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Mount Kenya seen from the Teleki Valley (Picture: Felix Berg) | © SummitClimb (c) Felix Berg

Mount Kenya Climb - the true summit

We are your experts for mountains in Africa. Come along and climb Mount Kenya with us:
✪ Alpine tour at 5000m+ 
✪ Enjoyable gneiss, beautiful rock
✪ Ascent of the "real" Mount Kenya

Facts

Country
Kenya
Altitude
5189 m
Difficulty
Trip dates
01.07.2025 - 09.07.2025
Booking status
from €3,295.00
Book
SummitClimb Gruppe beim Einstieg zur Mackinders-Route am Nelion, Mount Kenia | © SummitClimb Felix Berg

Overview

Mount Kenya: With the twin peaks of Batian (5199m) and Nelion (5189m), Mount Kenya is the second highest mountain in Africa. Easy and scenic trekking leads to the foot of Mount Kenya. Most "ascents" for trekkers end at Point Lenana (4985m). But we climb the highest two peaks. An adventurous route and untouched nature off the beaten track awaits you. Our 9-day trip gives you a good chance to climb the main peak Batian (5199m) in a reasonable time: the ascent of the "real" Mount Kenya. Since 2002 we have climbed Mount Kenya several times a year and offer you deep expertise together with a highly-experienced team.

See Map

Mount Kenya Climb

For this climbing trip, we plan to climb Mount Kenya via one of the normal routes. In summer (June till September), the North Face Normal Route leads directly to the summit of Batian. In winter (December till March), the ascent via the standard route first leads to Nelion, followed by a traverse to Batian. Both routes have sections up to UIAA 4th degree of difficulty and an alpine character, many beautiful and exposed passages.

Climbing in a rope team on the final meters to Batian (5,199 m).

Mount Kenya Ascent – Your, Our "Expedition"

Mount Kenya is Africa’s second-highest mountain after Kilimanjaro. Its highest peaks, Nelion (5,189 m) and Batian (5,199 m), are reserved for climbers. The up to 700-meter-high walls of pristine gneiss create a rock climbing paradise with a strong sense of adventure. Routes starting at grade 5.6 (YDS) / UIAA IV lead to the summit of Mount Kenya. Further details about the normal routes can be found in the itinerary, with additional route information under "Details." We are happy to provide a customized offer for a special Mount Kenya expedition. This climbing trip focuses on reaching the main summit.

In just a 9-day trip, this program gives you a solid chance to climb Mount Kenya. The routes are rarely climbed (about 50 ascents per year), but this is not a traditional expedition. The journey from Nairobi is adventurous but relatively short. The route is predictable, and we complete several ascents each year. Unlike a standard commercial expedition, the ascent is done in an alpine style without fixed ropes.


Mountaineer Felix Berg guiding on Mount Kenya's South West Ridge | © SummitClimb Kenya
CEO Felix Berg on the SW-ridge to Batian.

Why with SummitClimb?

 

We are one of the only international providers with extensive expertise on Mount Kenya. Many of our expedition leaders have climbed the mountain, and Felix Berg’s unique training program for our Kenyan guides and the Mount Kenya rescue team sets us apart. Combined with precise organization and excellent mountain cuisine, you’ll be well cared for during your Mount Kenya trip.

Together to the summit: The Mount Kenya ascent (climbing) takes place simultaneously with the trekking trip, often resulting in mixed groups. This ensures the trip’s feasibility and fosters a positive group atmosphere. Typically, only 2 to 6 climbers participate, keeping the route uncrowded. In just a 9-day climbing trip, this program offers a solid chance to summit Mount Kenya. The routes are rarely climbed (around 50 ascents per year), but our "Mount Kenya Climb" is not a traditional expedition. The journey from Nairobi is adventurous yet manageable. The route is predictable, and we run multiple group trips to Mount Kenya each year. Unlike standard commercial expeditions, the ascent is done in alpine style without fixed ropes.

 

 Enjoy more: After the climb, you can unwind on safari or at the beach, or extend your adventure with the proven Kilimanjaro program (Western Breach, Crater Camp, +10 days).

Tourverlauf Mount Kenia Besteigung (9 Days)

Planned Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival by flight and transfer to hotel in Nairobi, bed & breakfast.

Day 2: Full day to relax, sightseeing in Nairobi (National Park, Bomas), last shopping (snacks, etc.) and climbing training in Lukenya, approx. 1 hour drive outside of Nairobi. In the evening dinner together with tour briefing and meeting of all group participants.

 

 

Together with the SummitClimb Mount Kenya trekking group, we ascend along the trekking route. Along the way, mountain guides and participants of the climbing trip will discuss the ascent and practice theoretical basics (safety techniques, commands).

Day 3 - Chogoria: Drive to the mountain and hike to the campsite (overnight/full board) - 3,000 m
Day 4 - Lake Ellis: Arrival at the next camp - approximately 3,500 m
Day 5 - Lake Michaelson: Hike to almost 4,300 m, great for acclimatization and optional climbing training, descent to camp - around 4,000 m
Day 6 - Point Lenana: Climb to the nearly 5,000 m high Point Lenana (4,985 m), perfect for acclimatization. Then you descend to the starting point for the climbing tour.

The climbing route depends on the season, with the descent as follows:

  • Winter (December - March): To Austrian Hut or possibly American Camp or MacKinder's Hut.
  • Summer (June - September): To Shipton’s Camp / Shipton's Hut.

Today we plan to climb Batian (5199m). We get up early in the morning to be at the start of the route by the first sunlight. 

  • Winter: The ascent along the Nelion Normal Route begins easily, so we gain altitude quickly. Past MacKinder's Gendarme the most difficult rope length is waiting for us (rock UIAA 4), then we follow block terrain with two spots of (rock UIAA 3rd degree) of difficulty to the summit of Nelion (5189m). Before we traverse to Batian, we have to abseil into the Gate of the Mists and then climb up a short ridge (UIAA3) to Batian (5199m). For the descent from Nelion we abseil over the Austrian rescue line.
  • Summer: The very first rope length offers a key passage (UIAA 4) and is the first challenge with numb fingers. After that easier terrain leads through a couloir to the amphitheater (until then there we have significant risk of falling rocks), over Firmin's Tower (short pitch UIAA 4) to the west ridge. The ridge runs long past Shipton's Notch to the main summit of Batian (5199m). The descent is along the ascent route by abseiling and climbing down.

We plan to descend together with the trekking group:

  • winter via the Naro Moru
  • summer via the Naro Moru route

Return flight: Transfer to Nairobi International Airport (NBO) for your return flight ideally later in the day/evening (to have some reserve time).

Enjoy Kenya: Alternatively, you can drive or fly to a safari or the beach. We’re happy to extend your program. A group safari to Amboseli National Park is always offered afterward, but there are many other options, either as a group or individually.

Prepare

Mount Kenya Climb

We gladly assist advanced climbing beginners and experienced alpinists alike in preparing for a Mount Kenya ascent. We provide advice on preparation and training, rope up with skilled climbers, and support experts in realizing their dream route on Mount Kenya.

Temperatures

From tropical (+30°C) to alpine (-15°C). For the ascent of Nelion/Batian, the typical conditions are:
- At night and early morning, around -5°C
- During the day, around 0°C, warmer in the sun
-With a wind-chill factor, it can feel as cold as -10°C.

Gear

To participate in the Mount Kenya climbing trip, each participant needs the recommended personal equipment (PDF list available for download).

Participation requirements

Skills climbing
Stamina / Endurance
  • Sonnenaufgang in der Mackinders (Normalroute) am Mount Kenia | © SummitClimb Felix Berg

    Technical Skills

    Experience in belaying techniques, independent rappelling, and climbing skills up to 5.6 (YDS) on second (in alpine terrain) are required. On the summit day, you can expect:

    • Nelion, South (Winter dates): ~350 meters elevation gain and ~700 meters of climbing, two 5.6 sections, 5.4–5.5 passages, and extensive scrambling (South side, Nelion: Winter dates).
    • Traverse to Batian: ~50 meters of ascent and descent, ice/snow up to 45°, and one 5.3 section.
    • Batian, North (Summer dates): ~450 meters elevation gain and ~900 meters of climbing, three 5.6 sections, 5.4–5.5 passages, and extensive scrambling.

    Note: These details are for the standard routes. We are happy to advise on more challenging options.

  • Endurance

    While trekking to the mountain, you should expect daily stages of 3 to 7 hours at a moderate pace, which should be manageable. The ascent of Batian (5,199 m) can take up to 15 hours, requiring corresponding endurance. Including ascent and descend we have around 1,000 meters / 3300 feet of elevation gain.

    • Nelion, South Route: Climbing with average fitness takes 4–6 hours; an additional 2 hours for the traverse to Batian.
    • Batian, North Route: Climbing with average fitness takes 6–8 hours.
    • Reserve time: For the subsequent descent with abseiling.
     
  • Kenya Red Tape

     

    Kenya ETA: All travelers (except Kenyan nationals and citizens of East African Community partner states) must apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) before entering Kenya. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months upon entry.

    No vaccinations are required (except yellow fever if traveling from a yellow fever zone within the last 6 months).

    For some general travel advice for Kenya please check:

How to climb Mount Kenya

SouthEast-route to Nelion (5189m) and traverse to Batian (5199m)

Northface Standard to Batian (5199m)

The choice of route primarily depends on the fact that from late December to March, the south side of Mount Kenya is drier, while from June to September, the north side is better suited for climbing. Thus, in winter, one ascends via the southeast side over Nelion to Batian. In summer, directly via the north side to Batian.

North (Summer) or South (Winter): Fundamentally, the winter ascent has the advantage that one quickly reaches the first summit at Nelion—a summit experience!—and there is a bolted rappelling route. Generally, the winter route is also somewhat less prone to rockfall than the north-side ascent. On the summer route, however, one goes directly to Batian.

The Chogoria Route (trekking to Mount Kenya) along the impressive Nithi Gorge is recommended for all visitors who are at Mount Kenya for the first time. The climbing trip takes place simultaneously with the Mount Kenya trekking, so we share the common infrastructure and save costs accordingly. The Naro Moru Route is the shortest route to the base of the main peaks. The north-side Sirimon Route is a bit longer. These two routes are then suitable for the descent.

Further route suggestions for more ambitious mountaineers are:

Batian, West Ridge (Winter or Summer): Very elegant, long alpine ridge. Info: 1,640 feet elevation gain, 5,905 feet climbing distance, one section 5.9 (UIAA V+), passages 5.2-5.6 (UIAA II-IV), lots of block terrain, 12-14 hours (possible bivouac).

Batian, South-West Ridge (Winter): Long alpine tour. Info: 1,640 feet elevation gain, 3,937 feet climbing distance, passages 5.4-5.6 (UIAA III-IV), lots of block terrain, 8-12 hours. Descent via Gate of the Mists to Nelion (possible bivouac in the Howell Hut), then mostly rappelling (descent along the normal route).

Batian, Diamond Pillar (Winter): Direct and elegant line to the summit of Batian. Standard route: Ascent along the right wall side through a steep crack system. Info: 1,640 feet elevation gain, 2,296 feet climbing distance, sections 5.11d (UIAA VII), longer passages 5.10b/c (UIAA VI). Descent from Batian via Nelion along the normal route. There are also other lines through the Diamond Buttress. The route Equator (free up to 5.12b/c (UIAA VIII-/VIII)) follows the central part of the pillar past a smooth slab inclusion (The Shield), mostly crack climbing. In the left pillar part, there are two artificial routes.

Nelion, Northeast Pillar (Summer): Great classic line left of the large couloir to Batian. Info: approx. 1,968 feet climbing distance, 1,640 feet elevation gain. Over slabs to a crack and chimney system (some pitches 5.10a/b (VI+)).

Nelion, East Pillar (Summer): Great lines to the summit of Nelion, perfect cracks, and exposed climbing. Info: Routes like East Gate (5.9 (UIAA V+), 1,640 feet), Eastern Groove (5.10a/b (UIAA VI+), 1,804 feet) and East Face (5.11d (UIAA VII), 1,640 feet).

Nelion, East Face (Summer or Winter): Modern, partly brittle, and bolt-scarred lines. Info: 1,640 feet, 2-3 routes (one German from 2007, but there are also two older lines), difficulties from 5.11d (UIAA VII).

Point John, Southeast Edge (Winter, possibly Summer): Beautiful rock climbing - wonderful gneiss. Info: Entry from the side of Lewis Tarn, 820 feet, passages up to 5.5 (III+), approx. 4-6 hours. Descent by rappelling.

Point John, Southwest Face (Winter): Currently the most difficult free climbing tours on Mt. Kenya. Info: Routes from 5.12c (UIAA VIII+) / partly artificial climbing, cracks, and overhangs.

Migiot Peak (Winter): Good introductory routes (492-656 feet) from 5.8 (UIAA V )to 5.11d (UIAA VII+).

A private tour within this trip or afterwards is possible for an additional fee. Individual tours can be conducted on other dates or special routes can be arranged: offer upon request. We are happy to accommodate your ideas.

They are the best in Kenya. With their experience on the normal routes, some with over 100 ascents, they know these routes well. Of course, the mountain guides on Mount Kenya do not have the training and routine like on European or American UIAGM/IVBV-level. The mountain might offer 15-20 guiding days per year, while we can easily work 150 days. Also, climbing there is a profession, starting as a porter, whereas most of our international mountain guides come from sports (with a much higher climbing level).

Felix Berg training the KWS mountain rescue team

Testimonials

Felix Berg lived and studied in Kenya from 2002 to 2003. Since then he has climbed and travelled to Mount Kenya on over 20 tours guiding groups and privately: solo ascent of the SW-ridge, ascent of the Diamond-Buttress, several first ascents (10 new routes, status 2017) and the speed solo ascent of Nelion in 56min / Batian in 1h17min followed. Since 2004 Felix Berg has been training the Mountain Rescue Team of the KWS (Kenyan Wildlife Service). During this time he got to know all the well-known local guides and was involved in their training and further education.

All our local guides are highly qualified and have climbed with Felix. There are only a handful of truly skilled and experienced mountain guides in Kenya. SummitClimb Kenya’s head guide is Duncan Nderito, who has summited Mount Kenya over 80 times. For larger groups, David and Samuel, both rangers with the National Park, assist with guiding. Even Simon Gitau, now Deputy Director of the KWS (Kenyan Wildlife Service), was trained by Felix Berg on Mount Kenya in 2004. In short: At SummitClimb, we are your Mount Kenya experts.

Mount Kenya Climb: Teilnehmer im Aufstieg zum Nelion/Batian (Südseite) | © SummitClimb Felix Berg
  • Das Gesamterlebnis war sehr gut. Besonders hervorheben möchte ich die Leistung von OBI unseren Führer. Er war sehr umsichtig und ist auf die einzelnen Gruppenmitglieder verständnisvoll eingegangen. Ich fühlte mich immer sicher und wurde gut informiert über unser Trekking. Das weitere Team war sehr freundlich und hilfsbereit.
    Gernot aus Tirol, Österreich, 21.02.2020
  • Das Gesamterlebnis war sehr positiv. Das Team war sehr nett und gut drauf, Duncan ein absolut cooler Typ und sehr kompetent am Berg. Von der Organisation hat alles gepasst, nur bei der Abreise konnte mir erst keiner sagen wann ich im Hotel abgeholt werde. ...für mich hat alles gepasst (auch wenns mit dem Batian nicht geklappt hat und wir zweieinhalb Stunden im Hagel abseilen mussten, aber so ists nun mal mit dem Wetter) Ich würde ganz gerne wiede... read more
    Mirko aus Deutschland, 30.03.2018
  • Ich war hatte nie früher in der Höhe von 5000m geklettert. Bisher hatte ichKlettertouren im Sommer bei max 3000m gemacht und ich hatte wirklich vielAngst wie ich in der Höhe klettern kann, wie ich den Rythmus finde und wieich mit kaltem Fels zurecht komme. Dank Felix hatte ich den Neliongeschafft. ...Du hast mir schon richtig über meine Grenzen gebracht. Danke Dir Felix!!!!
    Tarmo Ploom aus Zürich, 30.01.2013
  • Die ganze Organisation der Mt Kenia Klettertour war ausgezeichnet und hat gut geklappt, wir waren vor Kenia 3 Tage in der Schweiz um uns vorab ein bisschen zu akklimatisieren. Ich muss sagen dass der Aufstieg auf 4200m für nicht Akklimatisierte vielleicht ein bisschen schnell war... Duncan hat sich sehr gut um uns gekümmert und es gibt nichts auszusetzen. Das Essen war seht gut, was für uns sehr wichtig war - das Essen auf den Schweizer Hütten i... read more
    Yves D. aus Luxemburg, 16.10.2016
  • Klettern am Mt Kenya: Duncan war ein guter Führer. Er kannte die Route gut und hatte das Seilhandling drauf. Zwischensicherungen ausreichend gesetzt. Aufwärts brauchten wir 6h. Beim Abseilen waren wir zu viert zu langsam (7h (1x hatte sich Seil beim Abziehen verhängt)). Zu zweit wäre es schneller gegangen. Aber wir haben es zusammen geschafft. Stirnlampe bei den letzten 3 Abseilstellen. ... Dass alles geklappt hat, Batian bestiegen. 100% Erfolg.... read more
    Andy Pendl, Österreich, 26.09.2016
  • Lieber Felix, Liebe Melanie, Retour aus Kenia, ein kurzes Danke schön für die Organisation dieser, für mich sehr beeindruckenden, wunderbaren fünf Tage. Mit Duncan habt ihr einen ganz tollen Bergführer - und dazu hat auch noch das Wetter mitgespielt. Das Jahr 2016 hat damit für mich am 1. Jänner Mittags nach erfolgreicher Kletterpartie auf den Nelion bei Sonnenschein und Wolkenlosem Himmel perfekt begonnen. - Alles Gute weiterhin und die besten W... read more
    Brigitte Lüth, Österreich, 06.01.2016
  • Herzlichen Dank noch für die letzten Briefingunterlagen unserer Reise. Da wir seit anfangs Juli in Afrika unterwegs waren, sahen wir sie dann erst kurz vor dem Reisestart, was aber absolut passend war. Ihr habt wohl von Duncan schon gehört - wir hatten riesiges Wetterglück und durften auf dem Gipfel des Batian stehen! Ein herrlicher und auch anspruchsvoller Berg.
    Verena und Silvan aus der Schweiz, 31.07.2016
  • Gemütliche, chillige Kletterreise nach Afrika. Geile Felsen und cooles Klettern. Vielen Dank an das nette Team um Felix und Duncan!
    Vera R. aus der Schweiz, 01.10.2014

Costs & Services

Mount Kenya Climb Full Service includes all listed services with a flight from Europe and climbing guided by local mountain guides (if necessary, under the direction of the expedition leader). On this Kenya trip, a number of upgrades are available, a trip extension to safari or Kilimanjaro, or a guided tour by IVBV mountain guides or our Mt. Kenya expert Felix Berg. You can also send us your request and we will advise you on climbing Mount Kenya, or directly book online.

Full Service

Included:

  • Organization of the trip from Europe, including flight
  • Expedition leader:
    - smaller groups with 2-7 participants led by one of our experienced Kenyan guides
    - larger groups with 8-12 participants led by SummitClimb expedition leader, accompanied by Kenyan guides
    - max 12 participants in the group
  • Airport transfers in Nairobi
  • 2 nights in ***hotel in Nairobi with breakfast
  • Transfer from Nairobi to the mountain and back
  • 4x4 drive to the National Park gate / end of the road, depending on conditions
  • All camp equipment: dining tent, kitchen tent and kitchen material
  • Catering by our experienced kitchen team, full board on the mountain
  • Porters for our group material and food
  • Team on the mountain incl. guide
  • Personal porter up to 18 kg during the trekking
  • Emergency assistance
  • Full first-aid kit
  • Local mountain guide for the ascent of Batian (2 guests per guide)
  • Group material for climbing: ropes & rack 
  • Satellite telephone/radio
  • Overnight stay in a sleeping tent (2 persons)
  • Overnight fee for Austrian Hut / Shipton's Hut
  • National Park fees (US$ 360 per person / 5-day package)
  • National Park (US$20 per person, each night)
Selected Trip: 
01.07.2025 - 09.07.2025
€3,295.00
Booking status
Book
Not included

Not included:

  • Personal equipment
  • International flight
  • Private expenses (such as telephone calls, alcoholic beverages, snacks, gifts etc.)
  • Travel insurance (health, accident, travel cancellation)
  • Visa fees for Kenya
  • Tips / gratitudes (recommended: US$ 250)
Suggested upgrades
The following options can be added to your booking:

Book now

Feel free to call us:
+49 30 774 90 34
Or send us an e-mail:
info@summitclimb.de

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