MOUNT KENYA 5199m

Mt Kenya is an African Alpine wonderland. This beautiful mountain which straddles the equator was sculpted by glaciers on their way down from the ancient volcanic peaks. The dramatic peaks and colossal valleys are dotted with tarns that  sit like jewels embedded in Kenya’s crown.

 

The lush rain forest that cloaks the lower slopes of Mt Kenya is home to an abundance of wildlife including buffalo, elephant & wild boar. The diverse vegetation is worth investigating, eerie bamboo forests give way to moorland and Afro-alpine flowers and finally the  life giving tarns create oases in stark contrast to the rugged mountaintops.

The ascent starts on the East of Mt Kenya in the Tropical Rain forest, proceeding through the bamboo forests to spend the first night at the abundant Nithi falls.

 

The next day reveals the beauty of Gorges Valley and camp is at Hall Tarns, a place of crystal clear lakes, massive cliffs and valleys.

After gaining the heights of Mt Kenya via the Chogoria route and acclimatizing on the beautiful Peak Circuit, the real Vertical challenge begins from Kami Tarn for the North Face Standard route or Austrian Hut for the Normal S.E face.

 

Depending on the time of the year, these are the two routes of choice to access the summits of Nelion 5188m and Batian 5199m. The peaks are separated by The Gate of mists a steep ridge often covered in snow and ice that must be traversed if both summits are to be reached.

 

The grade on these climbs are a moderate (IV/ V), however the rigours of altitude, extreme exposure, mountain weather and the taxing ascent of the Chogoria route should be considered. The routes are also long with between 700m and 1 1100m of climbing.

 

Previous climbing experience is essential and it’s advisable to be comfortable climbing two or three grades above the route grade. GoVertical provides all the technical equipment and leading for the climb. If time permits, it may be possible to climb other satellite peaks on the circuit such as Pt Peter 4757m.

To make a booking or to request more information please contact Garth or Lee-Anne at GoVertical Mountaineering Adventures by email : Bookings

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Mt Kenya has 3 major crests, the highest is Batian 5199m whose twin brother Nelion who sits at 5188m. These two summits are accessible to Rock Climbers, while Pt Lenana, the third highest peak 4985m is the trekking peak that attracts avid hikers. The views are unrivalled, as this African mountain must be the most beautiful on the continent.

POINT LENANA VIA THE CHOGORIA AND SIRIMON ROUTES

THE MOUNT KENYA PEAK CIRCUIT

After gaining the base of the peaks, an altitude of roughly 4200m the peak circuit explores the magnificent peaks, tarns and Glaciers of Mt Kenya. This hike will acclimatize you for either the Pt Lenana ascent or summit attempt of Nelion and Batian.

 

Aside form the  technical benefits of the hike, you will be astounded as each magnificent vista opens up before you. Spend the two nights on the circuit camping at Kami tarn and Austrian Hut camp before ascending Pt Lenana the highlight of the trek. Descent past Shiptons camp via Sirimon route.

As the ascent continues, the huge peaks draw closer  & Pt Lenana becomes a realistic goal. The summit offers fantastic views of Batian and Nelion and the valleys radiating away from the peaks. Descent is on the Sirimon route via the Mackinder Valley past the jagged blades of Terere and Sendeo on the Northern side of the mountain.

NELION AND BATIAN - THE SUMMIT OF MT KENYA

WEATHER - It is possible to climb Mt Kenya all year round.

January to March and July to September are the driest periods on Mt Kenya

ACCESS

Closest International airport: Nairobi Kenya. Closest towns Chogoria or Nanyuki. All GoVertical treks on Mt Kenya include return transfers to and from Nairobi.

FACILITIES

GoVertical normally chooses to patronize either the Country Lodge or the Fairview Hotel in Nairobi. These 4 star hotels offer secure accommodation & a range of comprehensive services including restaurants, forex facilities.

ON MT KENYA

Trekking on Mt Kenya is an adventure, to enjoy it fully backpackers must be fit, determined, enjoy wilderness camping & be able to carry their own provisions. Porters are available on request.

Unlike Kilimanjaro, the Mt Kenya Park authorities do not insist that groups use porters or park guides or  walk on pre designated routes. This allows more versatility, more opportunities to explore the wonders of Mt Kenya, altogether a more pleasant experience on the mountain.

The treks are guided by GoVertical guides & camps are set up each night in mountaineering tents at a quiet site, meals are prepared by GoVertical guides.