The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has confirmed the tragic discovery of Samuel Macharia Wanjohi, an experienced porter who went missing on Mount Kenya on December 23, 2025.
His body was discovered on January 9, 2026, after an intensive 18-day multi-agency search operation across the challenging terrain of Mount Kenya National Park.
Macharia, who possessed 15 years of experience navigating the mountain, was reported missing while trekking along the Sirimon-Shipton route.
Immediately upon receiving the report, KWS activated its Mountain Search and Rescue Unit, initiating a comprehensive search effort. A formal report was also lodged at the Chogoria Police Station.
The search spanned vast and rugged areas, including Shipton Camp, Austrian Hut, Mackinder’s Valley, Sendeyo, Hinde Valley, Mintos, and the Timau Route.
Despite extreme weather conditions, difficult terrain, and poor visibility, experienced rangers, the Mountain Search and Rescue Team, and aerial surveillance units tirelessly combed the mountain.
KWS worked in close coordination with the National Police Service and received crucial assistance from mountain guides, porters, family members, and the local mountain community.
Macharia’s body was ultimately discovered off the Marania trail at Hinde Valley, at an altitude of approximately 4,300 meters above sea level.
KWS expressed profound regret over the loss and extended its deepest condolences to Macharia’s family, friends, fellow porters, guides, and the entire Mount Kenya mountain community.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing mountain safety, emergency preparedness, and coordinated response mechanisms within Kenya’s protected high-altitude environments.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the inherent dangers of high-altitude trekking and the critical importance of adhering to safety protocols.
