How Hard Is It To Climb Mount Kenya?

How Hard Is It To Climb Mount Kenya? The three main peaks of Mount Kenya are Batian (5199m), Nelion (5188m), and Point Lenana (4,985m). The two larger peaks, Batian and Nelion, are both technical climbs, but Point Lenana is a trekking peak, and while it is undoubtedly difficult and you may struggle if you’re new to trekking, camping, and altitude, with the right preparation and a good guide team, the vast majority of people will summit.

Most people who have climbed both Mount Kenya and Kilimanjaro will know that the landscape and summit routes are more difficult on Mount Kenya, so you need to attempt it with a good guide and support team, make sure you have the proper equipment, eat well, and drink plenty of fluids so that by the time you reach the higher camps, you won’t be dehydrated. Mount Kenya shouldn’t be underestimated, though, as most people who have climbed both Mount Kenya and Kilimanjaro will.

How long does it take to climb Mount Kenya?

Our preferred itinerary is 5 days on the shorter options of our Mount Kenya trek and Mount Kenya traverse to allow for a safe ascent and descent. Many companies offer 3-day climbs on Mount Kenya, but this does not offer a safe acclimatization plan. Expect to spend six days on the mountain if you choose to ascend via the treacherous Burguret route and a similar amount of time if you decide to use the Summit Circuit.

How much does it cost to climb Mount Kenya?

The price varies depending on the Mount Kenya routes you choose and the lodging you intend to stay in. On a western ascent and descent, whether on the Naro Moru route, the Sirimon route, or a combination of both, camping is a less expensive option than using the huts at the various camps. A west-to-east traverse is a little more expensive because you need to use 4×4 vehicles to get off or on the mountain on the Chogoria route.

How hard is it to climb Mount Kenya?

The technical ascent of Nelion or Batian requires solid technical climbing experience, but most people can climb Point Lenana with the right equipment and good general fitness. You should also read up on health issues related to high altitude, safe acclimatization, and our Mount Kenya advice.

What is the weather like on Mount Kenya?

The weather on Mount Kenya is generally warm and sunny during the day and drops significantly at night, as is typical for a mountain that lies directly on the equator. Both from July to September and from December to March are the dry seasons. Given that there won’t be much rain, these two windows are ideal for climbing. Depending on elevation, daily average temperatures range from 11C to 26C (52F to 79F).

Despite being at a high elevation, the summits rarely experience below-freezing temperatures. You’ll spend the night in high-altitude camps before making the final ascent, and it gets very cold there. It’s critical that you get outfitted for this weather. This necessitates packing a suitable sleeping bag as well as thermal base layers, fleeces, and outer layers for protection.

What equipment do you need to climb Mount Kenya?

We have a suggested gear list for climbing Mount Kenya (we supply all group gear, including tents and cooking gear, but if you need personal gear, we can rent out gear like sleeping bags, waterproof jackets, trekking poles, etc.). Our guide to trekking boots will assist you in making the best choice, and our guide to sleeping bags will help you determine which weight and level of warmth are best for you.

When is the best time to climb Mount Kenya?

Which season is ideal for climbing? If you don’t want to trek in the rainy seasons, it’s best to avoid mid-March to mid-May and October and November. However, it’s getting harder to predict the rains, so if you have no choice but to climb in these months, don’t let the rains hold you back. The rain tends to fall after lunch on the mountain, so a lot of the time we can avoid trekking. Mount Kenya can be climbed all year.

How do you get to Mount Kenya from Nairobi?

There are several ways to get to Mount Kenya, but the most popular route is up the western slope. The least expensive way is to take a public matatu from Nairobi right to Naro Moru or Nanyuki. On the eastern side of the mountain, from Nairobi, there are also matatus that go to Chogoria. Private transfers from anywhere in Nairobi can be arranged for those who don’t feel like cramming into public transportation; for more information get in touch with us at Focus East Africa Tours.

CONCLUSION: HOW HARD IS IT TO CLIMB MOUNT KENYA?

You will require a high level of fitness to reach any summit on Mount Kenya because there are many steep sections. Additionally, you’ll have to hike long distances over several days. This ascent may be made more challenging by altitude. In order to avoid gaining altitude too quickly, hiring a qualified guide is crucial. Additionally, you’ll want an experienced guide nearby to help you manage any altitude sickness you may experience.