Hiking Tips for Amateurs

Beautiful View atop Ngong Hills [Hill No. 2]

I'm quickly succumbing to some hiking bug. Somebody warned me about it; once a hiker always a hiker. All the pain I felt after my first hiking experience will not stop me from doing it again. I'm told it's called the sweet pain; and that sweet pain is very addictive! So yes, I have another hike planned in a few days time. Oh and let me take this opportunity to invite you for the hike, if you would like to come, send me a message via "contact me" on this blog.

So a few of my friends are really interested with the upcoming hike and they have been asking me what they need to do to prepare for the same. Now, I'm no expert but having been up the hills as a pure amateur, I think I can give you a few tips. These tips are based entirely on my personal experience and in any way may not be generic or suitable for you but they will definitely give you some pointers. So;

Tip 1: Prepare Physically

You need to have been exercising for about 2 - 3 weeks to be able to tackle some of the inclines and the terrain. Without proper body and muscle preparations, your hiking peers may have to arrange for an ambulance for you after the first 30 minutes! Yes, 30 minutes. Remember you will be hiking for close to 5 hours or more with only brief breaks. So be prepared as the scouts so appropriately remind us.

Tip 2: Time

Start your hikes early in the morning before the sun comes up. You will be less physically drained in the cold as opposed to the scorching sun. Pay attention to your turn around time, this will determine your walking speed. However, walk at a comfortable pace to avoid injury.

Tip 3: Safety

Be Safe always. Research about the area you will hike and arrange for security e.g. wardens etc to hike with you. You never know; there are people in this world who are up to no good! 

Tip 4: Dress Code

Now for sure you will not need your make up kit and stilettos ;). Dress warmly/lightly and comfortably depending on the weather. Get proper hiking shoes or comfortable sneakers with good sole padding and warm socks. Reflector jackets may also come in handy. Avoid heavy clothing - you can get something warm that isn't heavy for sure.

Carry a hat and always wear sunscreen. Sunglasses would be a great addition to your wardrobe of the day. Since it can get too chilly, gloves would be a must. If you can, get a thermal under layer for your torso. Wear Knee and ankle support

For dress code, my advice would be, be comfortable.

Tip 5: Light Luggage

Key word here is Light! Do not carry heavy, unnecessary luggage especially for shorter hikes. A bottle of water, some energy boost snack or fruits will do. Every kilo you add to your luggage decreases your success levels.

Tip 6: Things to Bring

Always carry a hiking staff or walking stick [a simple broom stick would do]. You can purchase one from the supermarkets. Also carry a snack and some drinking water.  A camera for those memorable moments you would like to capture. Binoculars to see that which you normal eye cannot quite see. 

Ngong Hills -Overlooking Kiserian Town

Tip 7: Yes you Can

There are moments out there when you feel like the next step you make will surely kill you! Remain positive for yes you can make that step and many more. Be optimistic and rely on your hiking friends for support and encouragement. 

Tip 8: FUN

Remember to have lots of fun. Nothing brings so much joy than that on-top-of-the-world feeling. The sense of achievement and more so the number of calories you have burnt climbing are worth celebration. So have a blast. 

 These are just but a few tips. 

Happy Hiking.

DN