Mount Kenya Mount Kenya is Africa’s second highest mountain, and the highest in Kenya. Awesome with its white glacier peaks, the highest point is 5199m (17,058 ft) high. In effect there are three peaks of which only the third highest peak, Point Lenana (known as the “Trekkers Summit” at 4,985m) is the most easily accessible and non-technical. There are three main eco-zones that make up this mysterious but beautiful mountain: the rocky and glacial peak area, actually an eroded volcanic plug, with its mantle of glaciers and snowfields; the alpine zone with its distinctive giant vegetation; and the vast gentle lower slopes drenched in mountain forest and bamboo jungle. The various wildlife including sunbirds, hyrax and soaring eagles make the walk around the peaks one of the most beautiful expeditions in the East African mountains. Due to the high altitude it is wise not to rush to the summit areas but to allow adequate acclimatisation. To combine this ascent with a circumnavigation of the main peaks requires at least an extra day. Only highly experienced trekkers have ever made it to the very top of this imposing and difficult needle sharp peak. Magnificent cliffs and glaciers protect the highest peaks of Nelion (5188m) and Batian (5199m). Mount Kenya is considered sacred by the Kikuyu people, as it is said to be the home of Ng’ai (God). Traditionally, all Kikuyu home were built to face this sacred peak. They call it Kirinyaga, or place of light. Common species found on the hills are giant forest hog, tree hyrax, white-tailed mongoose, elephant, buffalo, suni, duiker, leopard, black rhino, bushbuck, bongo and a type of ‘golden cat’. Mountain buzzards, tinker birds and various louries are also found here. For those who do not want to climb the mountain, its highlands are a lovely place to explore The mountain is located 180 kilometers north of Nairobi and it can often be seen from high-rise buildings in Nairobi and from the town of Thika . Mount Kenya is an extinct volcano, which formed a couple of million years ago. The mountain is located in the Mount Kenya National Park , which is a designated protected area. The mountain is an important water catchment area and many rivers such as the Naro Moru emerge from the melting glaciers. It is no wonder that this remote majestic wonderland was considered as God's domain by awed farmers at its foothills. Many rivers flow from the perpetual snows, among them the mighty Tana , Kenya 's largest and longest river and source of much of Kenya 's electricity supply. Most visitors are content to marvel at the mountain's beauty but some will want to attempt to reach the peaks; a feat requiring considerable rock climbing skill. But the mountain's lesser peaks and glaciers can be scaled and walked by the fit and the adventurous. The best months are January and February and late August through September. Serious climbers may seek advice from the Mountain Club of Kenya. For those who wish to savour the mountain air, the glorious views and the peace and tranquillity which emanate from the mountain, there are many hotels around the foothills among them the famed Mount Kenya Safari Club. For the true trekking experience up Mount Kenya , the Chogoria Route is the way to go. Though other routes get you up the mountain faster, they also increase your chance of suffering altitude sickness. Besides, who's in a hurry? Rush and you'll miss the amazing, strange, and wonderful landscape that surrounds you. Volcanic and glacial activity have combined to create huge crags. Diverse ecosystems ranging from rain forest to moors to barren alpine uplands provide habitat for a wide range of wildlife For those who don’t want to climb the Mountain the cool highlands that surround its base are well worth a visit. The forests are ideal for game viewing, and there are crystal clear mountain streams that abound with Trout.... SAMPLE ITINERARY: 6 DAY TREK OF MT KENYA (CHOGORIA ROUTE) MOUNT ELGON The Rwenzori Mountains – Mountains of the Moon