Mystery of tour guide who disappeared in Mt Kenya hiking expedition

On December 23, Samuel Macharia vanished into thin air as he guided two Japanese visitors in scaling the second-highest mountain in Africa. 

Macharia, a veteran guide with 15 years’ experience, was in a group of seven people who were climbing the mountain on December 23 but went missing before reaching the summit. 

The team of guides, porters and the two Japanese guests had left Nanyuki Town in the morning, their eyes set on conquering the snowcapped peak. 

The team gained entry at Mt Kenya National Park Sirimon Gate but between Old Moses Camp and Shiptons Camp, the unexpected happened. 

Macharia disappeared along the way, leaving his personal belonging. This first created an impression of a premeditated disappearance act.

In the last 15 days, family members, have received support from friends who have braved the tough terrain and harsh weather for days, as they search for Macharia. 

Despite the obstacles, relatives believe their kin is not dead. They hope he is safe in the outlying villages and will one day resurface. 

Macharia’s kin are also accusing the Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) rescuers of not providing enough logistical support in the mission. KWS has however said it is working with the family and police in tracing Macharia.

With every passing day, family and friends of Macharia remain optimistic that they would find the missing mountain guide either dead or alive. This, they hope, would end the anxiety they have been enduring for two weeks.