Mount Kenya National Park – National Park in Nyeri

Mount Kenya National Park protects the upper slopes of Africa's second-highest mountain, an ancient extinct volcano and a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve. Its summit peaks are Batian (5,199 m) and Nelion (5,188 m), which need technical climbing, and Point Lenana (4,984 m), the usual goal for trekkers.

On the way up, walkers pass through bamboo and montane forest into heath and alpine moorland dotted with giant groundsels and lobelias. Glacial valleys hold a string of tarns and lakes, some of which are used for trout fishing. Buffalo, elephants and many forest birds live on the lower slopes, and the mountain holds deep cultural meaning for the communities around it.

Popular routes start from the Sirimon, Naro Moru and Chogoria sides, with KWS bandas, guest houses and campsites as well as private mountain huts and camps. Climbers should plan for cold nights and altitude. Gates open from 6 AM to 6 PM. Fees and bookings are on the KWS Mount Kenya National Park page.