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Being the second highest mountain in Africa, Mt Kenya stands tall at a whooping 5199m above sea level and Situated 16km south of the equator. This mountain in Central Kenya Highlands is within the Mt Kenya National Park, and is among the most beautiful landscapes in the entire Africa. With three mountain peaks i.e., the Batian, the Nelion and the Lenana providing the perfect backdrop for a fun and adventurous Kenyan mountain vacation. Visitors can go camping in the vast wilderness surrounding Mt Kenya, stay in historic hotels not unlike the dwellings of the area’s early settlers, or stay in a modern, state of the art resorts and Lodges Like The Ark, Nyeri, Treetops and the Mountain Lodge.
The Batian and Nelion are the lowest of the three peaks but Surprisingly can only be reached by skilled mountain climbers. Lenana, although the highest peak can be reached by the normal trekking group, though reaching the top could be more challenging than you ever thought of, but with a good guide reaching the peak can become a reality. The glaciers surrounding the montain, the mist, and the snow covering the top of the mountain yields numerous number of streams down to the base of the mountain. For those who plan to climb the mountain leisurely, you may need four to seven days. Its advisable to carry a tour guide and a porter both of which can be arranged by the Bush Troop Safaris Personnel in Nairobi.
There are a variety of trailed routes to the top of mt Kenya. Visitors wishing to Climbing Mount Kenya can use one of these routes each of which has its own features and characteristics. Each route will exhibit different topography, flora and fauna. These routes are the Sirimon route, the Picnic Naro Moro route, the Burguret route, the Timau route and the Chogoria route which meet at Minto’s hut at 4300m above sea level and overlooking Lake Michaelson. Each entry point to Climbing Mount Kenya is Conviniently dotted with a variety of resorts and camping sites.
It would be important to note that Climbing Mount Kenya can be done with relative ease. Within a Short while you will have risen wore meters above sea level than is medically advisable. The Sudden Loss of Oxygen could be disastrous for the less skilled trekkers who could result to headaches and vomittimg and could eventually lead to death if not monitored. Many have died climbing Mount Kenya. My Advise is Take it with ease. Do it for four to seven days, but you have to strike a balance between your health and the cold temperatures which have a habit of hitting -10 degrees celcius, the rain and the cold winds.
The weather is very harsh in the Mount Kenya region especially during the period from March to August. I would definitely not advise you to climbing Mount Kenya during these periods. But if you do, carry a good sleeping bag, very warm clothing, good quaity boots, headgear and gloves. Make sure all your clothing is waterproof since this region rains every other day and sometimes heavily.
A Mt Kenya mountain vacation is a great idea for a group, or as a romantic getaway. Its also a great idea for anyone looking to escape the stressful fast pace of city life. The beautiful scenery and fascinating wildlife attractions will please anyone.
Mwathe Jackline is a tour operator and has been organizing and reporting on Vacation, Travel and Tours for years. For more information on Climbing Mount Kenya, visit her site at Climbing Mount Kenya