Mount Kenya
The second-highest mountain in Africa
Mount Kenya is less visited than Kilimanjaro and, for many people, the better mountain. The scenery is more varied, the routes are quieter and it costs considerably less.
The true summits, Batian and Nelion, require technical climbing. Point Lenana, the trekking summit at 4,985 metres, does not.
Plan My SafariSirimon
Sirimon approaches from the north-west and is the most gradual route, making it the best for acclimatisation.
Chogoria
Chogoria comes from the east and is widely regarded as the most beautiful route, passing through the Gorges Valley and by Lake Michaelson.
Naro Moru
Naro Moru is the fastest and most direct route, including the stretch known as the vertical bog. It is quickest up, but offers less time to acclimatise.
Many trekkers go up Sirimon and descend Chogoria, which gives the best of both.
Four to five days is normal. Adding a day improves your chance of reaching Point Lenana comfortably.
The mountain passes through distinct zones: farmland, bamboo and montane forest, heath, afro-alpine country with giant lobelias and groundsels, then rock and glacier near the summit.
The glaciers are retreating quickly and are considerably smaller than they were a generation ago.
Nights are cold above the forest, and snow is possible on the summit at any time of year.
Mount Kenya suits anyone who can walk for several hours a day on consecutive days. Altitude is the limiting factor, not fitness, and the summit push begins in the early hours to reach Point Lenana for sunrise.
It is also good preparation for Kilimanjaro at a fraction of the cost.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy lies to the north-west. It is home to the world's last two northern white rhinos, as well as a chimpanzee sanctuary and a substantial black rhino population.
Lewa, further north, is another well-known conservancy with strong game viewing.
Both combine naturally with a Mount Kenya trek and Samburu beyond.
When to Go
January and February, and June to October, are usually the driest periods. During the rains, trails are harder work and views less reliable.
Getting There
The main trailheads are around three hours by road from Nairobi.
Tell us your experience and dates
Tell us how much time you have, your trekking experience and whether you want to add safari days before or after the mountain.