Mount Kenya

Mount Kenya is Africa’s second-highest mountain, rising to 5,199 metres at Batian. It is an ancient extinct volcano with three main peaks—Batian, Nelion and Point Lenana. Its rugged landscape features steep cliffs, rocky ridges, U-shaped valleys, moraines, high-altitude tarns and 12 remaining glaciers, which are rapidly retreating.

The mountain has distinct vegetation zones, from montane forests and bamboo to giant heather, moorlands and unique Afro-alpine plants such as giant lobelias and groundsels. Its forests and surrounding ecosystems support elephants, buffaloes, leopards, black rhinos, primates and many bird species, while its slopes form an important water catchment. Mount Kenya is also culturally significant to local communities and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

5,199 m

Altitude

3 Counties

Location

Moderate

Difficulty

Jan–Mar

Best Season

UNESCO

World Heritage

Overview

Mount Kenya is Africa’s second-highest mountain, rising to 5,199 metres at Batian, its highest peak. This ancient extinct volcano is characterised by its three main peaks—Batian, Nelion and Point Lenana—as well as rugged cliffs, valleys, glaciers, tarns and volcanic formations. Its slopes contain diverse ecosystems ranging from montane forests and bamboo forests to giant heather and unique Afro-alpine moorlands with giant lobelias and groundsels.

The mountain is an important water catchment, wildlife habitat and cultural landscape, supporting species such as elephants, buffaloes, leopards and many birds, and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

Mount Kenya

Why Visit?

If you are experienced mountaineer, curious explorer or looking for breathtaking scenery, Mount Kenya offers unforgettable experiences like hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, bird watching and spectacular sunrises.

"Watching the sunrise from Point Lenana is one of Africa's most unforgettable experiences."

Popular Activities

  • Mountain hiking
  • Camping
  • Photography
  • Bird watching
  • Nature walks & trails
  • Rock climbing
  • Fishing