Missing Mt Kenya guide found dead in Hinde Valley

The operation was supported by aerial surveillance and involved experienced rangers

The Kenya Wildlife Service has confirmed the death of a mountain guide who went missing on Mt Kenya late last year, bringing a weeks-long, multi-agency search and rescue operation to a tragic close.

In a statement issued on Saturday, KWS said the body of Samuel Macharia Wanjohi was located on January 9 in Hinde Valley, at an altitude of approximately 4,300 metres above sea level, within Mt Kenya National Park.

“KWS regrets to report the loss of life of Samuel Macharia Wanjohi, whose body has been located,” the agency said, describing the discovery as the outcome of an intensive operation conducted in difficult and hazardous conditions.

Wanjohi, a porter and guide, was reported missing on December 23, 2025, while trekking along the Sirimon–Shipton route, one of the most commonly used but challenging trails on Africa’s second-highest mountain.

His disappearance triggered an immediate response from KWS, in line with its mandate to ensure visitor and worker safety within protected mountain ecosystems.

“Immediately upon receipt of the report on December 23, 2025, KWS activated its Mountain Search and Rescue Unit,” the statement said, adding that a formal missing person report was lodged at Chogoria police station on December 24, 2025.

The search effort brought together multiple agencies and local expertise.

KWS worked in close coordination with the National Police Service and received support from experienced mountain guides and porters, including members of Wanjohi’s family and the wider Mt Kenya mountain community.

“Their courage, resilience and solidarity were instrumental in the search efforts,” KWS said.

According to the agency, search teams conducted extensive ground operations across several high-altitude zones, including Shipton Camp, Austrian Hut, Mackinder’s Valley, Sendeyo, Hinde Valley, Mintos, the Timau Route and surrounding areas.

The operation was supported by aerial surveillance and involved experienced rangers and specialised members of the Mountain Search and Rescue Team.A KWS ranger during the aerial surveillence

KWS aircraft used in the aerial surveillence

The agency noted that the search was carried out despite extreme weather conditions, rugged terrain and poor visibility, factors that often complicate rescue missions on Mt Kenya, particularly during the end-of-year period when weather patterns can shift rapidly.

Following the recovery of the body off-trail at high altitude, KWS reiterated its commitment to strengthening mountain safety measures and emergency preparedness.

“Kenya Wildlife Service remains committed to safeguarding lives within Kenya’s protected mountain landscapes and continues to strengthen mountain safety, emergency preparedness, and coordinated emergency response mechanisms,” the statement said.

KWS conveyed condolences to Wanjohi’s family, colleagues and the broader mountain community during this time of grief.

Mt Kenya National Park is a major destination for local and international climbers, with porters and guides forming a critical part of its tourism ecosystem.