Mukutan, Laikipia

This is Africa at her wildest. Step into Mukutan to discover a world of untamed nature, where animals have only rare encounters with humans, where the only lights you will see are those of your own camp on the way back from a sundowner, where it feels like nature is truly in charge and us humans are privileged visitors.

The surrounding hills are perfect for long rides ending in secret spots for sunset, the nearby Engelesha Forest is thick with cedar and huge acacias, brimming with wildlife including colobus monkeys and elusive melanistic leopards, many rare birds and endemic insects. A nearby cottage by a lake is the perfect place to while away an afternoon waiting for elephant and buffalo to come to the water to drink.

RVO Mukutan cycles along jeep tracks within Mukutan Conservancy, high on the eastern escarpment of the Great Rift Valley. This pristine wilderness area is on the extreme western edge of Laikipia, enjoying immense views from high above Lake Baringo.

Cycling trails comprise jeep tracks and bush trails across this vast wilderness. The cycling routes we have selected are within the cattle grazing blocks, away from areas with significant wildlife. For added security the Mukutan Conservancy team will deploy their game scouts and vehicles to ensure that our trails are free from troublesome wildlife..

Cycling highlights:

• A moderate level of physical fitness is required to fully enjoy this wild landscape.
• There are no technical sections so the trails are suitable for everybody.
• Approximately 30-50 km of cycling per day includes a leisurely picnic stops.
• Vehicle support provides the option for cycling shorter distances.
• e-mountain bikes are welcome. (240V UK 3-pin plug standard).

FEES PER PERSON:
Adult Cyclist:        30,000   
Child Cyclist:        15,000  (14-17 years)
Adult Supporter:        15,000   
Child Supporter:        FREE   
Transportation:        available on request 
Bicycle hire:        available on request 

Full Board all inclusive rate for 2 nights (IN Friday – OUT Sunday), includes conservancy fees.
Accommodation (FB):    25,000
Self-tent (FB):        18,000
Children at reduced accommodation rates

Accommodation is at Mukutan Bandas, located in the centre of the conservancy in a small and peaceful savannah that is frequented by buffalo, elephants and occasionally lions; any of which might be seen by day and memorably heard by night. 

The Bandas are a charming and affordable option from which to explore the conservancy, a perfect option when you’d like to be completely immersed in nature but do not have the time to pack all your camping gear. 

There are 8 bandas, each with two queen beds and a verandah. Bathrooms are simple with long drop toilets and hot bucket showers under the stars.  Outside there is a cosy communal and mess area with a hearty fireplace where guests gather to recount stories of the day’s adventures.

Food is innovative, fresh and healthy, locally sourced and picked from the organic gardens.

Each day will cover approximately 30-50 km with 300-400 m elevation gain. Each day’s route is designed to match group preference. Terrain is along jeep tracks and bush trails. 3-5 hours of cycling with bush picnics at scenic locations.

GROUP SIZE
The ideal group size is 8-12 people.

VEHICLE SUPPORT:
Allows for shorter cycling distances along each day’s stage. Snacks and drinks will be provided along the way.

SELF DRIVE OPTION:
A driver is required for self drive option because we cycle 30 km into camp on arrival and again 30 km away from camp on departure.

ITINERARY:
Friday 07:00 – departure from JAVA House, Gigiri | arrive by 14:00 | cycle 30 km / 3 hours to Mukutan Bandas
Saturday 08:00 – cycle 30-50 km / 6 hours. Bush lunch at Mukutan Gorge with swimming in natural hot pool by the magnificent waterfall
Sunday 08:00 –  cycle 30 km / 3 hours to early lunch | 12:00 departure | 18:00 arrive Nairobi