Climb with an expert

Hello, am Benson, your local Mount Kenya guide!

I’m Benson Kinaro, a seasoned Mount Kenya guide with a passion for adventure and an unparalleled knowledge of the mountain's rugged terrains.

For over 26 years now, I’ve been the trusted companion for climbers from all corners of the globe, guiding them to the summit of Africa's second-highest peak. My expertise, combined with my captivating storytelling and deep respect for nature, makes each expedition an unforgettable journey.

My dedication ensures safety and creates a thrilling experience, inspiring climbers to conquer their fears and embrace the majestic beauty of Mount Kenya.

A majestic giant

About Mount Kenya

Mount Kenya, the second-highest peak in Africa at 5,199 meters, is a stratovolcano located in central Kenya, just south of the equator. Known for its diverse ecosystems, the mountain ranges from lush forests at its base to glaciers at its summit, supporting unique flora like giant groundsels and diverse fauna including elephants and buffalo. It holds cultural significance for the Kikuyu people, who regard it as the home of their god, Ngai. Established as a national park in 1949 and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, Mount Kenya is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, offering various trekking routes. It also serves as a crucial water catchment area, feeding major rivers like the Tana and Ewaso Ng’iro.

Questions & Answers

Questions I am frequently asked

How difficult is it to climb Mount Kenya?

Climbing Mount Kenya is neither exceptionally difficult nor particularly easy. Its altitude isn’t excessively high, which somewhat reduces the risk of altitude sickness. However, many climbers begin to experience symptoms at around 4,000 meters. The trek is challenging due to its uneven terrain, requiring ascents of steep hills and descents into valleys.
The trek up Mount Kenya is demanding, but the rewards are worth every step. Climbing can be challenging if you’re not in good shape.

To make the ascent easier, you’ll need to be physically fit, which will help you navigate the peaks and trails more effectively. Good fitness also allows you to gain altitude quickly. You’ll need both physical stamina and mental concentration, as the trek can take up to 11 hours.

So how do I improve my chances of making it to the summit?

Being successful in climbing Mount Kenya is all about preparation. Preparation isn’t limited to buying the necessary supplies and readying your body for the climb though. Picking the right time to make your journey is also involved in the preparation process.

It’s true; trips to the peak of Mount Kenya are available all year round. There are certain times when the experience is much better because of the smallest differences. For example, the weather is at its most tolerant during the months of Jan-Feb and July-October.

During these times, the rain won’t become your problem as the rainy season comes after these months. However, you can still experience a bit of rain during these months though. This allows you to experience the beauty of Mount Kenya.

Choose the Best Route
Before you resolve yourself to reach the peak of the mountain, you should first decide which route you’ll take. There are 4 main routes open for aspiring hikers. The burugets, naru moru,sirimon and chogoria. It is upon you to decide on the best trail up and down the mountain.

Train in Advance
If you are wondering about how to train for your Mount Kenya trek, you can use these five steps to become the best version of yourself. Fitness is not as important as the right acclimatization, but it can make things easier and help you on your way to Point Lenana.

Aerobic Fitness:
You best get moving as soon as you have your mindset on your Mt Kenya climb. With the right aerobic fitness, you will have an improved heart rate, healthy muscles, and great lung capacity. Do power walking, running, hiking, trekking, cycling, and/or swimming. Don’t worry. you don’t need to train for a marathon. One hour, 3 to 4 times a week is plenty of exercises.

Endurance:
When you are comfortable doing exercise a few times a week, you can fire it up by doing some longer sessions. The best thing you can do is walk long distances, at least once a week. If you can hike comfortably for a prolonged time, you are good to go.

Gear:
Don’t use your backpack and shoes that you purchased for your Mt Kenya ascent for the first time after your land. Break them in and use this equipment when you are working on points 1 and 2. Altitude: If you can, you can mimic the altitude by hiking and trekking in the hills and mountains. If you do not live in the right area for that, then don’t panic. The first two points are the most important.

Know Your Body:
This is perhaps the most important part. If you are questioning your physical capabilities, you should perhaps go see a professional for monitoring. It is important to know your body, so you can notice any warning signs when you are on your way to Point Lenana.

Which is the best route up the mountain?

Mount Kenya offers several main climbing routes, each providing a unique experience for adventurers. Some of the prominent routes include Naro Moru, Sirimon, and Chogoria.

The Naro Moru route, known for its direct ascent, is one of the most popular routes. It is renowned for its scenic beauty, passing through dense forests, bamboo zones, and picturesque valleys. The route presents a medium difficulty level, with some steep sections and rocky terrain. Climbers can witness stunning views of the Teleki Valley and the impressive Batian and Nelion peaks.

The Sirimon route, starting from the west, is considered one of the most scenic routes. It offers diverse landscapes, ranging from lush montane forests to moorlands. The route is moderately challenging, gradually gaining altitude and providing ample acclimatization opportunities. Trekkers on the Sirimon route are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the northern valleys, tarns (mountain lakes), and the mesmerizing Mackinder Valley.

The Chogoria route, beginning from the east, is renowned for its striking beauty and varied landscapes. It takes climbers through bamboo forests, high-altitude moorlands, and spectacular alpine scenery. The route is considered more challenging due to its longer distance and steep sections. Along the way, climbers can marvel at the Gorges Valley, Lake Ellis, and the remarkable Giant Billiards Table, a massive rock formation.

Each route boasts popular attractions and landmarks that add to the allure of the climb. Along the Naro Moru route, climbers can explore the unique vertical bog, a fascinating phenomenon where moss-covered trees seem to grow vertically. The Sirimon route offers stunning views of the Gorges Valley and the captivating Hall Tarns, pristine mountain lakes surrounded by dramatic cliffs. On the Chogoria route, climbers can experience the enchanting beauty of Lake Michaelson, nestled in a picturesque valley, as well as the intriguing Temple and Square Tarns.

What is the cost of climbing Mount Kenya?

There are 8 main trekking routes on Mount Kenya. It is upon you to choose a route that is favorable for you. You will need to use other routes when ascending and others while descending.

Regardless of which route you choose, it can cost between 500 and 700 EUR or 500 and 800 USD. If you are interested in doing the Burguret – Chogoria Traverse, for example, you can expect to pay about 975 EUR or 1080 USD.

How long does it take to climb Mount Kenya?

Comfortably, within 4 days you can climb Mount Kenya and get to point Lenana and back. But when rock-climbing to point Batian you need a minimum of 6 days.

You can also do a traverse and spend 6 days on the mountain. 4 to 5 days on the mountain. How long you take to climb the mountain depends on the route you choose.

When deciding on a route, it’s good to be realistic. Trekking for many hours a day in both hot and cold weather can be tiresome. However, to avoid ruining your adventure it is important that you consider a simpler route to the mountain.

You will also need to consider the time you have available for hiking. Ensure that you allow yourself a day to prepare for the trip. After hiking, you will most likely want a day to rest too.

Remember, climbing Mount Kenya isn’t all about reaching the summit either. To make the most of your time in this phenomenal park, you should choose your route based on the things you’ll get to see.

When is the best time to climb Mount Kenya?

What do you need to climb Mount Kenya?

Here is the mountain climbing gear you will need.

Personal Equipment:

Sunglasses or snow goggles (a must)
Water bottle (a must) you can adapt a plastic mineral water bottle into a reliable water bottle.
Purification kits or tablets are highly recommended and can be purchased from any chemist.
Torch or flashlight (a must, especially for pre-dawn hiking).
Walking pole(s) (optional).
Emergency foil blanket (optional).
Trekking Equipment
Rucksack: Big enough to fit all equipment you will need to be carried by a porter.
Day pack: To fit necessities required, while hiking from one point to the other.
Big polyethylene bag: To pack in clothes for protection against wet conditions.
Sleeping bag: Warm and not bulky bags are highly recommended.
Footwear
Walking boots with large grips are especially necessary at high altitudes, lightweight.
4 -8 pairs of woolen warm socks depending on your program.
Sometimes you could adapt them as gloves during bad weather.
Clothing
Warm jumpers or woolen long-sleeved shirts.
2-5 depending on the number of days (1 or 2 t-shirts may come in handy).
Water-resistant warm jacket or ordinary heavy jacket doubled up with a raincoat.
Lighter jacket or tracksuit may come in handy during warmer spells.
Strong trousers preferably loose fitting ones.
Water-resistant trousers or leg gaiters if attempting a hike during the rainy season.
1 or 2 pairs of shorts that can be used at lower altitudes during good weather.
Gloves are extremely necessary above 4,000m when attempting a pre-dawn hike.
Mittens or woolen hats to cover the ears against strong winds.

Miscellaneous Items:

Small towel, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, sun cream, toilet paper, petroleum jelly, map and map case, penknife, whistle, compass, and sandals.

Personal Medical Supplies:

Carry a medical kit. Some items that you might want to carry yourself would include aspirin, Imodium, laxatives, antibiotics, bandages, malaria tablets, gauze, adhesives, betadine, throat lozenges, eye drops, sunblock, lip balm, moleskin, antihistamine tablets, and cream.

Medical Certificates:

Not many people have been to such high altitudes before. Therefore, climbers should have a medical check before attempting to climb Mount Kenya.

What is the tipping policy when climbing Mount Kenya?

Although not mandatory, tipping is an admirable way to share your satisfaction with your guide and varied staff service you will receive while in Mount Kenya.

Here is a guide:

Porters – $ 8 per day/porter
Cook – $ $12 per day/ cook
Chief guide & Assistant guides – $20 per day/ guide

To avoid confusion and safe guard the well-being of our mountain crew, we recommend the following:

For groups of more than two, they work out $250 – $300 per person. For one or two people the recommended tips are $300 per person as the tips for the guide, assistant guide and the cook remain the same regardless of group size.