10 Days Rock Climbing up Nelion 5188m and Batian 5199m
Day 1-Leave Nairobi(1650m) at 0700hrs and drive North 3hrs to Nanyuki (2200m).
Connect with a crew of porters and drive on for an hour to the Sirimon Gate (2650). After a picnic Lunch,start a 4 hrs 9km hike through the forested zone to Old Moses camp (3300m). Arrive early evening for dinner and overnight.
Day 2-Break Fast is at 0600hrs.Follow the trail crossing the open moorland via the Ontulili Valley.
The path meanders past the heather land eventually finding its way into the Likii North Valley.Climb out the Valley to Join Mackinder Valley.Lunch is picnic en route.Walk a long the valley Via the Afro-Alpine Zone to arrive Shipton Camp (4250m) in 6 hrs.Break for overnight.
Day 3-After Break fast continue for a side track up the ridge to Hausberg Col 4550m.
Drop into the valley and continue west wards passing the lakes to the site of the hut tarn.There is an amazing view of the western peaks and hanging glaciers(Cesar and Tyndall). Drop into Teleki valley to stay in Mackinders.Arrive in time for lunch.Take a rest in the afternoon with some short excursions around the camp.Overnight in camp.
Day 4-Leave the camp at 0900hrs and climb up the steep ridge towards Austrian Hut 4790m.
The gravel is loose but walking poles will help to maintain balance.After 2 hours walking,one feel rejuvenated by the views of Point John 4885m and a the massive Lewis Glacier. Arrive Austrian hut in 3hrs for hot Lunch.Overnight in the camp.
Day 5-Wake up at 0500hrs for coffee and cookies.
Proceed for a climb to point lenana 4985m a long the rocky but gentle ridge.This is the trekkers peak but its a good test before the climb on Nelion.Arrive at the summit in 1hr for sunrise.Enjoy the views of,scattered lakes, stretching valleys and ridges.A birds view of Shipton camp into the Mackinder valley will give a sense of achievement having completed a round trip of the main peaks.Retreat to the hut for Lunch.
Day 6-This is a reserve day to watch on the conditions and the weather.
Take a tour of the climbing base crossing the Lewis glacier to the start of normal route basically to evaluate a possibility of the climb the following day. After lunch in camp,scrutinize the gears.There is the option of attempting point John 4885m.This is a half day climb.
Day 7-It Should be the big Day.
Start early at 0500hrs for a timely arrival at the start of the route at sunrise to be assured of dry rocks.Pursue the climb initially characterized by scrambling.A half day swift but accurate climb,fixing of safety hooks will get you on Nelion. Assuming you are fit,Traverse the Gate of mist to the top of the highest point Batian 5199m. Make a quick retreat before its dark.There is the option of taking a Bivouac on Nelion inside the Ian Howell hut 5188m.
Day 8-Having made a Bivouac on Nelion; Anchor the rope down for a swift rappel .
Touch the base before noon to find porter waiting to assist carry the gears.Hot soup and full course Lunch at Austrian is calling.
Day 9-Start early and head East a long Chogoria route.
Stop at the Temple (Vertical wall) to take a glance of the spectacular Canyon with over hanging cliffs and a birds view of Lake Michelson from the floor of the Valley.Continue downward a long the ridge to break at the Road Head 3300m for a hot Lunch. Walk through the Hypericum bushes and Hagenia Forest to stay in Meru Mt Kenya Bandas 2950m.Over night in the bandas with hot showers.
Day 10-After breakfast
walk down the dirt road through the thick Bambo and wet rain forest to catch a jeep 10km in the jungle to chogoria town. After lunch proceed to the next destination after a successful expedition on Mt Kenya.
- Following is the basic climbing Kit:-
- A sitting Harness,
- A helmet,
- 2 standard ropes
- an ice screw (2)
- Crampons
- An ice Axe
- Warm sleeping(with a standard of extreme cold condition) Nights are cold and temperatures drop below zero.
- Climbing shoes,
- Head torch
- Gripping gloves,
- Head covers, warm clothes and wind stoppers etc
Below is the cost for the organization part of the expedition:
1-2 persons …………………………………US$2220 p/p
3-or more Persons…………………………US$ 2050 p/p
Costs Includes:
-All park entry fees,
-Hut fees and camping fees
-Porter crew to carry the luggage and food
-Porters’ transport to the mountain
-3 meals per day during the expedition on the mountain.
-Provision of water and crockery
Cost Does not Include:
-Travel insurance,
-personal equipment
-Rock Climbing fees (@US$ 650p/p)
-The ratio for climbing is at 1 guide to 2 clients.(1:2)
Conquer New Heights: Mount Kenya Rock Climbing Adventures
For adventure seekers, Mount Kenya rock climbing offers a thrilling challenge paired with breathtaking scenery. As Africa’s second-highest peak, Mount Kenya features rugged terrains and dramatic cliffs, making it a world-class destination for climbers.
Why Choose Mount Kenya for Rock Climbing?
Mount Kenya’s diverse climbing routes cater to beginners and seasoned climbers alike. Its majestic peaks, Batian, Nelion, and Lenana, provide varying levels of difficulty, ensuring every climber finds their ideal challenge. The mountain’s pristine beauty, combined with its technical routes, makes every climb an unforgettable experience.
Beyond the climbing, Mount Kenya’s unique ecosystem adds to its charm. You’ll trek through lush rainforests and alpine meadows before reaching the rocky walls, giving you a truly immersive experience in nature.
