At the top of Mount Kenya, which rises to 5199 meters above sea level, this ancient mountain volcano is made up of volcanic rock. The rock formations provide climbing opportunities for adventure seekers. In addition, the Ostrich Mountain (so named by the Wakamba) is an essential water source for the country, as it gives rise ►
At the top of Mount Kenya, which rises to 5199 meters above sea level, this ancient mountain volcano is made up of volcanic rock. The rock formations provide climbing opportunities for adventure seekers. In addition, the Ostrich Mountain (so named by the Wakamba) is an essential water source for the country, as it gives rise to Kenya's largest rivers: the Tana and the Ewaso Rivers.
As you ascend in altitude, you will pass through different areas of vegetation, ranging from dense forests to alpine meadows. You can admire majestic trees symbolizing the region, such as giant ragwort and giant lobelias. Mount Kenya shows a variety of vegetation: alpine areas ranging from moors to bamboo areas and low slopes where the villages surrounding the mountain are located. The foliage is mainly savannah with thorns.
You'll be able to encounter species like mountain buffalo, mountain hyrax, and colobus monkeys. If you're lucky, you might even spot elephants, leopards, or lions roaming the mountain's lower slopes. The forest area is home to mammals such as damans, black-tailed mongooses, elephants, black rhinos, black-fronted duikers, and leopards. Moorish mammals include the local Mount Kenya shrew, the rock daman and the duiker. Many species are endemic, including lobelia, ragwort and Cape daman. For this reason, an area of 715 km2 around the summit is protected by Mount Kenya National Park.
The weather at Mount Kenya can be changeable due to the altitude. In general, the climate is scorching and dry. Temperatures vary depending on altitude and can be cool, especially at night. It is vital to prepare accordingly with warm, waterproof clothing. January and February and July and August are generally the driest and most favorable periods for climbing.
As for activities, climbing Mount Kenya is a must-do experience for high-mountain hiking enthusiasts. Several routes are available, ranging from those suitable for beginners to more technical ones for the more experienced.
For beginners, the most recommended route is the Sirimon Way. It's a gentler route with a gradual climb, making it a great option. The Sirimon Way offers a chance to see a variety of flora and fauna.
More complex, the most popular route is the Naro Moru route. This is the shortest route but also the steepest and most technical. Taking this route requires having good physical condition and previous experience.
Other routes, such as the Chogoria and Burguret Way, offer different landscapes. ◄
