Mount Kenya Hiking Adventure

Mount Kenya is the second highest mountain in Africa, standing at 5,199 meters above sea level, Mt Kenya is the second highest mountain in Africa and provides a range of stunning challenging treks and some of the best technical alpine climbing in Africa. The highest peaks of the mountain are Batian 5,199 meters, 17,057 ft., Nelion 5,188 meters, 17,021 ft. which are technical ascents and Point Lenana 4,985 meters, 16,355 ft.

Mount Kenya is the less climbed cousin of Mount Kilimanjaro nearby in Tanzania, however many people prefer the wilderness, abundant wildlife and stunning mountain lakes that you find on Mount Kenya. Point Lenana at 4985m metres is a feasible trekking peak and also currently the world’s highest via ferrata summit route, which adds to the challenge and enjoyment. The panoramic views of the jagged volcanic peaks, wide valleys and surrounding savannah makes a trek on this mountain a thoroughly enjoyable African experience.

The area surrounding the peak make up Mount Kenya National Park, well known for its unique flora and fauna. From the lowland savannah and bamboo forests the flora changes as you rise in elevation. Here you will find the unique high-altitude equatorial environment. The landscape seems as if it belongs on another planet with strange plants and misty terrain.

The approach to Mount Kenya from Nairobi involves a journey of about four hours to either the town of Naro Moru or Embu, where we can provide accommodation in a local hotel or our Guest House. Naro Moru is the base for ascents on the Sirimon, Burguret and Naro Moru routes and Embu is used for the Chogoria route.

There are a number of routes for hiking for summiting Mount Kenya, thus the Tmau route and the Chogoria route. There are also other routes that allow a combination of two routes so that you can enjoy the adventure on both routes.

Mount Kenya Timau route

The Timau route is one of our classics. It has a gradual gradient allowing for good acclimatization to the altitude. The route is also remote and underutilized. It is unlikely that you will see another group until you are near the summit.

This route is one of the best on Mt Kenya for good acclimatization and can also be extended with an extra day / camp between Marania and Major’s Camps OR two nights in Major’s camp (for example when acclimatizing for summit bids of Nelion + Batian).

Mount Kenya Chogoria Route

The Chogoria Route approaches Mount Kenya on the Eastern side via Chogoria town. It is much quieter on this side compared to the busy western slopes. The route is longer and more gradual which is perfect for acclimatisation over a great 5 day trek.

This route starts and ends at Embu and requires 4×4 transport to reach the starting point. It is also a trekking route that summits Point Lenana taking you through the Gorges Valley and the Lewis Glacier.

The scenery is so stunning on this route and it has a fantastic charm as it brings a feeling of solitude and peace into a magnificent mountain hike. This route brings to life some of the most beautiful and scenic sites on the mountain, the trek passes two of the most iconic lakes on Mount Kenya, Lake Ellis and Lake Michaelson. Lake Michaelson is considered to be the most stunning location on this great mountain. Set at the head of the Gorges Valley surrounded by 200m rock walls on each side that make up the Temple.

The Lakes are regularly stocked with Rainbow and Brown trout, providing a unique opportunity for the avid fly fisherman or woman, and if you’re not it is an amazing place to camp and relax after a long days trekking.

Mount Kenya Sirimon Route

Sirimon is another walking route that reaches Point Lenana, this route is the easiest of the three trekking routes to Point Lenana. Also starting from Naro Moru, the route takes five days and the diverse scenery and enjoyable hiking make this route the perfect choice if accompanied with a descent down the other side on the Chogoria route

Technical Climbs up Mount Kenya Batian Peak

If you are a proficient trade climber, you will love the challenge of Batian Peak, the true summit of Mount Kenya (5,199m). Previous technical rock climbing experience is required for this 21-pitch climb. All 21 pitches are done in one day, making this Mt Kenya summit not only a beautiful climb, but an exhausting one as well. This peak is best attempted in June through August.

Fitness Level Required to Climb Mount Kenya

For the trekking routes up to Point Lenana, you do not need to be an ultra-fit mountaineer. However, you should have some previous hiking experience over hilly terrain and a good overall fitness. For Nelion or Batian Peak you will need to be in excellent climbing shape. Multi-pitch climbs involve a lot of stamina and strength. Not just in your ability to climb, but walk as well. The technical climbing routes require you to summit Point Lenana as well, so be prepared to both trek and endure a multi-pitch climb.

Gear and Kit Required to Climb Mount Kenya

Aside from personal articles, having the right layering and clothing is key for climbing Mount Kenya. Having a few moisture-wicking, non-cotton layers are essential. Furthermore, you will want an insulating layer like a puffy jacket, hat and gloves for higher elevations. Mount Kenya does get rain and snow, so a waterproof layer and gaiters are useful for keeping the wind and rain at bay.

If you are climbing Nelion or Batian peaks, you are responsible for bringing your own trad racks, ropes, harness, helmet, cams and anchoring systems.

Best Times to Trek Mount Kenya

Best times for climbing Mount Kenya from any of the trekking routes are January to March and June to October but it can be climbed year-round. The rainy seasons typically occur in April, May and November. However, with the onset of climate change they have been difficult to predict in recent years.

Get in touch with our sales team at One More Adventure Safaris, and have your Mount Kenya hiking trip arranged for you. You can as well combine the hiking with wildlife safari, to explore the Kenya’s wildlife safari parks.