Climbing Mount Kenya

Rising to 5.199 meters above sea level, Mount Kenya is the highest peak in the country and the second highest in Africa. Conveniently located just 150 kilometers north-northeast of Nairobi, it is also pretty easy to get to. The massif is divided into three different summits: Batian (5.199 meters), Nelion (5.188 meters) and Lenana Peak (4.985 meters) Batian is the crown jewel of the mountain and the most sought after of the three summits, but is also the toughest, requiring advanced mountaineering skills. The southeast route up Nelion is the most commonly taken route as it offers stunning views over the massif and surroundings and only requires intermediate mountaineering skills. Both ascents require a high degree of physical fitness, however. Leanna Peak requires the lowest level of climbing ability and, as a result, is popular among more novice climbers as well as those who would rather spend more time hiking around the base of the mountain through the national park. Regardless of which of these summits you climb, expect to spend at least a week doing so, with most guides opting to do it in 10 days or more