Mount Kenya National Park
Mount Kenya National Park : is Africa’s second highest peak in Africa and second highest in Kenya. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site a well as the seat of the Kikuyu God, Ngai. Additionally, the mountain is a symbol of national unity and independence and is very significant to the Kenyan people. The mountain is also a sacred symbol for the Gikuyu community who has resided at the mountain base for years. The mountain is considered holy and therefore not to be disrespected. Besides, the park is home to rare species of animals as well as spectacular lakes, mineral springs, and forests. Best visited in January-February and July-October and it is 3-4 hours’ drive from Nairobi.
What to do/see in Mount Kenya National Park
Animal viewing
Mount Kenya is encircled by a forest reserve whereby a number of animal species reside. Some of these include; elephants, tree hyrax, white tailed mongoose, black fronted duikers, mole rats. Bushbucks, waterbucks, elands, leopards, black rhinos, buffaloes, etc.
Birding
The park generally hosts over 160 bird species, with 53 of Kenya’s 67 African highland biome species, including the rare and threatened Abbott’s starling. It is also home to 6 of the 8 bird species that are endemic to the Kenyan Mountains.
Walking and climbing mount kenya
Mount Kenya also offers walking and climbing activities. The majority of climbs involve rock climbing via the easiest route, although some only require a scramble or a walk. Here, you will pass through several different eco-systems on your ascent from tropical forest which is home to Buffalo and Elephant. Then to the upland heath which is home to many strange plants such as the Giant Lobelia and Rosette plants. However, for the less skilled, there are eight walking routes up to the main peaks.
How to get to Mount Kenya National Park & Reserve
Roads
175 Kms from Nairobi, the park can be reached on Nanyuki-Isiolo road via Sirimon Track or Nyeri-Nanyuki road near Naro Moru. The park is also reachable via Chogoria on the Embu – Meru road, about 150km north of Nairobi.
Airstrips
The closest commercial airstrip to the park is at Nanyuk.
Accommodation
Luxury
- Misty Mountain Lodge
Mid-range
- Peaks Hotel Nanyuki, Anka Resort
Budget
- The Great Circle Lodge
- Rhino Watch Safari Lodge
- Joskaki Hotel
Our Special Safaris
