Mountaineering - General Inforamtion

(Mt. Kenya Climbing)

Please click here for Mt. Kenya itineraries »

Mt. Kenya is a broad, large symmetrical volcano cone whose diameter at the base is about 12km.It was formed between 2.6 and 3.1 million years ago by eruptions of successive layers of volcanic lava. Mt. Kenya is climbed at all times of the year however, it’s best to avoid the two rainy seasons that usually start in mid March through till mid June. Even with porters, climbers should carry some basic equipment with them at all times, including rain gear, spare jersey, water and first aid kit.

There are three different routes commonly used up the mountain i.e. Sirimon, Naro Moru and Chogoria route. Always acclimatize by ascending slowly to avoid altitude sickness. Daytime temperatures on the lower side of the mountain are often pleasantly warm, although brief rain in the afternoon is always possible. Air becomes very cold as soon as the sun drops. At night, and on the higher parts of the mountain, temperatures often drop well below freezing point, so warm clothes and sleeping bags are essential.

Recommended items:

• Maps and Guide books i.e. The Ordnance Survey World maps Series (1:100,000) is recommended.
• Trekking in East Africa by Lonely Planet.

Clothing:

• Warm, windproof jacket with hood
• Warm underwear
• Walking socks, sun hat
• Scarf, good comfort walking boots
• Raining shoes(for evening)
• Overtrousers.

Mountain Equipment:

• Good warm sleeping bag, water bottle(1-2 litres)
• Water filter, wash kit and towel
• Toilet paper, sun glasses and torch
• Walking pole(s)
• Emergency whistle
• Rescue blanket
• First aid kit(including blister, plasters, headache tablets,suncream, lip salve, medication)

Trekking-

TECHNICAL CLIMBING ON THE MAIN PEAKS OF MT. KENYA

(Batian 5,169m and /or Nelion 5158m.)

For information only. Because of Mt. Kenya’s unique position on the equator, climbing seasons and route conditions vary with the sun’s position. For example, a climber interested in doing one of the best ice routes, which are on the south side of the mountain, should climb when the sun is in the north, between the months of June and December. However, during the same period the east and north sides are in the best condition for rock climbing. Conversely, when the sun is in the south, the south side offers the best rock routes and north the better ice climbing conditions.

Recommended routes

December-March
Normal Route, Standard IV (rock: South West Ridge, Standard V (rock routes).

June-September
North Face, Standard IV (rock Route).

August-December
South Face, Standard IV, Ice Window, Standard V (ice routes).

TROUT FISHING

Trout first came to Kenya in 1905 and were introduced by the late Ewart Grogan who planted them in the Gura River High up in the Aberdare National Park. There must be some forty rivers around mount Kenya stocked with either rainbow or brown trout. The Naro Moru River Lodge stocks its streams three or four times a year.

Wet fly fishing is the most popular, but there are one or two places which afford excellent dry fly fishing for the purist, Kenya trout are drift feeders and during the day lie up in the fast water at the head of pools, Moving down to the tail-end in the evening, where they usually start feeding off the surface. Owing to the close proximity of trees and bushes, the recommended cast on most rivers is the roll cast and the fly can be presented either up or down stream and cross according to conditions. Wanders are not necessary in Kenya as most of the fishing can be done from the bank.

To fish for trout in Kenya, a Government Trout License is required. These licences vary from Kshs. 200/= for 48 hours to K.Shs.400/=. These licences can be obtained from our Mountain Operations store or any Government Inland Revenue Office. In addition to the Trout Licence a trout permit is required to fish the Naro Moru River Lodge area and for five miles below the lodge. If you are new to this sport of trout fishing we are willing to help you make your first cast. Also remember that if you are full board client, our kitchen staff will gladly cook your catch at no extra charge. Good Luck and good fishing!

HEALTH AND FITNESS REQUIREMENTS

Anyone contemplating one of our expeditions should take regular exercise. It is recommended that you start a training programme at least one, if not two months before your safari.

“Running, swimming, cycling and stair-climbing are all good ways of toning up muscles.”

SEASONS FOR CLIMBING MT. KENYA

It has been generally accepted that our climbing seasons are from mid-December to mind- March and from mid June-to the end of September.

However, these traditional weather patterns seem to be the exception rather than the rule: the chances of encountering good weather on the mountain seem to be about equal throughout the year, so the timing of your safari is not as critical as once was.

GUIDES

Our professional local guides provide quality service on all our safaris.

FOOD

All meals for the treks is either fresh or tinned. The porters and guides are trained in cookery and service.

DISCLAIMER

Mountain climbing may be hazardous. Always take advice from your guide.

1. Pole Pole (Swahili for “go slowly”).
2. Take time to acclimatize
3. Eat well.
4. Drink lots of fluids. Tea is considered “dawa ya mlima” (Swahili for “medicine of the mountain).

top »