Mount Kenya

Kenya, Africa

Mount Kenya, Africa's second-highest peak, offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and thrilling adventures for outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its striking glaciers, rich flora, and fauna, it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife spotting, and breathtaking scenery in places like the Mt. Kenya National Park. With vibrant cultures and stunning views of the peaks, it provides an unforgettable experience for trekkers and nature lovers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-7 days

Type

Mountain

Vibe

Active

Airport

Nanyuki

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

12 Best Things to Do in Mount Kenya

1

Est. 48 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Hike Mount Kenya

Trek to the summit of Africa's second highest peak.

Booking required
2

Est. 6 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Lake Nakuru National Park

Explore stunning wildlife and breathtaking landscapes at the lake.

No booking required
3

Est. 12 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Explore Chogoria Route

Discover scenic views and diverse flora on this trekking route.

Booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy

Learn about wildlife conservation efforts and see native species.

No booking required
5

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Engage with the Kikuyu Culture

Experience the traditions of the Kikuyu people firsthand.

No booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Go on a Night Safari

Experience the thrill of wildlife at night.

Booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Mountain Biking in Nanyuki

Ride through stunning landscapes and scenic trails.

No booking required
8

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Meru National Park

Explore diverse wildlife and scenic beauty in this park.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

See the Mau Mau Caves

Discover the historical significance of these caves.

No booking required
10

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Home to the last of the northern white rhinos.

No booking required
11

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Aberdare National Park

Hike through lush forests and spot wildlife.

No booking required
12

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Take a Scenic Flight Over Mount Kenya

Witness breathtaking aerial views of the mountain.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-10 (#143 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Kenyan Shilling

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Swahili

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Ugali Nyama Choma Na Kachumbari

Maize porridge with grilled meat and salsa (National dish)

Pilau

Spiced rice dish with meat or vegetables

Githeri

VE

Mixed beans and maize stew, hearty and nutritious

Sukuma Wiki

VE

Sautéed collard greens, often served as a side

Mutura

Grilled sausage made from meat and spices

Phrases to learn

English

Swahili

Hello

Habari

(Hah-bah-ree)

Yes/No

Ndiyo / Hapana

(Ndee-yo / Ha-pah-nah)

Thank you

Asante

(Ah-sahn-teh)

Excuse me

Samahani

(Sah-mah-hah-nee)

How much?

Bei gani?

(Bay-yee gah-nee)