Location: Mt. Kenya lies 175 km (108 mi) north of Nairobi and its northern section borders the equator.

Climate: Because Mt. Kenya is more or less a vertical park, the climate changes as you ascend the mountain. Expect big temperature changes between the day and night, with lows at 4oC/39oF. Owing to its elevation, the mountain tends to be wet.

Best time to visit: The best climbing is during the two dry seasons – January/February and August/September. During the two rainy seasons, the trails are more difficult, and the visibility is poor.

Getting there:
You can book a tour with Timken Tours from Nairobi. The park is reached on the Nanyuki-Isiolo road. There is an asphalt road that circles the base of the mountain, linking the area towns of Naro Moru, Nanyuki, Meru and Embu.

By air: The closest airstrips to Mt. Kenya are at Nanyuki or the Laikipia Airport.

Things to do and see

Climbing/Trekking – Challenge yourself to this invigorating climb while enjoying some of the most beautiful (and changing) scenery as you hike past Mt. Kenya’s stunning lakes, tarns, glaciers and peaks.

Highland Castle – On the Burguret Route heading up the mountain, at 3700m (12,139 ft.) you can scramble up this castle-like formation and take in beautiful views of the Batian and Nelion peaks.

Camping & Caving – Shipton’s Camp is located just beneath the summit and is set amongst the snow-capped peaks. There is an alpine hut here where climbers can rent bunks and rest the night before summiting the mountain. Nearby are Shipton’s Caves, an adventurous spot for exploring.