At 5,199 metres, Mount Kenya is the second-highest peak in Africa after Kilimanjaro, and while its true summits — Batian and Nelion — require technical climbing, the third peak, Point Lenana at 4,985m, is a demanding but non-technical trek reachable by fit hikers over 3–5 days.
Three main routes lead up the mountain, each with a distinct character. Sirimon, approaching from the northwest, is the gentlest gradient and a good choice for acclimatisation, often paired with a descent via Chogoria. Naro Moru is the most direct and fastest route to Lenana, but its steep "vertical bog" section is notoriously punishing on legs and lungs. Chogoria, approaching from the east, is widely considered the most scenic — it climbs through dense forest and moorland past the Gorges Valley and Lake Michaelson before joining the summit circuit.
What the climb feels like
Days move through distinct zones: montane forest with colobus monkeys and elephant sign, then bamboo, then moorland studded with giant lobelias and groundsels found almost nowhere else on Earth, then alpine desert as you approach Lenana. Altitude is the real challenge, not fitness — a 4–5 day itinerary with a proper acclimatisation day gives your body time to adjust and dramatically improves your summit chances.
- A licensed guide and porters are required by park regulations and genuinely make the trek safer and more enjoyable.
- Summit morning is a pre-dawn push to catch sunrise from Lenana, arguably the best reason to do it this way.
- Book through a registered operator who provides proper gear checks and emergency evacuation plans.
Nanyuki and Naro Moru towns serve as the main jumping-off points, both reachable by road in around 3–4 hours from Nairobi.
