As Kenya's leading climbing operator, we specialize in Mount Kenya ascents - from scenic treks to Point Lenana (4,985m) to technical climbs to Batian Peak (5,199m). Our certified guides, quality equipment, and carefully planned 4-6 day itineraries ensure high success rates and an unforgettable experience.
Contact our climbing specialists today for free consultation!
Mount Kenya, standing at 5,199 meters (17,057 feet) at its highest point (Batian), is Africa's second highest mountain and the highest in Kenya. This ancient extinct volcano offers diverse ecosystems, from equatorial forest to alpine desert and glaciers. The mountain has three main peaks: Batian (5,199m), Nelion (5,188m), and Point Lenana (4,985m) - the trekking peak.
Climbing Mount Kenya is a unique experience combining trekking through varied landscapes with optional technical climbing sections.
Dry Seasons (Recommended):
January to February & June to September offer the best climbing conditions with clear skies and minimal rainfall.
Shoulder Seasons:
March & October - good conditions but chance of afternoon showers.
Rainy Seasons (Avoid):
April-May & November - heavy rainfall makes trails slippery and views limited.
Most scenic route to Point Lenana. Gentle ascent profile, beautiful valleys, and highest success rate.
Success Rate: 92%
Difficulty: Medium
Best For: First-time climbers & photographers
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Fastest route to Point Lenana. Includes the famous "Vertical Bog" and more challenging terrain.
Success Rate: 88%
Difficulty: Medium-Hard
Best For: Fit climbers with limited time
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For experienced mountaineers. Technical rock climbing to summit Africa's second highest peak.
Success Rate: 75% (weather dependent)
Difficulty: Hard (Technical)
Best For: Experienced climbers with technical skills
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Morning pickup from Nairobi hotel (4-5 hour drive to Mount Kenya). Lunch in Nanyuki town. Afternoon hike from Sirimon Gate (2,600m) through montane forest to Old Moses Camp (3,300m). 3-4 hours hiking. Dinner and overnight at the camp.
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 9km
Altitude Gain: 700m
After breakfast, ascend through Mackinder Valley with spectacular views of the main peaks. Pass through Liki North and Mackinder's Camp before arriving at Shipton's Camp (4,236m). 6-7 hours hiking. Acclimatization afternoon with optional short hike. Dinner and overnight.
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
Distance: 14km
Altitude Gain: 936m
Full acclimatization day. Optional hike to Kami Hut or around the nearby valleys. Rest, hydrate, and prepare for summit night. Afternoon briefing by guides. Early dinner and rest. This extra day significantly increases summit success chances.
Activities: Short acclimatization hikes, rest, preparation
Altitude: 4,236m
Wake at 2:30 AM for tea and biscuits. Begin summit ascent at 3:00 AM. Reach Point Lenana (4,985m) for sunrise (6-7 AM). Celebrate, take photos, then descend via the challenging "Vertical Bog" to Met Station (3,050m). 11-12 hours total hiking. Dinner and overnight.
Hiking Time: 11-12 hours
Distance: 18km
Summit Altitude: 4,985m
Final descent through bamboo forest to Naro Moru Gate (2,400m). Collect summit certificates. Lunch at the gate. Drive back to Nairobi (3-4 hours). Drop off at hotel or airport. End of services. Optional celebration dinner in Nairobi.
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 9km
Altitude Loss: 650m
Mount Kenya's trekking peak (Point Lenana at 4,985m) is generally considered more technically challenging than Kilimanjaro's main routes due to steeper sections and more varied terrain, though it's lower in altitude. The summit night involves scrambling over rocks. However, the trek to Point Lenana doesn't require technical climbing skills. The technical peaks (Batian/Nelion) require rock climbing experience. Success rates to Point Lenana are 85-92% with proper acclimatization.
Our all-inclusive Mount Kenya packages include: All park fees and permits, certified mountain guide and assistant guides, porters for equipment, mountain hut/camp accommodation, all meals on the mountain, drinking water, Nairobi hotel transfers, emergency oxygen, first aid kit, and summit certificate. Not included: International flights, travel insurance, tips for crew, personal climbing gear rental, Kenya visa, accommodation before/after climb (can be arranged), personal expenses.
Mount Kenya climbing costs are generally lower than Kilimanjaro. Our 4-day group climbs start at $950 per person, while 5-day climbs start at $1,150. Private climbs start at $1,250 for 4 days and $1,450 for 5 days. Technical climbs to Batian start at $1,800+. Prices vary based on group size, season, route, and service level. We recommend budgeting an additional $150-250 for tips and personal expenses.
Sirimon Route: Most scenic, gentle ascent, highest success rate. Best for first-timers.
Naro Moru Route: Fastest ascent, includes the "Vertical Bog", more challenging.
Chogoria Route: Most beautiful approach through dramatic gorges and lakes, but longer.
Technical Routes: For experienced climbers to summit Batian or Nelion peaks.
We often recommend the Sirimon-Naro Moru circuit for the best overall experience.
Mount Kenya National Park is a UNESCO site with diverse wildlife. On lower slopes you may see: elephants, buffalo, bushbuck, waterbuck, sykes monkeys, colobus monkeys, and various bird species including eagles and sunbirds. The alpine zone has unique vegetation like giant lobelias and groundsels. Wildlife sightings are less common than on safari but add to the experience. Always hike with guides for safety.
Mount Kenya has a mix of mountain huts and camps. Huts like Old Moses and Shipton's provide dormitory-style bunk beds with mattresses, basic cooking facilities, and shared toilet facilities. Some routes involve camping with tents we provide. Accommodation is basic but functional - the focus is on the climbing experience rather than luxury. We provide sleeping mats; you need your own sleeping bag. The huts offer shelter from weather and are more comfortable than camping in bad weather.
Our Mount Kenya specialists are ready to help you plan your successful summit. We'll recommend the best route based on your fitness level, experience, and preferences. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation and detailed quote.
Why climb Mount Kenya with us?
• 90%+ success rate to Point Lenana
• Certified guides with Mount Kenya experience
• Multiple route options for all abilities
• UNESCO World Heritage Site experience
• Quality equipment and safety protocols
• 24/7 support from booking to summit