Breathtaking Mount Kenya Climbing Tours

Mount Kenya is located within the Mount Kenya National Park in central Kenya, approximately 150 kilometres (90 mi) north-northeast of the capital city, Nairobi.  The nearest town is Nanyuki.  The nearest international airport is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport outside Nairobi.  In some cases, the tour operator will provide an airport transfer to and from the mountain.  Alternatively, there are public transport, taxis or car rental options.

Yes.  Most foreign nationals require a visa for entry into Kenya.  These can be obtained online or at a Kenyan diplomatic mission abroad.  Your travel specialist can provide further information regarding particular visa requirements for your nationality.

Mount Kenya is open to climbers throughout the year.  Historically, the wet seasons occur in April-May and November, although the rainfall is unpredictable due to climate change.  

Climbing Mount Kenya is best undertaken during the dry season; either from January to March or June to October.  

With short and long trek options, anybody able to walk several hours per day over several days may attempt to summit, with a minimum age of 7 years.  However, for the two “technical” routes, participants will need to be versed in Grade V (European Hard Server) climbing, requiring ropework and technical skills.

FlashMc Tours climbing packages for Mount Kenya range between US$535 (over 4 days) and $1100 (over 7 days).  These prices include road transfers, trek accommodation, meals, emergency cover, guide and porter services, equipment rental, applicable taxes, levies and entry fees.

This depends on the route used.  Participants sleep in camping tents or huts.  On arrival at each camp, the support team will provide meals and refreshments.  Each camp has ablution facilities.

No.  All necessary camping equipment is provided for, as are tents on applicable packages.

To ensure participants are well nourished for stamina, ample food is provided.  Three meals are provided per day.  With advance notice, all dietary requirements can be catered for.

The best route depends on individual experience and preferences.  The Sirimon-Chogoria traverse uses a gradual ascent (for acclimatization) and is scenically beautiful.  The Naro Moru Route is quickest but much more challenging.

This will depend entirely on the route.  On average, it takes between 4 to 6 days.  Please remember, especially inexperienced climbers, that the more time that is spent acclimatizing to high altitude, the higher the probability of successfully reaching the summit without the risk of altitude sickness.

Yes, according to the Kenya Wildlife Service, all people attempting to climb the mountain need to be accompanied by a guide and support team.  

Experienced professionals, are there to safely guide you along your route and assist with acclimatization strategies.  All climbers must register their departure with the park’s authority and sign in at each campsite.

Depending on your level of fitness, you will need to prepare physically and mentally for this challenging climb.  This could involve cardiovascular, strength and endurance training that targets the various muscle groups needed for multi-day trekking; including legs, core and upper body.  For the walking treks, try to simulate hiking conditions and if possible, get practice at high altitudes.  Specific training and preparation are essential for the technical climbing routes.  We advise you to get a medical assessment before to ensure readiness for the climb.

Yes.  Altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness) whose symptoms include headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite and shortness of breath, as well as High Altitude Pulmonary Edema and Cerebral Edema can occur above 2500 metres (8200 ft).  There is also the risk of gastrointestinal complaints and injuries typical of outdoor activities.  For this reason, we recommend selecting a reputable operator equipped to deal with all eventualities.

Yes.  Travel insurance protects individuals against financial loss in the event of unforeseen travel issues.  Ensure that your coverage includes possible hospitalization and repatriation expenses.

All visitors to Kenya either from or via a Yellow Fever endemic country must provide proof of vaccination.  Immunization against Rabies, Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid and Tetanus is recommended.  Obtain further guidance from your local travel clinic.  Remember, Kenya is a malaria zone, so you should seek guidance on anti-malaria measures and prophylaxis.

This depends on the route taken but generally, it involves an early start with breakfast served.  Thereafter you will hike for several hours (+/_ 6 hours) before reaching your next camp in time for lunch.  It is a good idea to do an acclimatization walk to adjust to altitude in the afternoon before returning to camp for dinner and rest.

Tipping guides and support staff for good service is the norm in Kenya, although not mandatory.  Please bear in mind the hard work and sacrifices made to ensure the success of the trip when deciding how much to give.  Our suggestion is US$20 per person per day for the mountain guide and $10 per person per day for each member of the support team.

Do not litter or discard anything on the mountain.  Everything taken onto the mountain is noted by authorities, so you can assist your support team in avoiding penalties for non-compliance by doing your part.  Stay on the designated trails and campsites to protect the sensitive environment.  Use a reusable water bottle or hydration pack.  

Although luggage and equipment is carried by porters, be mindful of space and weight considerations.  That said, it is better to have something and not need it, preferably clothing and gear that you have previously field tested.  To give you an idea of what to pack, read our suggested packing list for Mount Kilimanjaro.

Upon celebrating the end of your trek, you might want to spend a night or two at a comfortable establishment in Nanyuki or surroundings.  Ask about the availability of massages to treat tired limbs.  FlashMc Tours will happily provide further information about the various safari and beach vacation options available in Kenya and East Africa.