Is the Mount Kenya climb and safari suitable for beginners?

Yes, if you are fit. The Mount Kenya climb and safari reaches Point Lenana, which needs no technical skills, but the summit day is long at 11 to 12 hours. Train with long hill walks for several weeks before the trip.

When is the best time for this trip?

The best time is January to February or late June to early October. Those months are driest on Mount Kenya, and from July to October the Great Migration herds are usually in the Masai Mara.

Where do we stay on the safari days?

On the safari days you stay in comfortable lodges or tented camps in Ol Pejeta, Lake Naivasha and the Masai Mara on full board. We confirm the exact lodges in your quote based on your budget and availability.

What happens to my luggage during the climb?

You only carry a day pack. Porters carry your trekking bag, and any luggage you do not need on the mountain stays in the safari vehicle or is transferred ahead to the first lodge.

Can I book this for a group?

Yes. The trip works well for groups, clubs and companies. We add guides and vehicles to suit your numbers. Send us your group size and dates for a tailor-made quote.

Mount Kenya Climb and Safari: 8 Days From Summit to Savannah

4.9/5 ★★★★★Based on 74+ reviews

5.0/5 ★★★★★Based on 66+ reviews

5.0/5 ★★★★★Based on 47+ reviews

This Mount Kenya climb and safari pairs a sunrise on Point Lenana with rhinos at Ol Pejeta, a boat ride on Lake Naivasha and the Masai Mara.

Overview

Day by Day

Includes/Excludes

FAQs

This Mount Kenya climb and safari packs Kenya’s mountain and its wildlife into 8 days. You trek up the scenic Chogoria route past Lake Ellis, summit Point Lenana (4,985 m) at dawn on day 3 and descend by Sirimon. The safari then takes you to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lake Naivasha with a cycle in Hell’s Gate, and two nights in the Masai Mara before returning to Nairobi.

It suits fit travellers and groups who want a real mountain challenge and a classic safari in one trip.

Why choose a Mount Kenya climb and safari?

Climbing first and relaxing on safari afterwards is the perfect order: you reach the game drives tired but happy, with nothing left to train for. Ol Pejeta is a short drive from the mountain, so there is no wasted travel day.

What to expect on the 8 day Mount Kenya climb and safari

Days 1 to 4 are the climb: Chogoria Gate to Lake Ellis, a steep moorland day to Mintos camp (about 4,200 m), Point Lenana before dawn and a descent to Old Moses Camp, then out via Sirimon Gate to Ol Pejeta for an evening game drive. Day 5 takes you to Lake Naivasha with a cycle in Hell’s Gate National Park. Day 6 includes a boat ride and the drive to the Masai Mara, day 7 is a full day in the reserve and day 8 returns to Nairobi.

When is the best time?

Mount Kenya is driest from January to February and late June to early October. July to October also brings the Great Migration herds to the Masai Mara.

Read about Ol Pejeta Conservancy and the best time to visit the Masai Mara.

How do I book this climb?

Prices depend on your dates, group size and whether you want huts, camping or extra nights, so we quote every climb personally. WhatsApp us on +254 706 223888, email [email protected] or request a tailor-made quote. If you are travelling with friends, a club or colleagues, see our page on climbing as a group.

Highlights

Point Lenana (4,985 m) at sunrise
Chogoria route past Lake Ellis
Rhinos and chimpanzees at Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Cycling in Hell's Gate and a Lake Naivasha boat ride
Two nights in the Masai Mara

Day 1 :

Nairobi to Lake Ellis via Chogoria

Early pick-up in Nairobi and drive to Chogoria Gate. Walk past Nithi Falls and through the forest and moorland to camp at Lake Ellis (about 3,470 m).

Day 2 :

Lake Ellis to Mintos Camp

A steep moorland walk of about 9 km, gaining up to 800 m, to Mintos camp at about 4,200 m near Hall Tarns.

Day 3 :

Point Lenana summit and descent to Old Moses Camp

Start before dawn to reach Point Lenana (4,985 m) for sunrise, then descend through Mackinder's Valley to Old Moses Camp (about 3,300 m), 11 to 12 hours in total.

Day 4 :

Sirimon Gate to Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Walk down to Sirimon Gate and transfer to Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Afternoon game drive to look for rhinos, elephants and lions.

Day 5 :

Ol Pejeta to Lake Naivasha

Drive into the Rift Valley to Lake Naivasha. In the afternoon, cycle among giraffes and zebras in Hell's Gate National Park.

Day 6 :

Lake Naivasha to the Masai Mara

Morning boat ride on Lake Naivasha to see hippos and birds, then drive via Narok to the Masai Mara for an afternoon game drive.

Day 7 :

Full day in the Masai Mara

A full day of game drives with a picnic lunch on the plains, searching for big cats, elephants and, in season, the migration herds.