Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is there a favorable season to come train in Iten - Home of Champions ?

There is no specific season to travel to Iten. The months of October to April are usually slightly warmer (23 to 27 degrees at day time) as the other months of the year (17 to 22 degrees). However, all months are suitable for training and guests are usually staying at The Swiss Side all year round.

How to reach Iten from Nairobi ?

From Nairobi JKIA, it is advised to book a domestic flight to Eldoret Airport (ELD). From there, our driver picks you up. Just let us know your time of arrival and we will organize everything for you.

Are bedsheets & linen available at The Swiss Side ?

All beddings, towels and cosmetics (body & hand soap) are supplied at the camp. Just come with your luggage and any personal belonging you might need.

Is the camp opened to non-professional runners ?

The camp is actually welcoming more amateur runners than professional runners over the year. There is no minimum level to come in Iten and we even welcome non-runners. At your arrival, a local runner-guide can show you the surroundings of Iten for your first days of camp, and introduce you to the local running traditions. Reach out before your stay if the runner-guide service interests you.

How are trainings organized once I am in Iten ? Is there a training plan for all runners ?

Many runners join our camp with their own training plan. On demand, a local coach can be organized, as well as a runner-guide to join you during your trainings. During the week, a total of 3 gym classes (Monday, Wednesday & Friday) are organized within the camp. In general, athletes staying at Swiss Side communicate to share runs together, in particular during the long-runs in Moiben, the track session in Kamariny Stadium and the well-known kenyan fartlek that take place every Tuesday and Thursday.

How long is the best duration for an altitude running camp in Iten ?

The duration depends on your physical level and goals. In general, a camp from 3 weeks to 6 weeks gives the best outcome. These durations allow a good acclimatisation and enough time to accomplish several quality sessions. Shorter duration of stay might have less impact on your performances but will still give you an amazing opportunity to discover the kenyan culture in its fullest, especially through our 12-days training camp.

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Professional athletes are able to compete right after a camp and for amateur runners, we rather advise to travel back home from 6 weeks to 10 days prior your target. This will allow your body to overcompensate and eventually to make some additional quality sessions in low-altitude, with the benefits of the altitude. 

Where is the closest track from the camp ?

Kamariny Stadium is the closest track from the camp (1.8 km). Runners of the camp usually run there once to twice per week.

Do you offer family options ?

Yes we do. A special flat is actually designed to welcome families (1 kingsize bed + 1 single bed + 1 sofa bed). For younger children, it is possible to organize a baby-sitting while for older children, some activities like visits of an association and arts workshops can be organized daily. Iten is definitely an adventure to share as a family!

What should I bring in my luggage ?

Our travel guide details all important items to bring in your luggage before your camp. It can include donations for local runners and kids around.

Which languages are runners usually speaking at The Swiss Side ?

As our camp welcomes runners of up to 40 nationalities, the common language is English. However, several french-speaking runners from France, Belgium & Switzerland are staying in the camp, meaning you can be almost sure to have a french-speaking mate when coming. We also regularly welcome german & spanish speaking runners.

Can runners under 18 join the camp ?

Absolutely! To travel, this requires a signed letter from your legal representant only. Be sure that our team in Iten will take the best care of you during your stay. The youngest solo travel we welcomed was actually 14 years old.

I am planning to work remotely while training in Iten. How is the wifi in the camp ?

This is indeed possible and several runners are working remotely from our camp. The wifi is provided by Starlink (60 to 80 mbps to share with all users) which allow a good workflow for everyone.

Which currency and what amount should I carry with me ? 

The common currency in Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). We advise to withdraw an amount in KES when arriving in Nairobi JKIA, to be good for the rest of the stay. This amount can be from KES 10,000 to 20,000 depending on your needs. In your daily activities, it is advised to always have KES 100 to KES 500 in your pocket, which will allow you to take a motorbike, buy a soda, .... At The Swiss Side, all payment are made by card in USD (cashless system), which is possible with most international cards (VISA, Mastercard) at no fees for amounts under 200 USD.

How much does training at The Swiss Side costs ?

Rates varies from standard to peak season and depend on the options you opt for (half or full board, shared or private accommodation, recovery pack, etc.). You can account from 35 to 55 EUR per day for a full-board stay. These rates can evolve through time.

Are bike rental, cryo / sauna, massages, gym & safari services opened to anyone ?

Indeed, all our services of cryotherapy / sauna, gym, massages, bike rental & safaris can be accessed by anyone in Iten. The guests staying at The Swiss Side benefit of advantageous rates and some services are even included in the price paid for their stay.

How to access the ice bath and sauna if  I am not staying at The Swiss Side ?

Our spa (sauna & ice bath) can be accessed every day from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM & 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM. Anyone interested to use our spa can pass by our office located along the road, to subscribe for a single session, weekly, monthly and 10-entries accesses. More info here: https://www.theswissside.com/spa

Which excursions can be done around Iten ?

Our travel agency organizes trips in Iten and around: safaris in Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara, boat riding in Lake Baringo & Lake Naivasha, hikes in Torok Waterfalls, Kessup Waterfalls, Mount Elgon & Kakamega Forest, paragliding and culture immersion such as Nandi Hills Tea factory visit & a Coffee factory visit. All destinations will make your stay in Kenya memorable. More info here: https://www.theswissside.com/travels