The adventure
Take on Kenya’s highest peaks via the Naro Moru route, combining alpine trekking with technical rock climbing to reach Batian and Nelion. Get your Technical climb plan 6 Days Mount Kenya Climb – Nelion & Batian (SE Face / Normal Route) This technical climb on Mount Kenya takes you to its highest peaks Batian (5,199m) and Nelion (5,188m) via the classic South-East Face (Normal Route). The route involves multi-pitch rock climbing, requiring good technical ability, acclimatization and favorable weather conditions
Highlights
- Summit Batian (5,199m) – highest peak on Mount Kenya
- Climb Nelion (5,188m) via multi-pitch rock routes
- Experience alpine climbing on high-altitude granite
- Navigate chimneys, cracks, and exposed ridges
- Cross the famous Gate of the Mists (Batian–Nelion traverse)
- Climb one of Africa’s most iconic technical mountains
Day-by-day itinerary
-
Day 1
Nairobi - Naro Moru – Met Station (3000m)
Early pick up from Nairobi to Naromoru and enter Mount Kenya National Park via Naro Moru Gate. Trek through dense rainforest to Met Station. Dinner and overnight at the met station.
-
Day 2
Met Station – Mackinder’s Camp (4200m)
Hike through moorland and the vertical bog to Mackinder's Camp. Enjoy views of Teleki Valley and surrounding peaks. Dinner and overnight at Mackinder’s camp
-
Day 3
Mackinder’s camp to Austrian hut (4790m)
After breakfast, hike at luxurious base acclimatizing moving closer to base of technical climbing. Reaching at Austrian at good for all preparation .
-
Day 4
& 5: Nelion and Batian (5188m and 5199m)
Begin early morning ascent via southern East route/Normal route, approx. 18piches, technical challenging throughout, fully loaded in case of overnight up at high camp bivouac.
-
Day 6
mackinders camp to Nairobi,via met station
Cost from 1800$ per Person. Includes Technical guide 3 meals per day Porters and cook Drinking water. Park fees Excludes Technical gear Tips Hard drinks Insurance
What's included & excluded
Included
- Certified technical climbing guides
- Climbing ropes and safety equipment
- Park fees for Mount Kenya National Park
- Meals and camping
- Porters and support crew
- Transport from Nairobi
Not included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Tips
- Personal gear
- Visas
Difficulty & fitness level
UIAA IV–VI / ~5.6–5.8 (some sections harder depending on conditions).
A solid trekking fitness base is needed. Aim for regular walks or cardio 4–6 weeks before departure. No technical skills required.
Best season
January–March & July–October
Frequently asked questions
Is this harder than Point Lenana?
Yes. Point Lenana is a trek. Batian and Nelion require full technical climbing.
Do I need climbing experience?
Yes. You must have experience in multi-pitch rock climbing and high-altitude environments
How difficult is Batian climb?
It is graded UIAA IV+ to V+, involving technical rock climbing and exposure
Can beginners attempt this climb?
No. This is strictly for experienced climbers.
How long does the technical climb take?
Typically 6–7 days, depending on weather and acclimatization
Is a guide required?
Yes, if they are fit and prepared.