Mount Kenya Climbing Safaris

For information only. Because of Mount Kenya’s unique position on the equator, climbing seasons and route conditions vary with the sun’s position. For example, a climber interested in doing one of the best ice routes, which are on the south side of the mountain, should climb when the sun is in the north, between the months of June and December. However, during the same period the east and north sides are in the best condition for rock climbing. Conversely, when the sun is in the south, the south side offers the best rock routes and north the better ice climbing conditions.

How hard is it to climb Mount Kenya?
The technical ascent of Nelion or Batian require good technical climbing experience but Point Lenana can be climbed by most people, you just need to have good general fitness and the correct equipment, read up on health and altitude in the mountains, acclimatising safely and our Mount Kenya advice.

Cultural importance of Mount Kenya
Mount Kenya holds deep cultural value in the eyes of the Kenyan people. Local tribes have use this peak as a meeting place and it is seen as a throne of the gods. This mountain gave the country of Kenya its name and it holds a special place in the heart of all Kenyans.

Recommended routes December-March: Normal Route, Standard IV (rock: South West Ridge, Standard V (rock routes). JUNE-SEPTEMBER North Face, Standard IV (rock Route). AUGUST-DECEMBER South Face, Standard IV, Ice Window, Standard V (ice routes). Trout fishing: Trout first came to Kenya in 1905 and were introduced by the late Ewart Grogan who planted them in the Gura River High up in the Aberdare National Park. There must be some forty rivers around Mount Kenya stocked with either rainbow or brown trout. The Naro Moru River Lodge stocks its streams three or four times a year.

Wet fly fishing is the most popular, but there are one or two places which afford excellent dry fly fishing for the purist, Kenya trout are drift feeders and during the day lie up in the fast water at the head of pools, Moving down to the tail-end in the evening, where they usually start feeding off the surface. Owing to the close proximity of trees and bushes, the recommended cast on most rivers is the roll cast and the fly can be presented either up or down stream and cross according to conditions. Wanders are not necessary in Kenya as most of the fishing can be done from the bank.

To fish for trout in Kenya, a Government Trout License is required. These licences vary from in cost. These licences can be obtained from our Mountain Operations store or any Government Inland Revenue Office. In addition to the Trout Licence a trout permit is required to fish the Naro Moru River Lodge area and for five miles below the lodge. If you are new to this sport of trout fishing we are willing to help you make your first cast. Also remember that if you are full board client, our kitchen staff will gladly cook your catch at no extra charge. Good Luck and good fishing!

General information
Lodge facilities
Accommodation ranges from full board Standard rooms, Superior, Deluxe, Cottages, Country Homes to mountain climbers’ bunkhouse and camping.

Self-service log cabins are available for parties of two to seven, ideal for families and those wishing to prepare their own meals. Cooking and dining facilities are provided, as well as bathroom and W.C. However, self-service clients can still take their meals in the restaurant, have use of the bar and enjoy our outdoor grill. Climber’s bunkhouses are equipped with wooden bunks and mattresses, a shared cooking area, showers and W.C. The campsite located near the bunkhouses, enjoys the same facilities. The lodge restaurant features international cuisine with friendly service and an informal atmosphere. We also have a deck level swimming pool, Sauna, Tennis and Squash courts, plus a nature trail. In addition to these we have the outdoor Naro Moru River Lodge Challenge course.

Health and fitness requirements
Anyone contemplating one of our expeditions should take regular exercise. It is recommended that you start a training programme at least one, if not two months before your safari.
“Running, swimming, cycling and stair-climbing are all good ways of toning up muscles.”

Seasons for climbing Mount Kenya
It has been generally accepted that our climbing seasons are from mid-December to mind- March and from mid-June-to the end of September.
However, these traditional weather patterns seem to be the exception rather than the rule: the chances of encountering good weather on the mountain seem to be about equal throughout the year, so the timing of your safari is not as critical as once was.

Guides
Our professional local guides provide quality service on all our safaris.

Food: All meals for the treks is either fresh or tinned. The porters and guides are trained in cookery and service.

Disclaimer:
Mountain climbing may be hazardous. Always take advice from your guide.

1. Pole Pole (Swahili for “go slowly”).
2. Take time to acclimatize
3. Eat well.
4. Drink lots of fluids. Tea is considered “dawa ya mlima”(Swahili for “medicine of the mountain).

A word of warning
No one is suffering from respiratory infections, colds, cough or a temperature should go higher than 9000 feet. Children under 10 years of age are not allowed higher than this. Many climbers get high altitude sickness which is quite normal although uncomfortable.

Gear and kit required to climb mountain
Aside from personal articles, having the right layering and clothing is key for climbing Mount Kenya. Having a few moisture-wicking, non-cotton layers are essential. Furthermore, you will want an insulating layer like a puffy jacket, hat and gloves for higher elevations. Mount Kenya does get rain and snow, so a waterproof layer and gaiters are useful for keeping the wind and rain at bay. If you are climbing Nelion or Batian peaks, you are responsible for bringing your own trad racks, ropes, harness, helmet, cams and anchoring systems.

Please you are advised for your enjoyment and comfort to carry the following items.
Anorak, Fleece, Training Shoes, Waterproof Jacket, Shirts, Skirts, Socks, Gloves, Sun Hat, Balaclava/Woolen Hat, Gaiters, Thermal, Towel, Toiletries, Toilet paper, Sun Glasses, Snow Goggles, Mineral Water, Walking Pole, Crampons, Torch/Flash Light, Sun cream/Sun Block, Lip Salve, Whistle, Penknife, Day Pack, Camera, Films emergency foil blanket, Four season sleeping bags, Water Purification Kit and First Aid Kit.