Climbing Mount Kenya: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

Rising to 5.199 meters above sea level, Mount Kenya is the highest peak in the country and the second highest in Africa. Conveniently located just 150 kilometers north-northeast of Nairobi, it is also pretty easy to get to.

The massif is divided into three different summits: Batian (5.199 meters), Nelion (5.188 meters) and Lenana Peak (4.985 meters) Batian is the crown jewel of the mountain and the most sought after of the three summits, but is also the toughest, requiring advanced mountaineering skills.

The southeast route up Nelion is the most commonly taken route as it offers stunning views over the massif and surroundings and only requires intermediate mountaineering skills. Both ascents require a high degree of physical fitness, however.

Leanna Peak requires the lowest level of climbing ability and, as a result, is popular among more novice climbers as well as those who would rather spend more time hiking around the base of the mountain through the national park.

Regardless of which of these summits you climb, expect to spend at least a week doing so, with most guides opting to do it in 10 days or more.

Stunning scenery

Located within the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mount Kenya National Park, the lofty summit boasts some sublime scenery. Any ascent to the top takes you through the plains of the Sarengeti, thick forests, several bands of vegetation and over a glacier. The views of these landscapes and surroundings are incredible every step of the way.

Get off the beaten path

Receiving only about 16,000 visitors each year, Mount Kenya is a lot less populated than other mountain slopes around the world. This makes it a great place to head to get some time out in nature without queuing to get up to the top of a summit. Minimal cell service is a great way to disconnect and take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Go on a safari

Some of Africa’s most incredible and iconic wildlife may be found around Nairobi and in Mount Kenya National Park. Take some time either before or after your trip to head out on a safari and see animals found nowhere else on earth. Lions, elephants, water buffalo and various species of monkeys and apes all call the national park home. Others can be found in Nairobi.

Mount Kenya has a typical equatorial mountain climate, meaning it is generally warm and sunny during the day with temperatures dropping substantially at night. The dry season (December to March) is the best time to climb since there is very little precipitation.

Any trip to Mt Kenya begins with a flight into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi (NBO). Most guides will opt to meet you here and provide transport to the start of the trip.

English, Swahili

+254

Kenyan shilling (KES)

December to March, but many guides offer trips year-round