Hiking Mt Kenya: a first-timer’s guide
Mount Kenya is Africa’s second-highest mountain. Its highest peaks need technical climbing, but Point Lenana (4,985 m) is reachable by trekkers with good fitness and no climbing experience.
How fit do I need to be?
You should be comfortable walking six to eight hours a day on uneven ground. In the weeks before your trek, do a few long hikes — Ngong Hills and Mt Longonot are good practice near Nairobi.
Altitude
Headaches and breathlessness are common above 4,000 m. Walk slowly, drink plenty of water, and tell your guide how you feel. An itinerary with an acclimatisation day makes a big difference.
What to bring
- Broken-in hiking boots
- Warm layers, gloves and a hat — it can drop below freezing at night
- A rain jacket
- A sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures (you can hire one)
- A head torch for the early summit start
Porters carry the heavy bags, so you only need a day pack. Ready to go? See our Mount Kenya trek package or ask us about dates.
