Mount Kenya National Park

Mount Kenya National Park is one of the most spectacular landscapes in East Africa. It is the only place that invites you to “Touch the Sky.” Approximately 15,000-16,000 tourists visit Mount Kenya National Park annually. The park has an area of 715km ² and has several ideal hiking points like Batian, Lenana, and Nelion. 

If you plan to go for a Mount Kenya National Park safari, contact Luxuryescapetours.com to book accommodations and transport services.  

History of Mount Kenya National Park 

Mount Kenya National Park was established in 1949 and covers an area of 715 km2. Before 1949, it was known as a forest reserve. Mount Kenya was created to protect the region’s flora and fauna. 

Also, Mount Kenya feeds two of Kenya’s largest rivers, the Tana and the Ewaso Nyiro North Rivers. It provides water to approximately a third of Kenya’s population and generates fifty percent of its hydroelectric power. 

Interesting Facts About Mount Kenya

Mount Kenya National Park surrounds Mount Kenya, the second-highest mountain in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro. In addition, Mount Kenya has a diameter of 120km and three peaks: Mount Kenya summit Batian (5199m), Nelion (5188m), and Lenana (4985m). It is a stratovolcano that was formed 2.6 – 3.1 million years ago after various volcanic eruptions and glacial activities. 

Originally, Mount Kenya was around 6000 meters tall, but glacial erosion has affected its height. Tourists can climb up to the Nelion and Lenana peaks through the Naro Moru or Chogoria route.

Cultural Significance of Mount Kenya Africa

Mount Kenya Africa plays a significant role in the community. Before colonialism, the Bantu tribes of Agikuyu, Ameru, Akamba, Aembu, and Maasai believed their God, “Ngai” lived on the mountain. These tribes considered Mount Kenya a sacred site and prayed while facing it.  The local communities also made sacrifices and other rituals on the mountain.

In addition, the southern and eastern slopes of the mountain facilitate the growth of rainforests, which contain valuable hardwoods like camphor and bamboo. 

The forests preserve the region’s biodiversity and ecosystems. In addition, forests also absorb greenhouse gasses that contribute to global warming. Likewise, local community members get herbs, wild fruits, honey, and dry firewood from Mount Kenya’s forests. 

Other herbs and trees of nutritional value that grow in the forest include aloe vera, neem, fever tree bark, and wild berries. 

Mount Kenya’s Importance to Kenya

Mount Kenya Africa plays an important role in Kenya’s history. When Kenya became a republic on 12th December 1964, a team of twelve mountaineers led by the late Kisoi Munyao climbed the mountain. 

Kisoi Muyaoe hoisted the  Kenyan flag on top of the mountain as a symbol of independence after years of struggle,  resilience, and resistance. Subsequently, other symbolic “Mount Kenya Climbs” have been performed, such as in 2013 when Kenya celebrated fifty years of being a republic.

UNESCO Recognition of Mount Kenya National Park

UNESCO  has recognized Mount Kenya National Park in two different events. The first was in April 1978, when UNESCO recognized Mount Kenya National Park and the adjacent forest Reserve as a designated biosphere reserve under the “Man and Biosphere program”.

UNESCO launched the “Man and Biosphere program” in the early 1970s to conserve biological diversity. The program collaborates with governments, scientists,  and local communities to preserve natural resources.

The second time Mount Kenya Africa was recognized was in 1997 when the park was listed as a World Natural Heritage Site on the World Heritage list. This was a great honor to the park as there are only 266 UNESCO-listed sites worldwide. UNESCO acknowledges the Park and its surrounding region for its rich ecology, biodiversity, and cultural value.

Similarly, Lake Nakuru National Park has also been recognized by UNESCO.

Things to do at Mount Kenya National Park

1. Climbing Mount Kenya Peaks

If you are interested in a safari adventure like no other, try climbing to any of the available Mount Kenya Peaks. Climbing a Mount Kenya Peak, such as the Lenana summit, takes approximately four to six days, depending on the route, resilience, and physical fitness.

In addition, the higher altitudes of the mountains are cold, and one should invest in warm clothes and other essential mountain climbing gear. There are several routes that a Mount Kenya Peak climber can use to reach the Lenana summit.

Climbing Lenana Peak:

Additionally, the easiest route to reach Lenana Peak is through the Sirimon route. The pathway on this route is gentle, and it takes approximately four days to reach the summit. 

Hikers using this route witness valleys and smaller peaks. It is a preferred route for beginners climbing the mountain for the first time.

In addition, the most popular route is the Naru Moru route. Climbers using this route take approximately five days to reach the Lenana point.

Alternatively, Mount Kenya Peak climbers can use the  Chogoria route. However, the Chogoria route is longer, and it takes six days to reach Lenana Point. The scenic features on this route include Lake Michaelson and Lake Ellis.

Climbing Nelion Peak:

It may take three to five days to reach Nelion Peak. The most common route for ascent and descent is the Northwest Face Standard Route. The terrain of this route includes steep rocks and exposed ridges. 

Nelion Peak is best used by experienced climbers because of its rugged terrain. 

Climbing Batian Peak:

Batian Peak {Mount Kenya Summit} is only climbed by the best climbers in the country. To reach it, you have to go through Lenana Peak. Here, you are likely to suffer from altitude sickness and severe weather conditions. The most popular route followed is the North face standard route.

2. Bird Watching in Mount Kenya

Mount Kenya National Park is home to many bird species. If you are a bird enthusiast, bringing a good set of binoculars and a Mt Kenya map is best. The park has experienced guides who will help you identify the many bird species found in the area. The best times to spot different bird species are during the mornings and late evenings when the sun is just about to set.

Mount Kenya’s Bamboo forests host endemic bird species like the Cisticola and Sunbird. Mount Kenya Africa also hosts high-altitude terrain birds like the black kite, griffon vulture, and golden eagle. These high-altitude birds are excellent at flying and have perfect eyesight.

One of the most scenic sites for bird watching is the Castle forest. The forest has different habitats, which range from montane to bamboo forests, creating ideal environments for large bird species. 

3. Game Viewing in Mount Kenya National Park

Tourists can go on a game drive safari in Mount Kenya National Park using a four-wheel-drive vehicle and a tour guide. The best time for a game drive is early morning or evening. 

The wildlife species in Mt Kenya are spotted in the lower altitude areas. Some of the animals found in Mt Kenya park include buffaloes, lions, zebras, elephants, rhinos, antelopes, waterbucks, and gazelles

4. Camping Safari in Mount Kenya Park

There are nice camping sites along Mount Kenya National Park and its surroundings. The main factors affecting the camping fee are the time of the year a person is camping and the availability of camping sites. 

The camping site fee ranges between 10-50 dollars per night, depending on the amenities provided. Most camping sites provide basic amenities like bathrooms, toilets, water, and a kitchen area. Some camping sites do not require booking, while others require booking.

The most popular camping sites around Mount Kenya Africa are Old Moses Camp, Shipton’s Camp, and Mackinder’s Camp.

Old Moses camp is located along the Sirimon route at the base of the mountain. Most climbers camp here before the mountain ascent. This campsite provides basic camping equipment.

In addition, Shipton’s camp is also located along the Sirimon route but at a higher altitude of 4200m above sea level. The camp is made up of simple wooden buildings, including a dormitory, a kitchen, a dining area, and basic facilities. 

Lastly, Mackinder’s camp is a high-altitude camp located along the Naro Moru Route. Similar to Shipton’s Camp, Mackinder’s Camp offers basic wooden accommodations, including a dormitory, a kitchen, and a dining room. Camping equipment is also available.

5. Fishing in Mount Kenya National Park

There are several spots that facilitate fishing activity in Mount Kenya Park. Flying fish trip activity is done in Lake Rutundu, Lake Michaelson, River Nithi, River Kizito, and Lake Ellis. The main fish species caught in these water bodies is rainbow trout. 

The average weight of the fish is a kilogram, while larger fish weigh up to two kilograms. Fishing boats and fishing gear are provided in some fishing sites, while others require one to come with their fishing equipment.

6. Visiting Pre-historic Sites in Mount Kenya Africa

Mount Kenya Africa has several prehistoric sites one of them being the Mau Mau caves. The caves played an important role during pre-colonial times. The present cavern was initially a dense forest used as a hideout for the Mau Mau Kenyan freedom fighters.

 In 1959, British forces discovered the hideout and bombed it. Approximately two hundred people lost their lives, and their remains are still visible. The spot was gazetted in 2003 as Kenya’s national monument.

2024 Mt Kenya National Park Entry Fees

The tables below show the updated 2024 park entry fee price for residents and non-residents, according to KWS.

1. EAC Citizen/ resident park entry fee

Rest of Africa park entry fees

1. International Visitors Park Entry Fee

How to Access Mount Kenya National Park

Mt Kenya National Park has six entry gates that are located in different parts of the park. The Naro Moru gate is located on the western side and is accessible from Nyeri town. The second gate, known as Kihari, is situated on the southern slopes of Mt. Kenya near Naro Moru town.  

The third gate, known as the Mawingu gate, is found on the southern, eastern side of the park, near Chogoria. The fourth entry point is through the Sirimon gate, located on the Northwestern side of the park. This gate is accessible from Nanyuki. 

In addition, there is the Kamweti gate, which is located on the Northern side of the park. Like Naro Moru gate, it is accessible from Nyeri.  Lastly, the Chogoria gate is on the park’s Eastern side.

Park Entry Rules for Mount Kenya Park Visitors

•  For a safe and enriching experience, visitors should have a certified guide. Look for their park-issued ID cards for verification.  
• Plastic water bottles that are non-disposable are not allowed in the park. 
• Porters cannot carry more than 25  kg of luggage. Park staff will weigh luggage at the entrance. 
•  Park management requires all visitors to record their details at the entry and exit points. 

Luxurious Accommodation around Mount Kenya National Park

Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club

If you are looking for a luxurious five-star hotel around Mount Kenya National Park,  Mount Kenya Safari Club Nanyuki is the place to be.

This Mount Kenya Safari Club occupies one hundred acres of land filled with gardens, ponds, forests, and 120  luxurious guest houses and suites. Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club Kenya offers a variety of foods, such as Gourmet dining and international cuisines.

similary, tourists at the club can choose to dine in the wild or indoors. 

Activities Offered by Mount Kenya Safari Club

1. Visiting an Animal Orphanage 

The nearby animal orphanage offers opportunities to learn and engage with rescued animals such as elephants, lions, and cheetahs.  The animal orphanage is open from 10 am – 5 pm, and locals pay 1000 Kenyan shillings while foreigners pay 40USD.

2. Horse riding

Guests explore the environment surrounding the hotel on horseback, experiencing a variety of wildlife and fauna. Horse riding is an excellent approach to interacting with nature and appreciating the beauty of Kenyan landscapes.

3. Kids and Teen Club

Kids and teenagers are engaged in activities, games, and supervision that make a wonderful experience for them. They also try extraordinary cuisines prepared by the chefs.

4. Bird watching

There are more than 400 bird species around the Mount Kenya Safari Club. Some of the birds that you will see include the gray-crowned crane, the white-faced whistling duck, and the bearded vulture.

5. Swimming

Mount Kenya Fairmont Safari Club has a heated pool. You can take a swim with scenic views of the mountains around you.

6. Tennis

Apart from swimming, Mount Kenya Safari Club has a tennis court. You can have a friendly match with friends and family. 

7. Cycling 

Guests at Mount Kenya Safari Club Nanyuki can explore the surrounding areas through cycling. A tour guide accompanies the guests during their adventure.

8. Yoga

Visitors can have a mindful session while doing yoga. They also connect to nature during these sessions.

Mt. Kenya plane peak tour: Guests embark on a thrilling aerial adventure with a scenic plane tour over Mount Kenya. Scenes from an aerial view are beautiful and spectacular.

9. Folk dance shows.

Mount Kenya Safari Club Tourists are greeted by folk dances and a vibrant display of Kenyan culture by watching a traditional folk dance show in the evenings. The dancers showcase rhythmic movements, colorful costumes, and lively music.

In conclusion, contact one of our local tour guides to plan a memorable Mount Kenya National Park safari. The guide will create a customized safari and ensure your needs are fulfilled.