Mount Kenya: Climbing, Routes and Alternatives Without Climbing

Mount Kenya, Africa's second-highest peak at 5,199 m (Batian), is an extinct volcano listed by UNESCO together with its forest. Most visitors do not climb the two technical summits: they aim for Point Lenana (4,985 m), reachable on foot in three to five days, or settle for forest walks and mountain lodges on the slopes. If you lack the time or the will to climb, the Nanyuki area offers conservancy safaris and an equator line.

Highlights

Batian and Nelion peaks

The two rocky summits, reserved for experienced climbers; you can see them from afar from the roads and the Point Lenana trails.

Point Lenana

The "trekking" summit (4,985 m), reached after a night start to watch the sunrise; altitude requires a gradual ascent.

The climbing routes

Sirimon, Naro Moru, Chogoria and Burguret are the main ones; Sirimon and Chogoria are known for their scenery, Naro Moru for being the most direct.

Alternatives without climbing

Walk in the park's forest, sleep in a mountain lodge or combine the area with Ol Pejeta (near Nanyuki) for a rhino safari.

Our guides that feature it

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