10to4_Programme_2026_FINAL by Mount Kenya Trust

The TropiC AiR 10to4 2026 Event Programme

For the forests, the water, and the wild: Where trails meet conservation: Protecting Mount Kenya together

Nanyuki | Kenya

ops@tropicairkenya.com

www.tropicairkenya.com

Pedalling to protect what matters

We’re delighted to welcome you back to the spectacular slopes of Mount Kenya and the surrounding conservancies for another unforgettable edition of the 10to4. Whether you’re lining up at the start, cheering on from the sidelines, or soaking up the atmosphere in the race village, this weekend promises adventure, community, and purpose at every turn.

For over two decades, the 10to4 has been far more than a mountain bike race. It is a powerful platform for conservation, uniting riders, partners, and supporters in protecting Kenya’s most important water tower. By taking part, you are directly supporting the Mount Kenya Trust (MKT), a Kenyan not-for-pro t organisation dedicated to safeguarding Mount Kenya’s forests, wildlife, water resources, and the communities that depend on them. This iconic mountain provides diverse and uniquely valuable ecosystem services to millions of people and is home to nearly a third of Kenya’s elephant population.

What’s new for 2026? Meet the SWIFT—a fast, challenging race for aspiring young competitive riders—and CLAMBER, an exciting new route for runners and walkers that expands the 10to4 beyond the bike and into an action-packed weekend for all.

As you pass through the varying landscapes on the slopes of Mount Kenya — up rugged high-altitude slopes in the National Reserve, down through large arable farms, along local community villages and farmland, into Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve and then Borana Conservancy — we hope you feel connected to this incredible environment and its crucial role in Kenya’s future.

Thank you to our 2026 sponsors, landowners, partners, many, many volunteers, and riders. Your energy, passion, and participation make this event — and the conservation work it supports — truly special.

Gear up for an unforgettable adventure, embrace the highs and lows of Africa’s second-highest peak, and most importantly — enjoy the ride!

The TropiC AiR 10to4 2026

Race information

EXTREME - The ultimate test for elite mountain bikers. This two-day challenge combines the toughest routes: Hardcore on Day 1 and the iconic Classic on Day 2. Designed for experienced riders ready to push their limits. Approx. 75 km (Day 1) + 60 km (Day 2).

WILD - A bold two-day adventure with a mix of terrain.

Perfect for riders who want more challenge than the Classic alone. On Day 1, the Wild route traverses Borana Conservancy’s wild landscapes; on Day 2 Wild riders join the Classic. Approx. 55 km (Day 1) + 60km (Day 2).

CLASSIC - The flagship 10to4 experience.

Held on Day 2, the Classic starts high on Mount Kenya’s northern slopes and winds down through forests, plains and wildlife country to Borana Race Village over about 60 km. It’s the signature 10to4 route.

RUSH - Fast, fun and exhilarating.

Also on Day 2 alongside the Classic, the Rush is a slightly shorter and spirited ride of about 57km — ideal for enthusiastic riders looking for challenge with a bit less distance.

SWIFT - A new bike race for 2026!

A fresh entry-level competition for riders who have outgrown the Slide but may not be ready for the Rush. Covering about 39km, the Swift follows the same route as the Slide but is geared toward teenage and competitive riders. Solo riders must be 12+ (younger riders may enter with an adult by agreement with the Event Committee only).

SLIDE - A scenic and enjoyable adventure ride.

A gentle, pleasant 39 km ride on Day 2, the Slide is perfect for those wanting a relaxed cycling experience through Mount Kenya’s landscapes. Riders of all abilities are welcome, and children 8-11 years old may ride with an accompanying adult.

CLAMBER - Brand-new run for 2026!

For the rst time, runners can take part in the 10to4 event with a 10km foot race across scenic Borana Conservancy. Designed for runners and walkers aged 12+, the Clamber includes some climbs and beautiful views, with ranger support and water points along the way.

E-BIKES

E-bikes can enter the Wild, Classic or Rush races and will compete in a separate category. Maximum allowed battery size is 625Wh and motor size 250W; batteries are sealed at the start.

Race schedule Race schedule

Monday 16th – Thursday 19th February Pre-Event Check-In

Monday 16th February

12:00 noon – 4:30 pm — ALL RACES pre-event check-in @ Mount Kenya Trust O ce

Tuesday 17th & Wednesday 18th February

10:00am – 4:30pm — ALL RACES pre-event check-in @ The Nook, Nanyuki

Thursday 19th February

12:00noon – 6:00pm — ALL RACES pre-event check-in @ Ngare Ndare Forest Gate (Ethi)

From 3:00pm — Mini 10to4 River Route open for all riders (fun rides / casual laps, time trials TBC)

7:00pm — EXTREME & WILD Race Brie ng @ Borana Race Village

7:30pm-8:00pm — EXTREME & WILD pre-event check-in @ Borana Race Village

8:00 pm — Borana Conservancy entrance gates close (late arrivals may not enter)

Friday 20th February DAY 1: Extreme & Wild @ Borana

6:30am — EXTREME & WILD pre-event check-in opens @ Borana Race Village

7:00am — EXTREME & WILD Race Brie ng

7:30am — EXTREME Race START

7:35am — WILD Race START

7:40 am — CLAMBER Race START

10:00am – 7:30pm — ALL RACES pre-event check-in & bike drop @ Ngare Ndare Forest Gate (Ethi)

10:00am – 4:00pm — EXTREME and WILD bike drop @ Borana Race Village

7:00pm — ALL RACES Race Brie ng @ Borana Race Village

8:00pm — Borana Conservancy entrance gates close (late arrivals may not enter)

Race schedule Race schedule

Saturday 21st February DAY 2: All Races @ Kisima START Line

5:15am — Bike Drop Riders meet @ Borana Race Village

6:30am – 8:00am — ALL RACES pre-event check-in @ Kisima

8:00am — All Races Race Brie ng

Start Times:

8:30am — EXTREME Race

8:35am — WILD Race

8:40am — CLASSIC Race

8:45am — RUSH Race

8:50am — SWIFT Race

9:00am — SLIDE Race

Late afternoon — ALL RACES Prize Giving

8:00pm — Borana Conservancy entrance gates close (late arrivals may not enter)

Sunday 22nd February — DAY 3: MINI 10to4 @ Borana Race Village

Mini 10to4 Schedule:

7:30am — MINI 10to4 ENDURO pre-event check-in

7:50am — MINI 10to4 ENDURO Race Brie ng

8:00am — MINI ENDURO Race START

8:15am — MINI 10to4 HOG, DASH, SCRAMBLE pre-event check-in

8:45am — HOG / DASH / SCRAMBLE Race Brie ng

9:00am — MINI HOG Race START

9:05am — MINI DASH Race START

9:10am — MINI SCRAMBLE Race START

11:00am — MINI 10to4 Prize Giving

4:00pm — Borana Race Village closes

Race schedule Race schedule

Mini Rider Pledge ��

I ride with courage, protect nature, take care of my bike, and look out for my friends!

ThE SOUTHERN CROSS SAFARIS

mini 10to4: sunday 22nd Feb

The Southern Cross Safaris Mini 10to4 races will take place on Sunday, 22nd February in the morning at Borana Race Village, featuring four fun and age-appropriate races:

ENDURO – 13.5 km (ages 8–12)

HOG – 9 km (ages 6–12)

DASH – 4.5 km (ages 6–8)

SCRAMBLE – 1 km (ages 4–6)

Parent admin & pre-race check-in:

All riders must complete waiver and medical forms, and collect their child’s bike badge and goody bag before race day at any of the o cial check-in locations during the week (including Nanyuki, Ethi Check-In, or Borana Race Village). Check-in is also available on race morning before the briefing—but you cannot register on the day of the race.

Race day basics:

Fuel the kids with a good breakfast and plenty of hydration, and don’t forget a helmet — no helmet means no start!

Start times:

ENDURO: 8:00 AM (arrive early as this race starts one hour ahead of the others)

HOG: 9:00 AM

DASH: 9:05 AM

SCRAMBLE: 9:10 AM

Please ensure you’re at the Mini 10to4 start line 30 minutes before your race to avoid missing your turn.

68 y e a r olds S C RAMBLE1km 46 y e a r olds

T he S o u th er n C r o ss S a f a r is Mi n i 10 t o4 a t B o r ana R a c e V i l l a g e SUN D A Y 22 n d F e b EN D U R O1 3 .5 km (3 l o o p s ) 81 2 y e a r olds HOG9 km (2 l o o p s ) 61 2 y e a r olds D ASH4.5 km (1 l o o p)

Mini 10to4 Fun Facts

Did you know?

Mount Kenya is home to almost one-third of Kenya’s elephants — keep your eyes open, you might spot elephant tracks along the course! Tree power!

The Mount Kenya Trust has planted over 2 million indigenous trees to help protect forests, rivers, and wildlife. You’re a conservation hero!

By racing today, you’re helping protect Mount Kenya’s forests, animals, and communities. Every pedal counts!

Mountain magic

Mount Kenya is Africa’s second-highest mountain and supplies water to millions of people across the country.

Rare and special

The Mountain Bongo is one of Kenya’s rarest animals — and conservation work here is helping bring them back to Mount Kenya.

Water wonder

The rivers that start on Mount Kenya help grow food, make electricity, and provide clean water for families far away.

Helmet heroes

Wearing a helmet makes you a true Mini 10to4 champion — safety rst, speed second!

Wildlife highways

Some of the trails you’re riding today are also wildlife highways, used by animals to move safely between forests.

our Route partners

The 10to4 would simply not be possible without the incredible support of our local partners and hosts. Over the course of the event, riders pass Mount Kenya National Park and Reserve, Kisima Farm, Marania Farm, Ol Donyo Farm, Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve, and — extraordinary landscapes that are usually

The event opens up rare access to these wildlife-rich regions, home to signiﬁcant rhino and elephant populations. While a portion of the funds raised is directed to Borana Conservancy and the Ngare Ndare Forest Trust to support their vital conservation projects, this represents only a fraction

We are hugely grateful to the Kenya Wildlife Service and Kenya Forest Service, who not only waive entry fees but also provide security along the route. This support is made possible through the year-round work and partnership of the Mount Kenya Trust. Lewa Wildlife Conservancy also plays a key role, assisting in multiple ways including security, logistics

All participating farms, conservancies, reserves, and the Mount Kenya Trust deploy their security and maintenance teams before and during the

Our headline sponsor, Tropic Air has your back from above — sponsoring a helicopter throughout the event to monitor both cyclists and wildlife, and Cottage Hospital provide essential ﬁrst aid support along the route. We’re grateful to Rhino Ark for lending radios to keep all Water Stops connect-

For all routes and in particular for the Clamber and Mini10to4, a special thank you to the Wild Rides team, who have spent weeks clearing and

THE AMENITIES @ RACE VILLAGE

Whether you’re a competitor or a supporter, there’s plenty to enjoy at the Race Village (see the map at the end of the programme).

Rusty Nail will be serving food and drinks all weekend, including early breakfast before racing, alongside Brown’s Food, Delia’s Ice Cream (ice creams and toasties), and Dormans Co ee, who’ll be at the Day 2 start line and back in the village keeping ca eine levels high. DJ Babs will be on the decks bringing the Race Village to life.

The Southern Cross Play Area will keep kids entertained (please note children remain the responsibility of parents). Antonia’s Kitchen & Dormans will provide tasty pre-race snacks and hot co ee at the Saturday Startline.

For recovery, Lotus Wellness Spa will be o ering professional preand post-sports massages — booking recommended. All essentials are covered too, including toilets, showers, a medical tent, and shelter provided by Cunningham’s Tents.

our waterstops We love you!

Huge thanks to the volunteers, rangers, and Water Stop hosts keeping you fuelled, motivated, and safe out on the course. Give them a wave as you ride past — total legends, every one of them!

Arijuju

Arijiju is a beautiful, private home in the game-rich Kenyan Highlands with rare and truly wild luxuries.

Borana Lodge

Set against a beautiful hillside with an organic design and panoramic views, by staying at the lodge guests make a direct contribution to securing conservation integrity for future generations.

HM CLAUSE

A rst-time Water Stop sponsor and global leader in vegetable seeds, HM CLAUSE supports sustainable agriculture with smart, research-driven solutions that help growers thrive worldwide.

ICEA LION

Making their 10to4 debut as a Water Stop sponsor, ICEA LION is a leading East African insurance and nancial services group backing wellbeing, community, and a resilient future — on and o the bike.

Laragai House

This beautiful house is located in the Borana Hills area of north-central Kenya. It is a high-quality private house rental, o ering a wide range of activities, notably including excellent horse-back safari.

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

The Lewa Wildlife Conservancy works as a model and catalyst for the conservation of wildlife and its habitat and is connected to Mt Kenya through the MKT elephant corridor.

Marania Farm

Arable and beef farm hosting the MKT elephant corridor and Marania Wildlife Guards ranger team.

Ol Donyo Farm

Arable farm based in Timau - always a huge supporter of the 10to4 and a critical link between Mount Kenya and Ngare Ndare forest.

Sirai House

Located in Borana Conservancy at the food of Mount Kenya a magni cent private home with staggering views in every direction. A whole range of game viewing and activities on hand.

Tambuzi Farm

Tambuzi is a ower farm that is driven not just for pro t but also with a goal of having bene cial social impact on all its activities.

Well Hung Butcher

WHB is a state of the art butchery and abattoir in Northern Kenya. All of our livestock is selected from farms and ranches across Laikipia.

Wild Rides

Based around Kenya, Wild Rides o ers just what it says on the tin - wild e-bike cycle rides out in the bush, led by Charlie Dyer and his team. Experience true wilderness on these e-bike adventures!

RACE RULES

No 1: A correctly tting cycle helmet MUST be worn when riding on any stage. No 2: Bikes should be t for purpose i.e. a MOUNTAIN bike in good mechanical repair. No 3: A full disclaimer MUST be signed and exchanged for your race number.

No 4: Ensure that you are self-su cient in the event of a at tire, or other technical or personal issues.

No 5: Cycling gloves, padded shorts, water bottle, cycle pump, spare tubes, cycle repair tools, mobile phone and sunscreen are considered ESSENTIAL items. Please secure your phone!

No 6: Ride of way – This concept applies to all mountain bikers around the world. If you are walking on a section because it is too technical or you are tired, you must give way to those riding. If you are behind someone pushing, simply ask them for 'ride of way'.

No 7: Give way – If there is a faster rider behind you, nd a safe place to let them pass. Shortcuts are not permitted.

No 8: O ensive language is prohibited.

No 9: Disquali cations & penalties - Riders may be disquali ed at the discretion of the organisers for any one or more of the following reasons including, but not limited to, riding at any point on any stage without a helmet, bad sportsmanship or malicious behaviour and/or damaging the environment.

No 10: Air evacuation cover by AMREF - the Flying Doctor - or rescue.co is COMPULSORY. In the event of an accident, all medical costs must be covered by the participant as per the signed disclaimer.

No 11: Attach your bike number to the FRONT of your bike and do not swap bikes. No 12: ALL children aged under 12 years competing in Saturday's races must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Any child going through a water stop or across the nish line alone will be disquali ed, as will the adult who should have been with them.

Please check your race map and colour. Critical junctions are manned by marshals wearing high-vis vests, minor junctions are marked with signs and/or white chalk arrows, white chalk blobs or tape to guide you. There are motorcycle route openers, motorcycle roving monitors and a sweeper vehicle with a medic.

Beware of tra c on public roads, especially at the crossing of the main tarmac road at Kisima.

BE CONSTANTLY ALERT FOR WILD ANIMALS ESPECIALLY ELEPHANTS, RHINO AND BUFFALO WHICH ARE EVERYWHERE.

Wildlife rangers will be patrolling the known hazardous areas and will guide you in the event of immediate animal presence. For your own safety, their instructions must be followed WITHOUT QUESTION.

PSSST!

All those climbs and sore legs? Totally worth it. So, Let’s dive in!

Borana Lodge is a Global Escosphere Retreat, accredited for our commitment to positively transforming the well-being of the planet and people.

All retained earnings from tourism are committed to the sustainable conservation of habitat and wildlife along with building local livelihoods. www.borana.com | bookings@borana.co.ke