The highest mountain in Kenya
Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya, and the second highest (after Mount Kilimanjaro in neighbouring Tanzania) in Africa. Standing at 4,985 metres, it dominates the central Kenyan landscape, and is about 150 km south of the equator. It is only one of a few places near the equator with permanent ice glaciers. The mountain is in the Mount Kenya National Park, a protected area covering about 700 km², and which was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. The Park receives an estimated 15,000 visitors annually.
Mount Kenya is an extinct volcano, which was formed approximately 3 million years ago. The highest peaks are Batian (5,199 metres), Nelion (5,188 metres) and Point Lenana (4,985 metres). Of these 3 peaks, only Point Lenana can be reached by novice to intermediate trekkers – the other 2 peaks can only be attempted by experienced, technical climbers. As with any hike, prior training is definitely required – whatever your level of expertise!