Hiking Mt Kenya

Mount Kenya is Africa’s second highest peak at 17,057 feet + second only to Mount Kilimanjaro in nearby Tanzania.

This is the tallest mountain in Kenya and revered by the Kenyan people as a holy place.

Mount Kenya is situated around 125 miles Northeast of Nairobi. From Nairobi’s International Airport the start point of the hike can be easily reached via the highway in a bus or private transport.

When compared with neighboring Mt Kilimanjaro, this climb is more peaceful and less likely to be crowded with hikers. There are gorgeous views of the Kenyan plains below + at time even Kilimanjaro can be seen from the summit.

Mount Kenya can be reached via it’s three peaks: Batian, Nelion and Point Lenana. Depending on which one you choose to climb, the ascent can range from a medium-difficult trek to a challenging rock climb.

Batian

Mt Kenya’s highest peak, sits at 17,057 feet and is a challenging ascent with many technical points. This peak is for the experienced mountaineers.

Nelion

This peak is slightly lower at 17,020 feet. This again is a challenging climb that requires experience in multi-pitch rock climbing.

Point Lenana

It sits at 16, 354 feet and is the most popular peak for hikers. It’s a challenging ascent but you don’t need to have previous experience to attempt it. You will need a high level of fitness though, as there are many steep sections.

It is essential to attempt this hike with a guide who can safely monitor your speed of ascent and adequate acclimatization as well as screen you for signs of altitude sickness. It usually takes around 9 days to reach the top. There are 5 different ways to make it to Point Lenana and you can combine to create a trip filled with varied landscape.

The Sirimon Route

Allows you to ascend more steadily and gives you a stunning approach to the final peak. This is one of the most popular routes to the summit. It is protected from rainfall + there are two camps along the route which allow you to recharge on your way up and go at your own pace.

The Burguret Route

This route is excellent if you want to really feel alone on the mountain. This is a challenging route as it’s not used as much - so there are opportunities to hack your way through wild vegetation. This trail takes a minimum of 3 nights and it’s ideal to combine it with a different trail for the descent.

The Noro Moru Route

This trail is the shortest and most direct route. This means it tends to be busy and popular but is truly great for an easy + fast descent. This trail is best done over 2 days.

The Chogoria Route

It is a bit longer descent + will require 3 days. The scenery is breathtaking with views of waterfalls and an amazing gorge.

The Timau Route

This is an older track and is really not used much these days. It’s not the best route as there is nowhere to stay overnight along the way nor are there any facilities.

Given the altitude, the nights will likely be very cold.

This requires bringing a suitable sleeping bag, thermal base layers, fleeces, and protective outer layers.

It is also best to plan for this hike in the dry season.

Remember that Malaria prophylaxis needed. Read more about Malaria here.

Educate yourself on the risks of Altitude sickness + Acute Mountain Sickness

Remember to review the PASEO HEALTH GUIDE for your chosen destination prior to your departure for more detailed information.

You may also schedule a BESPOKE TRAVEL HEALTH CONSULTATION for a thorough travel health assessment prior to your trip.

Safe Travels!