Hiking Mountain Kenya (5,199m) is a dream come true for any lover of heights, dramatic rock faces and remote places. With its mesmerising clump of summits, the mountain is a unique experience that beckons hikers from far beyond. This ancient, extinct volcano is visible from the drive from Nairobi on weather-friendly days. Its towering peaks rise above a geographical relief of farmlands, forests, and hills that stretch out on a plateau 4,000m below.
Mountain Kenya is often termed the mountaineer’s mountain. Why? Its two highest peaks, Batian (5,199m) and Nelion (5,188m) require specialist mountaineering equipment and hiking expertise to summit safely—only about 50 people summit Batian yearly. The highest point most hikers reach is the third tallest summit, Point Lenana, which stands at 4,985m. The climb to Lenana still demands high fitness levels, a head for heights, and a true sense of adventure.
What you need to know about hiking Mountain Kenya
Hiking and summiting Mountain Kenya is no easy feat; an average hiker can take up to a week. While not a walk in the park, the hike is excitingly breathtaking and fun. It offers the conqueror’s reward of watching the world at your feet from any of the mountain’s numerous peaks. Hikers encounter different plant and animal species that keep evolving and adapting to the various climatic regions as they reach the summit.
Vegetation
The diverse afro-alpine flora of Mountain Kenya offers a good insight into the various ecological processes in this unique habitat. As you ascend the mountain, you’ll notice changes in vegetation determined by factors such as altitude and rainfall.
In the drier and lower zones (below 2,500m), expect to find the popular African Juniper, a coniferous tree native to mountainous relief within Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Beyond the 2,500m altitude, bamboo stalks and the famous Rendie or Podocarpus milanjianu reign supreme. Rendie is an evergreen tree that grows up to 40 metres in conditions that favour it. It has a buttressed base and a thick cylindrical trunk that ranges between 150-300cm in diameter.
At elevations above 3,000m, the slopes harbour various flora ecosystems. These include grassy glades, moorlands, tussock grasslands, and sedges. As altitude increases, the vegetation becomes less continuous, and above 4,500m, it becomes sporadic. However, despite these harsh conditions, isolated vascular plants have been discovered thriving at elevations exceeding 5,000m. This showcases the remarkable resilience of high-altitude flora.
Popular Trekking Routes
The prominent peaks of Mount Kenya formed from volcanic magma that solidified in the central vent. The mountain’s ridges and valleys spread out from the peaks like the spokes of a wheel. Trekkers typically follow the routes that lead through the valleys and then ascend to reach the different summits. Most hikers, around 90%, opt for the Naro Moru, Sirimon, and Chogoria routes. Trekkers prefer these routes because they have staffed park gates, facilities, and huts. The remaining 5% choose the Burguret, Kamweti, and Timau routes, which are more rugged and offer only basic camping facilities.
In the forthcoming sections, we will explore each of these routes comprehensively. It is crucial to note that the descriptions below are concise overviews meant to incite curiosity and a sense of adventure among readers. Do not use them for navigational use. Remember to engage a guide; independent treks are strictly prohibited for safety reasons.
Naro Moru
The Naro Moru Route on Mount Kenya provides the quickest ascent to Point Lenana. Approaching from the West, the route is accessible through the National Park Gate and serves as the main headquarters for the mountain’s activities. The route used to be the most popular due to its relatively short distance and the availability of huts at Met Station (3050m) and MacKinders (4200m).
Following a well-marked path, the journey starts from Naro Moru and progresses via Percival’s Bridge, covering approximately 17km to the park’s entrance at 2,400m. From here, the route ascends on a paved road to the Meteorological Station, a suitable accommodation option situated at 3,050m
This route is known for sighting wildlife such as bushbuck, Colobus monkey, Sykes Monkey, and evidence of Buffalo and Elephant. The surroundings include a well-preserved hygenia forest with abundant flowers and other plants. The trek ends at Point Lenana through the Summit Circuit Path, offering a challenging yet achievable ascent with no mountaineering experience required.
Completing the route is a rewarding experience, blending intense physical challenges with stunning natural scenery. Throughout the trek, the route presents hikers with a well-endowed geography. Vegetation types sighted include rainforest, wet moorland, open moorland, and the exquisite Teleki Valley, making for an engaging and varied hiking experience. Mackinder’s c
amp is an essential resting point before the challenging ascent to Point Lenana. Overall, the Naro Moru Route is famous for its accessibility, relief, and the possibility of sighting unique wildlife, making it an appealing option for experienced and non-experienced trekkers.
Sirimon
Visitors can access the Sirimon Route on Mount Kenya from the northwest side. The Sirimon National Park gate, managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service, is where visitors pay the park and accommodation fees. Considered one of the more accessible routes, it features a gradual ascent with a few steeper sections to reach the top camp. This route is currently the most popular one, offering two huts with dormitory rooms, toilets, and camping sites: Old Moses (3400m) and Shiptons (4200m). The initial part of the route follows a vehicle track, leading to open moorland and the Mackinder Valley, and finally to the North approach to Point Lenana on summit day.
The route features various Mt. Kenya flora, including the giant Lobelia and Groundsel. Along the journey, you may have the chance to see Rock Hyrax at Shipton’s cave or hut.
While driving from the Sirimon River to the Park Gate is possible, walking is recommended for acclimatisation. The route continues to a communications station and the Mackinder Valley, passing through moorland, the Liki North River, and a ridge climb. After a hike of around seven hours, it eventually leads to Shipton’s Camp. This route also provides access to the Liki North Hut, allowing for exploration of other peaks of Mount Kenya, making it an excellent option for experienced climbers and adventurers.
Chogoria
Hiking and ascending Mountain Kenya via the Chogoria route offers a captivating and picturesque approach from the East. Wind your way through the National Forest Reserve gate near the village of Chogoria and continue past the National Park gate as you make your way up the mountain. This route is celebrated for its stunning scenery and rugged terrain, necessitating 4×4 vehicles to bypass the lower stretch and making it a longer endeavour. It’s important to note that no accommodation huts along this route require hikers to be self-sufficient with their camping gear. However, in exchange for this self-sufficiency, hikers are rewarded with a quieter and incredibly scenic ascent route on Mount Kenya.
From the Park Gate at 3,000m, the journey passes through tussock grass and moorland, eventually leading to the tranquil Lake Ellis at 3,390m. The higher moorland, with sparse tree cover, offers a serene setting with an impressive view of Mount Kenya in the distance and the shimmering stars reflected in the lake’s waters. The route continues through Gorges Valley, culminating in Hall Tarn, a rocky camping ground above Lake Michaelson, and Mintos Camp at 4,230m. An early start before dawn allows hikers to ascend to Point Lenana via the Simba Col, providing a beautiful and memorable sunrise view.
How long does it take to trek Mountain Kenya?
The duration of hiking Mountain Kenya varies based on the selected route, the trekker’s pace, and acclimatisation requirements. Typically, a trek to the summit ranges from 3 to 8 days:
Shortest Routes (3-4 Days). Trekkers can complete the Naro Moru and Sirimon routes within 3 to 4 days. These routes provide a direct path to Point Lenana, the primary peak for most hikers. However, the rapid ascent may heighten the risk of altitude sickness.
Moderate Duration (5-6 Days). Many trekkers prefer a 5-to 6-day itinerary, which allows for a more comfortable pace and improved acclimatisation. This timeframe includes an additional day for acclimatisation (the process by which a body adjusts to a change in its environment, allowing it to maintain fitness across various environmental conditions), reducing the likelihood of altitude sickness.
Longest Routes (7-8 Days). The Chogoria or Burguret routes, featuring more scenic and less crowded trails, generally span 6 to 8 days. These lengthier treks enable a slower pace, enhanced acclimatisation, and more time to explore the mountain’s diverse landscapes.
The duration depends on one’s physical fitness, route, and time allocation for acclimatisation and exploration. Embracing the local adage “pole pole,” meaning “slowly,” while moving at one’s own pace and savouring the views ensures a rewarding experience.
What is the best time to hike Mountain Kenya?
When planning to go hiking Mountain Kenya, it is essential to consider the best time to visit. The optimal periods for trekking the mountain are during the two primary dry seasons:
January to February. This timeframe is highly favoured for hiking Mountain Kenya due to the typically dry weather, clear skies, and warmer temperatures, which create ideal hiking conditions. This period provides the highest probability of reaching the summit without having to contend with heavy rain or muddy trails.
June to September. Another excellent time for trekking is during the extended dry season, particularly from late June to September. The weather during this period is calm and stable, with clear skies allowing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The trails are also less muddy, making the ascent more manageable.
Avoiding the Rainy Seasons. It is advisable to avoid the two rainy seasons, which occur from March to May and October to December. During these times, the trails can become slippery and challenging, and visibility is often reduced due to cloud cover and fog. However, if solitude is preferred and wet conditions are not a deterrent, these periods can offer a quieter experience on the mountain.
What gear do you need when hiking Mountain Kenya?
To adequately prepare for hiking Mountain Kenya, having the right gear to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek is essential. In addition to the items listed, here are a few more critical pieces of gear to consider:
Additional clothing
- Rain Gear. A lightweight, packable rain jacket and pants are crucial for staying dry during unexpected rain showers.
- Sunglasses. UV-protective sunglasses are essential to shield your eyes from the sun’s glare, especially at higher altitudes with more robust UV rays.
- Sun Hat. A wide-brimmed hat that provides sun protection for your face, neck, and ears is essential for long hours of exposure to the sun.
Safety Gear
- Headlamp or Flashlight: A reliable light source is essential for early morning starts and navigating camp at night.
- First Aid Kit: Pack a lightweight, compact kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister treatment, and personal medications.
Trekking poles
- Trekking poles provide stability and reduce strain on your joints, especially during steep ascents and descents. Adjustable, collapsible poles are ideal for easy packing and transportation.
Personal Care items
- Toilet Kit: Bring a small toilet kit with biodegradable toilet paper, hand sanitiser, and a trowel for proper waste disposal.
Altitude Gear
- Diamox (Acetazolamide): Consult with a healthcare professional about using altitude sickness medication and whether it’s appropriate for your trek.
Navigation Gear
- Maps and Compass: While guides are often provided, having your navigation tools as a backup is always beneficial.
Start your hike today!! Book with us
Hiking Mountain Kenya is an adventure of a lifetime, offering an unparalleled opportunity to experience one of Africa’s most iconic geographical settings. From the various hiking trails to the different animal species and the ever-changing vegetation, as you ascend the mountain, every step tells a compelling story. Standing at Lenana and witnessing the world at your feet is a gratifying experience.
Reach out to us today, book your trip, and reap the fruits of experiencing the best by partnering with the best. Your time spent hiking Mountain Kenya is guaranteed to leave a lasting impact. We are dedicated to ensuring that you create memories to last a lifetime.