KWS recovers body of tour guide who disappeared while trekking on Mt Kenya

In a statement issued on Friday, January 9, KWS said the body of Samuel Macharia Wanjohi was found off the Sirimon–Shipton route within Mount Kenya National Park at a high altitude in Hinde Valley.

“Kenya Wildlife Service regrets to report the loss of life of Mr. Samuel Macharia Wanjohi, whose body has been located,” KWS stated. 

Wanjohi was reported missing on December 23, 2025, while trekking along the Sirimon–Shipton route. Following the report, KWS activated its Mountain Search and Rescue Unit in line with its mandate to ensure visitor safety within protected mountain ecosystems.

A formal report was also filed at Chogoria Police Station under OB number 30/24/2/2025.

KWS mounted a multi-agency search and rescue operation involving experienced rangers, the Mountain Search and Rescue Team, aerial surveillance and extensive ground patrols.

The search covered several areas including Shipton Camp, Austrian Hut, Mackinder’s Valley, Sendeyo, Hinde Valley, Mintos, the Timau Route and surrounding regions.

According to KWS, the operation was carried out under extremely difficult conditions marked by harsh weather, rugged terrain and poor visibility.

The agency revealed that it worked closely with the National Police Service and received support from mountain guides and porters, including members of the local mountain community and the deceased’s family.

Wanjohi’s body was later located on January 9 at an altitude of approximately 4,300 metres above sea level in Hinde Valley.

The agency conveyed its condolences to Wanjohi’s family, friends, guides and the wider Mount Kenya community.

"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," KWS noted.