NGARE NDARE : BASIC ROCK CLIMBING COURSE

OVERVIEW
The Ngare Ndare Forest is a lush indigenous forest at the foothills of Mt. Kenya. Azure pools glisten at the bottom of waterfalls and 200 year old trees stretch into the canopy supporting a rich variety of bird and animal life. The forest is a vital corridor that links the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy to Mount Kenya, and one which elephants have been using for centuries.

On the outskirts of the conservancy is a rocky outcrop, which has been developed for rock climbing. The climbing is easy to moderate on good quality rock and is perfectly suited to any novice or intermediate climber. This site offers a great chance to familiarize one’s self with the basic techniques of safe climbing in a top rope situation.

There is also a sport climbing option available at this crag, where you can get an introduction to lead climbing.
The crag also offers the perfect opportunity for abseiling. Perfect for Kids parties, corporate, and family groups.

TRIP DESCRIPTION:

How long?
The Full day trip starts at 9am and should end at about 4.00pm.

Prerequisites ?
Novice or intermediate climbers.

Overview
• Longest climb: 15 meters
• Minimum age: 7 Years Old.
• Equipment: we provide you with specialty climbing gear
• Transport: Rate is inclusive of Transport.
• Experience Required: None, but a reasonable level of fitness

Description
A climbing session, depending on the duration, typically begins with an introduction to equipment and the general concept of top rope climbing. Once the technique of belaying and basic knot tying has been accomplished you will then begin climbing. There are a number of different routes at this site which vary in difficulty, which makes for ideal learning conditions.

ITINERARY
9 AM to 9:30 AM MEET AND GREET/EQUIPMENT
We plan to meet at the Climbing Wall or a pre-arranged location within Nanyuki town. After introductions are made, we head to Ngare Ndare. Once at Ngare Ndare,you are required to sign in and prove purchase of ticket. A ranger will accompany us to the bottom of the hill about 150meters from the car park.

9:30 AM to 10:30 AM BELAY INTRODUCTION AND WARM UP
After the steep walk up, which can be considered part of the warm up we get started with some traversing. This provides everyone the opportunity to practice good climbing movement ready for the real routes. Once everyone is warm and depending on the group level, we run a belay and lowering coaching session.

10:30 AM to 1 PM FULL MORNING OF ROCK CLIMBING
A range of routes will have been set up, generally everyone will pair up or work in 3’s.Everyone can chop and change routes as they wish. If all the climbs have been done quickly the guide will set up more routes or the guide will provide added challenges. The climbing is easy to moderate, novice groups will find several routes challenging. The climbing is fun and the views from the top are stunning. The atmosphere is very relaxed, and breaks can be taken in the shade.

2 PM to 4:30 PM AFTERNOON CLIMBING AND ABSEILING
There are several options available for the afternoon depending on the group dynamic.
There is an opportunity to set up a group abseil which kids can do as many times as they like or an opportunity to learn Sport climbing. Sport climbing uses a series of bolts drilled in to the rock. There is a lead and a second, the lead will climb and use the bolts to keep safe on their way to the top.
Or they group can take on some of harder routes at the crag for an added challenge.
All in all this is a fun day climbing.

ACCOMMODATION
Many of our guests who enjoy climbing at Ngare Ndare will be staying at one of the surrounding safari lodges. There are several ranches and conservancies nearby to Ngare Ndare. These include, Olepangi Farm, Borana and Lewa, amongst others further afield. Rock climbing at Ngare Ndare can arranged through the lodge provider.
Alternatively, Nanyuki town is less than an hour’s drive with a variety of accommodation options.

EQUIPMENT
African Ascents provides all technical climbing equipment. All you need are your personal items. If you have any of your own climbing equipment please let us know so that we can prepare accordingly.

WHAT TO BRING
• Sun hat
• Sun cream
• Sports clothing and footwear
• Day sack
• Drinks bottle