The Mt. Kenya Epik is a new 6-day MTB stage race throughout the foothills of Mt. Kenya, and it’s hard to imagine a better way to experience riding in Africa! The course will cover 500km “through bush, wilderness, wildlife and villages,” according to the race organizers. On the final day, riders will be joined by runners, with the finish located nearly 10,000 feet above sea level.
Director of the Mt. Kenya Epik, Julie Wahome, says, “the Epik’s vision is to change the lifestyle of youth and Kenyans by harnessing and enlarging existing platforms like that of the Safari Simbaz cycling team, of whom Chris Froome was a member as a young boy, as well as preserving the Mt. Kenya region through sport and youth mentorship.”
Like other stage races we’ve covered recently, the Mt. Kenya Epik requires riders to register in 2-person teams. The early bird price is $1,947 USD per person, which includes the race entry fee, 5 nights of camping, food, and support along the route. Register soon though–prices jump to $2,483 USD per person after the early bird period.
An organized stage race like the Mt. Kenya Epik seems like a great way to mountain bike in Kenya without having to worry about a lot of logistics along the way. Just show up with a mountain bike and ride!
