29/06/2026
OLTEPESI NAKUTESEKA
I don't believe in sugar-coating rides. If a route is difficult, I'll tell you exactly how difficult it is before you commit. So before someone calls this ride "short," think thrice.
Oltepesi is the last decent trading centre on Magadi Road before you head towards Lake Magadi. Lake Magadi is probably the closest place to Nairobi that gives you a glimpse of what "hell on earth" might feel likeāall within a day's ride.
The journey starts off gently enough. First, conquer the RongaiāKiserian stretch before climbing to the famous Corner Baridi. The descent to Kisamis can be tricky, with crosswinds waiting to catch the unsuspecting Drop King. Resist the temptation to freewheel. A little braking and steady pedalling will keep you in full control as you navigate the section.
Soon you'll arrive at Olepolos, the famous nyama choma stop in Kajiado County. This is your last chance to make a sensible decision. Once you cross this point, you are fully committed to whatever Oltepesi has in store for you.
If you already know you're not ready for the legendary Chairman and Chairlady lung-buster climbs on the return journey, turn around here. There is absolutely no shame in itāyou'll thank yourself later.
The descent through the Maasai villages into Oltepesi is much friendlier to MTB and gravel bikes. If you're on a road bike, take it easy. The surface isn't particularly kind to skinny tyres, so descend with patience and caution.
Once you get to Oltepesi, eat well, refill every water bottle you have, and mentally prepare yourself. On the climb back, you will meet the famous Bird of Ng'ethe. By then, you'll understand exactly why Lucky Dube sung "Born to Suffer".
If you're a favourite child, a last-born, or a lover boy, I honestly don't know what you're looking for in Oltepesi.
This ride is therapy on two wheels. Whether you're dealing with stress, heartbreak, hard break, or just life in general, Oltepesi has a strange way of clearing your mind. By the time you're back, you'll have forgiven everyoneāincluding your ancestors.
If you've made it this far and you're still interested, then you're exactly the kind of person we're looking for.
RSVP here: https://forms.gle/M2pzvsLVWwhuJ2EE8
We'll use the responses to organise riders based on locality and preferred bus. You can also follow the responses here:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1RgD82MCIPEOQ4-1dU5ZsCGyorO0RI9avtwJVcgSrYxs/edit?gid=231606705
I can't wait to see you on one of our buses.
