Hiking and climbing.
Come to clamber up Kenya’s tallest mountain? Then, you’re in the right place.
This part of the world is hugely popular with hikers and climbers coming to explore the area around Mount Kenya or to hike to it’s highest peaks.
If you are a climber or the thought of getting your blood pumping with an adventurous hike excites you, then the Ikweta Collection properties are your perfect launching pad.
Located at the start point to one of Mt. Kenya’s most famous hiking routes - the Naro Moru route - Ikweta Collection guests couldn’t be better situated for the climb up Mt. Kenya.
If hiking the mountain doesn’t strike your fancy there are many other options available to all level of hiking adventurer.
Looking for something otherworldly?
Standing at 5,199 meters (17,058 feet) above sea level, Mt. Kenya is the tallest mountain in Kenya and second only to Mt. Kilimanjaro for primacy on the continent. It’s secluding height and the fact that it is a protected area - gazetted as Mt. Kenya National Park - gives it this otherworldly feel and has made it a must-see for tourists visiting the area.
Mt. Kenya is about 200 km from Nairobi and owing to its being a home to wildlife and the interesting topography that covers its slopes, its an ideal getaway for hikers, walking safari-goers, climbers, birders, horse-riders and all manner of other outdoorsfolk.
Hiking or climbing Mt. Kenya FAQs
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Climbing and hiking Mt. Kenya are such great activities because of the fact that there area great many routes. There is something for everyone.
The Naro Moru route (which starts nearby the Ikweta Collection properties) is a nice easy 3-day hike that will get you to Mt. Kenya's third tallest peak, Lenana.
The other two peaks, Batian and Nelion, are for more technically aware climbers. You'll require grappling gear for these ascents.
Hiking is available for those who don't want to climb the mountain.
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Different times of year will pose different levels of excitement and adventure. There's no settled decision on which time of year is best.
However, generally, from March through to late May, we expect heavier rainfall and that can make the already chilly traverse that little bit colder.
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The Mt. Kenya National Park and the surrounding Mt. Kenya Forest Reserve provide local wildlife certain protections.
As a result, the area is home to certain big game. Though they tend to avoid humans, you may well spot elephant or buffalo from a distance. You also share the park with lion and leopard though they will be difficult to spot.
For birders, there is a whole host of interesting birds living in the lower forest and higher, amongst foresting bamboo.
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Hiking on Mt. Kenya can take as long as you want. Hiking up it, to one of the peaks, takes several days.
How many days exactly will depend on you, your walking safari operator and the choice of route you make.
There are 7 established routes up the mountain. Each of which has its specific plus points so consider your routes carefully when you come to planning your hike up Mt. Kenya.