provides a family-friendly atmosphere and has various accommodation options, including rustic cottages and large tents.
There are also multiple campsites within the Soysambu Conservancy, such as Simon’s Camp, Monkeybridge Camp, and Waterbuck Camp. These sites offer stunning views of the lake and are close to wildlife, making them great for nature lovers.
Wildlife and Birds at Lake Elementaita
The area surrounding Lake Elementaita and the Sleeping Warrior is rich in biodiversity:
Birdlife
The lake is home to over 450 bird species, including migratory birds that visit seasonally. It serves as an essential habitat for these species. Some of the birds you can expect to find include:
Flamingos
On the day we visited the lake, we did not get the chance to see any flamingoes. Our tour guide explained that we visited during the migration season, where the flamingoes move to Lake Natron to breed.
However, he explained that both Greater Flamingos and Lesser Flamingos are abundant at the lake, often seen feeding on blue-green algae and small invertebrates. The Lesser Flamingo, in particular, create stunning pink displays along the shores.
We had the chance to look at other bird species including:
- Great White Pelicans
- African Spoonbill
- Black-Necked Grebe
- Yellow-Billed Stork
- Egyptian Geese
- Egrets
- Grey-Headed Gulls
- Spoonbills
- Black-Winged Lapwing
- Grassland Pipits
- Red-Capped Larks
Wildlife
The Soysambu Conservancy supports various wildlife populations, including zebras, giraffes, gazelles, and elands.
This diversity makes it a popular destination for eco-tourism. You can also get a chance to see other wildlife, including:
- Rothschild’s Giraffe
- Zebras
- Gazelles
- Warthogs
- Impalas
- Buffaloes
- Bushbucks
- Leopards
- Jackals
Conservation Efforts
The Soysambu Conservancy plays a crucial role in conservation efforts to protect both wildlife and natural habitats.
Local communities actively engage in conservation practices to safeguard their environment while benefiting from eco-tourism.
Hiking and nature tours are promoted as sustainable activities contributing to environmental conservation and local economies.
Conclusion
The Sleeping Warrior is not just a remarkable natural formation but also a site of cultural significance and ecological importance.
Its breathtaking views and rich biodiversity make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Great Rift Valley region.
Whether you are an avid hiker or simply seeking to connect with nature, conquering the Sleeping Warrior offers an unforgettable experience amidst Kenya’s stunning landscapes.
