Porter found dead on Mt Kenya

The search of a porter who went missing in December 2025 has ended in tragedy after his body was discovered on Friday off trail on Mount Kenya, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has confirmed.

KWS said Samuel Macharia Wanjohi went missing while on a trek on Mount Kenya.

Wanjohi was reported missing on December 23, 2025, while trekking along the Sirimon–Shipton route in Mt Kenya National Park.

His body was located off-trail on Friday in Hinde Valley, at an altitude of about 4,300 metres.

As soon as the report was received of a missing person, KWS activated its Mountain Search and Rescue Unit, “in line with its mandate to ensure visitor safety and emergency response within protected mountain ecosystems.”.

“A formal report was also filed at Chogoria Police Station (OB No. 30/24/2/2025),” KWS said.

The agency launched a large-scale, multi-agency search involving experienced rangers, the specialised Mountain Search and Rescue Team, aerial surveillance, and extensive ground operations.

Teams searched key areas including Shipton Camp, Austrian Hut, Mackinder’s Valley, Sendeyo, Hinde Valley, Mintos, the Timau Route, and nearby zones.

The operation continued despite challenging conditions, including extreme weather, rugged terrain, and poor visibility.

KWS worked closely with the National Police Service throughout the search. Local mountain guides, porters, family members, and members of the mountain community also gave valuable support. Their bravery and teamwork played a key role in the efforts.

Sadly, the 17-day search ended with the discovery of Wanjohi’s body.

“Regrettably, Wanjohi’s body was located at Hinde Valley on January 9, 2026, at an altitude of approximately 4,300 metres above sea level,” KWS said in a Saturday statement.

KWS expressed deep regret at the loss of life but said it remains fully committed to protecting visitors in Kenya’s protected mountain landscapes and continues to strengthen mountain safety, emergency preparedness, and coordinated emergency response mechanisms.

KWS has offered its sincere condolences to Wanjohi’s family, friends, fellow porters, guides, and the wider Mt Kenya mountain community during this difficult time.