Mount Kenya National Park
Mount Kenya National Park consists mainly of the three peaks of Mount Kenya. This gives it a different landscape than the other national parks, but the African animals are still evident, including African elephants, monkeys and a host of birds.
Mount Kenya National Park was created in 1949 to protect Mount Kenya and its environment from destruction and development. The Mount Kenya Forest Reserve encircles the national park and the two areas, combined, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mount Kenya National Park covers 715km² (276 square miles) and the forest reserve at the base covers a further 705km² (272 square miles).
Mount Kenya National Park Facts |
Mount Kenya National Park History and Overview
Mount Kenya stands a magnificent 5199m (17,057 feet) above sea level, dominating the view for miles around. It is the second highest mountain in Africa, next to Mount Kilimanjaro, and was formed hundreds of years ago by a series of volcanic eruptions. Gradually, the cratered rim has eroded, forming several peaks.
The park was created to encourage tourism, to preserve the area's natural, outstanding beauty, and to conserve the animal habitat and protect it as a water catchment area. Mount Kenya National Park is located between Kenya's other safari parks - Aberdare, Samburu and Meru National Park.
Of Mount Kenya's three main peaks, only Point Lenana can be climbed by amateurs on a mountain climbing safari. The other two peaks require full mountaineering skills and technical equipment.
The mountain supports rainforest, with thick clumps of bamboo growing above the forest. Higher up the slopes, it becomes moorland with heather and lobelia. A tarmac road runs around the base of Mount Kenya and there are several towns situated along the road, including Naro Moru, Nanyuki and Meru.
African animals, including elephants, buffalo, Colobus and other monkeys, Cape buffalo, antelope and giant forest hogs, inhabit the lower forests. They are contained within the national park by electrified fences. The birdlife is also very prolific, including huge eagles and colorful sunbirds. A spotter's guide may be useful for identifying the animals and birds.
Climate
The climate varies with the altitude and temperatures at Mount Kenya National Park are cooler than throughout most of the country. The climate is subtropical or temperate. There is still a rainy season from March to May and from October to December when it is drizzly and cloudy. Rainfall is moderate on the lower slopes and heavier higher up. The sunniest months are from December through March.
Above 8000 feet, temperatures can fall low enough for frost and snow to occur. The peak of Mount Kenya is always covered in snow.
How to Get to Mount Kenya National Park
By road: Mount Kenya National Park is 175km from Nairobi, accessible through Nanyuki-Isiolo road. There is also another entrance 150km north of Nairobi through Embu-Meru road.
By Air: The closest airstrip is at Nanyuki
What to See and Do
Take a game safari through the pristine wilderness and see the magnificent lakes, glaciers and peaks.
View the African animals, endangered species and unique mountain vegetation.
Climb Point Lenana, if you are reasonably fit, and enjoy the views.
Birdwatching is very rewarding as there are many prolific species including the multi-colored sunbirds and huge eagles.
Accommodation in Mount Kenya National Park
There are many huts available to rent.
Kenya Lodges at Mt. Kenya
You can stay at Serena Mountain Lodge with splendid views of Mount Kenya. Also, straddling the equator is a group of luxurious cottages and elegant buildings. Surrounded by pristine, manicured lawns and decorated ponds is the exclusive Mount Kenya Safari Club, a great lodge to stay in. Another great lodge is the Rotundu Fishes Lodge.
Best Time to Visit
December to March are the sunniest months. There are some cloudy periods and rain from March to May, and drizzle from October to early December which may restrict clear views.
Entrance Fees:
Mount Kenya National Park is open all year round. There is no admission charge to enjoy this beautiful scenery.
Where to Book Your Safari Tour to Mount Kenya Park
If you are interested in going on a mountain climbing, wildlife, bird watching or scenic safari in Kenya, there are reputable Kenya tour and travel companies and travel agents who will book a guided, all-inclusive Kenya safari that suits your needs, before your arrival. Planning a Kenya safari is easy enough to do yourself and you can also book your Kenya tour safari online.
These Kenya tour and travel safari packages normally include accommodation, travel to the park, park fees, English-speaking tour guides, food and other activities to capture that memorable experience in Mount Kenya National Park and other safari parks in Kenya.
Return to the Kenya National Parks & Game Reserves page.
Explore different choices and possibilities for a Kenya safari in Kenya.
Planning to go on an African safari in Kenya? Check out these discounted Kenya safari tours or customize your own Kenya safari tour.
Find the easiest, quickest and most economical way to book your flight to Kenya.
Where to Stay: Book Hotels in Kenya including safari lodges in Mount Kenya, online.
Book your domestic flight in Kenya or find flights to and from other African destinations.
Need to know facts for the traveler: visa information, general information, tourist information and more.
Kenya Currency - How far will your money go in Kenya shillings? Find information on exchange rates, banks and more.
Back to TOP of Mount Kenya National Park Page
