Embu hotel where Richard Branson had breakfast before scaling Mt Kenya

Richard Branson poses for a photo with Mercy Mugo and Murugi Kariuki at Izaak Walto Inn.

As expected of such high-level but private visits, there were no "official" photo ops, though Branson agreed to some photos with the few whom he mingled with and served him.

However, the task of ensuring that Branson and his team enjoyed their brief stay at the hotel fell on Timothy Mutua, the executive chef. Like other members of staff, he had little time to waste, having got the brief about Branson's arrival only 20 minutes prior.

"We always make it perfect for all our guests but with the sudden communication you must be extra keen on the service," notes Mutua.

The family-run Izaak Walton Inn was built in the 1930s as a tourist getaway on the Embu-Meru highway. Due to its prime location, it is popular with tourists seeking to hike Mt Kenya.