Mount Kenya On Map

Introduction

Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya and the second-highest in Africa after Kilimanjaro. This magnificent mountain is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and culture enthusiasts. In this travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that Mount Kenya has to offer.

Top Attractions

Mount Kenya National Park

Mount Kenya National Park is a protected area surrounding Mount Kenya, which covers an area of 715 square kilometers. The park is home to various wildlife species, including elephants, buffalos, antelopes, and primates. Visitors can engage in activities such as game drives, bird watching, and guided nature walks. The park also has several hiking trails that lead to the mountain’s peaks, including Point Lenana, Batian, and Nelion.

Chogoria Town

Chogoria is a small town located at the foothills of Mount Kenya. The town is known for its scenic views, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Visitors can explore the Nithi and Gura Falls, which are located a few kilometers from the town. Chogoria also has several campsites and lodges where visitors can stay while exploring the surrounding area.

Hidden Gems

Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a private wildlife conservancy located on the equator in Laikipia County. The conservancy is home to several endangered species, including the northern white rhino, chimpanzees, and Grevy’s zebras. Visitors can go on game drives, guided walks, and night safaris to explore the conservancy and its wildlife. The conservancy also has several lodges and campsites where visitors can stay.

Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve

Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve is a lush forest located near Mount Kenya. The reserve is home to several tree species, including the giant African mahogany and the olive tree. Visitors can go on guided nature walks, swim in the natural pools, and go on a canopy walk, which is a 40-foot high walkway that offers stunning views of the forest canopy.

Food Scene

Mount Kenya has a diverse food scene that offers a variety of dishes influenced by the local cultures and traditions. Some of the popular dishes include Nyama Choma, which is roasted meat, Ugali, which is a cornmeal porridge, and Sukuma Wiki, which is a vegetable dish made with kale or collard greens. Visitors can also try the local fruits, including mangoes, pineapples, and passion fruits.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Mount Kenya offers several budget-friendly options for visitors. One can opt for camping, which is cheaper than staying in lodges or hotels. Visitors can also buy food and drinks from local markets, which are cheaper than restaurants. Additionally, visitors can use public transport, which is cheaper than private taxis.

Outdoor Adventures

Mount Kenya offers various outdoor adventures for visitors. Visitors can go on hiking trails that lead to the mountain’s peaks, including Point Lenana, Batian, and Nelion. The mountain also offers opportunities for rock climbing, mountain biking, and horse riding. Visitors can also go on game drives, guided nature walks, and bird watching.

Historical Landmarks

Mau Mau Caves

The Mau Mau Caves are historical landmarks located near Mount Kenya. The caves were used by the Mau Mau freedom fighters during the Kenya Emergency in the 1950s. The caves offer a glimpse into the country’s struggle for independence and are a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Fort Jesus

Fort Jesus is a historical landmark located in Mombasa, which is a few hours’ drive from Mount Kenya. The fort was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and served as a military base during the colonial period. Visitors can explore the fort’s history and architecture and enjoy the stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

Family-Friendly Activities

Mount Kenya offers several family-friendly activities that visitors can enjoy. Visitors can go on game drives, guided nature walks, and bird watching. The mountain also has several campsites and lodges that offer activities such as swimming, fishing, and horse riding. Additionally, visitors can learn about the local cultures and traditions by visiting cultural centers and museums.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Meru National Park

Meru National Park is a lesser-known park located near Mount Kenya. The park is home to several wildlife species, including lions, elephants, and buffalos. The park also has several hiking trails that lead to the Tana River and the Nyambene Hills. Visitors can go on game drives, guided walks, and bird watching.

Chuka Hills

Chuka Hills are a range of hills located near Mount Kenya. The hills offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and are a perfect destination for hiking and mountain biking. Visitors can explore the local culture and traditions by visiting the nearby villages and interacting with the locals.

Natural Wonders

Thomson’s Falls

Thomson’s Falls is a scenic waterfall located near Mount Kenya. The waterfall is named after Joseph Thomson, a Scottish geologist who discovered it in the 19th century. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the waterfall and the surrounding area, which is home to several wildlife species.

Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake located near Mount Kenya. The lake is home to several bird species, including pelicans and flamingos. Visitors can go on boat rides, guided nature walks, and bird watching. The lake also has several lodges and campsites where visitors can stay.

Vibrant Nightlife

Mount Kenya has a vibrant nightlife scene that offers a variety of options for visitors. Visitors can enjoy live music and dance performances in local bars and clubs. The towns near Mount Kenya also have several restaurants and cafes that offer a variety of food and drinks.

Local Markets

Mount Kenya has several local markets where visitors can buy souvenirs, handicrafts, and local produce. Some of the popular markets include the Nanyuki Market, which is held every Tuesday, and the Karatina Market, which is held every Thursday. Visitors can also buy local fruits, including mangoes, pineapples, and passion fruits, from the fruit vendors.

Beaches and Mountains

Mount Kenya is located a few hours’ drive from the Kenyan coast, which offers several beaches and coastal towns. Visitors can enjoy the sandy beaches, clear waters, and water sports activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and deep-sea fishing. The coastal towns also offer a variety of food and drinks options.

Cultural Immersion

Mount Kenya offers several opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the local cultures and traditions. Visitors can visit cultural centers and museums to learn about the country’s history and heritage. Visitors can also interact with the locals and learn about their way of life.

Art and Music Scene

Mount Kenya has a vibrant art and music scene that offers a variety of options for visitors. Visitors can enjoy live music and dance performances in local bars and clubs. The towns near Mount Kenya also have several art galleries and exhibitions that showcase the local art and crafts.

Walking Tours

Mount Kenya offers several walking tours that allow visitors to explore the surrounding area on foot. Visitors can go on guided nature walks, which offer a chance to see the local flora and fauna up close. Visitors can also explore the local towns and villages on foot and interact with the locals.

Architectural Marvels

Nyeri Cathedral

Nyeri Cathedral is a historical landmark located in Nyeri, which is a few hours’ drive from Mount Kenya. The cathedral was built by Italian prisoners of war during the Second World War and is a masterpiece of architectural design. Visitors can explore the cathedral’s history and architecture and attend mass.

Mt. Kenya Safari Club

Mt. Kenya Safari Club is a luxury resort located near Mount Kenya. The resort was founded by actor William Holden in the 1950s and has hosted several famous guests, including Winston Churchill and Bing Crosby. The resort offers stunning views of the mountain and the surrounding area and has several amenities, including a golf course, a spa, and a swimming pool.