Our Story

How a love for the trail became a community for the bold

Elyjoy Maina - Founder of Boots and Banters
Elyjoy Maina

Where Passion Meets Purpose

Elyjoy's journey with the outdoors started long before Boots & Banters existed. Growing up surrounded by Kenya's incredible landscapes, she developed a deep respect for the wild, from the misty forests of the Aberdares to the towering peaks of Mount Kenya.

After years of organizing informal hikes with friends and strangers alike, she noticed something missing. Kenya had hiking groups, Yes, but they were either too rigid or too casual. Nothing combined the professionalism hikers deserved with the warmth and laughter that made every trail memorable.

"I wanted to build something where safety wasn't an afterthought, and where strangers could become friends before the summit."

In 2026, Boots & Banters was born. What started as a small group of nine curious hikers on Mt. Kilimambogo has grown into a community of adventurers, storytellers, and trail-lovers who believe the best view is always better shared.

Today, Elyjoy leads every expedition with years of hands-on trail experience, and a genuine love for bringing people together. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned trekker, she makes sure you feel welcome, safe, and most importantly part of the story.

Our Mission & Vision

The principles that guide every step we take

Our Invitation

Step Into The Story.

Our Experience

Every Trail. Every Laugh. Every Memory.

Our Commitment

Safety First, Great Moments Always.

What We Stand For

The values that shape every adventure

Safety First

Experienced guide, first aid kits, and risk assessments on every single trip.

Nature Respect

Leave No Trace. We protect the beautiful places we explore.

Inclusivity

All levels welcome. There's a trail for every type of adventurer.

Banter

Life's too short for boring hikes. We laugh, we joke, we adventure.

Our Journey So Far

Milestones that shaped Boots & Banters

Pre-2026

The Spark

Years of informal hikes and trail experiences across Kenya.

2026

Boots & Banters Born

A simple mission: hike safely, hike together, hike often.

August 2026

First Hike: Mt. Kilimambogo

10+ hikers, a perfect summit, and a community formed.

September 2026

Three Falls Chase

Karuru, Magura & Chania — three waterfalls, one unforgettable day.

November 2026

Growing Stronger

Kimakia Waterfall and Rurimeria hikes open for booking.

The Future

Many Trails Ahead

More hikes, more stories, more chapters to write together.

Ready to Be Part of the Story?

Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned adventurer, there's a trail waiting for you.