Discover Kenya's highest peak - a stunning extinct volcano with dramatic peaks, equatorial glaciers, and diverse ecosystems from tropical forest to alpine moorland
Embark on an unforgettable adventure as you depart Nairobi in the early morning, the city's bustling streets giving way to the tranquility of the countryside. Your destination is Mount Kenya National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning scenery and rich biodiversity.
Embark on a day hike to the Old Moses Camp on Mount Kenya from Nairobi. Admire the peaks of Mount Kenya, Nelion and Batian, and enjoy a picnic lunch at the Old Moses Camp.
Enjoy a full-day hiking trip on the second highest mountain in Africa. Take the famous Naro Moru route (6 hours) up to the Meteorological Station and back, catching sight of animals and birds and marveling at the scenic beauty around you.
Mount Kenya, rising 5,199 meters above the Kenyan highlands, stands as the country's highest peak and second-highest in Africa. Its distinctive jagged peaks and equatorial glaciers have made it a symbol of Kenya's natural beauty and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The mountain is an extinct volcano with three main peaks: Batian (5,199m), Nelion (5,188m), and Point Lenana (4,985m). The area is home to diverse wildlife including elephants, buffalo, and unique high-altitude flora. The challenging terrain and varying weather conditions make it a destination for serious hikers and climbers from around the world.
Mount Kenya lies within Mount Kenya National Park, a protected area that preserves the mountain's unique ecosystems, from tropical forest at the base to alpine moorland near the peaks.
Explore Mountain Features
Experience one of Africa's most recognizable mountains, with its distinctive jagged peaks and equatorial glaciers that create a unique alpine environment near the equator.
Spot elephants, buffalo, colobus monkeys, and unique high-altitude flora adapted to the mountain's varied ecosystems from forest to alpine zones.
Witness the rare equatorial glaciers, dramatic peaks, and the stunning contrast between tropical forest and alpine landscapes in this unique mountain environment.
Capture the ever-changing light on Mount Kenya's peaks, dramatic weather patterns, and the pristine African wilderness with stunning panoramic views.
Mount Kenya has been a sacred landmark for the Kikuyu, Embu, and Meru people for thousands of years, who called it "Kirinyaga" meaning "mountain of whiteness" due to its snow-capped peaks. The mountain holds deep cultural and spiritual significance.
The first recorded European sighting was in 1849 by Johann Ludwig Krapf, who named it Mount Kenya. The first successful ascent of Batian wasn't achieved until 1899 by Halford Mackinder and his team.
Now a world-renowned destination for hikers, climbers, and photographers, Mount Kenya continues to inspire with its challenging terrain, unique equatorial glaciers, and stunning beauty, embodying the wild spirit of Africa.
Learn more about Mount Kenya's history
The distinctive jagged peaks of Batian and Nelion offer some of the most dramatic and recognizable mountain profiles in Africa, with sheer faces that challenge even the most experienced climbers.
The stunning glacial lake offers one of the most photographed views on Mount Kenya, with the jagged peaks reflected in its pristine waters and the equatorial glaciers as backdrop.
The rare equatorial glaciers on Mount Kenya, remnants of the last ice age, provide a stunning contrast to the tropical surroundings and are a unique feature of this African mountain.
Watch for elephants, buffalo, colobus monkeys, and unique high-altitude flora - an integral part of the Mount Kenya experience in this diverse African ecosystem.
Prepare for your journey with these essential tips:
Address: Mount Kenya, Central Province, Mount Kenya National Park, Kenya
Coordinates: 0.1500°S, 37.3083°E
Located in central Kenya, accessible by car or bus from Nairobi. The main trails start from Naro Moru, Chogoria, or Sirimon gates.
Wear sturdy boots, layered clothing for all weather conditions, and waterproof gear. Mount Kenya weather is variable and can change rapidly throughout the day.
Some shorter trails around the base are suitable for families. The main Mount Kenya trails are strenuous and require excellent fitness. The peaks are for experienced climbers only.
Yes, park fees are required. You'll also need to pay for accommodation at mountain huts or camping permits. Guided tours include all necessary fees.
Absolutely. Mount Kenya offers spectacular photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset. Please stay on marked trails and respect the fragile mountain environment.
January to March and July to October offer the best conditions, avoiding the main rainy seasons. Weather is always variable on the mountain.
Some areas around the park gates have accessible paths, but the mountain trails themselves are not wheelchair accessible due to their steep and rocky terrain.
Look for elephants, buffalo, colobus monkeys, and unique high-altitude flora adapted to the mountain's varied ecosystems from forest to alpine zones.