Mount Kenya National Park

Mount Kenya National Park dominates the Central Highlands with a mountain range that was formed between two and three million years ago by a series of volcanic eruptions. Flora and fauna vary with altitude changes as you move along Mount Kenya. Dry upland forest is on the lower slopes while a dense belt of bamboo forest merges into the upper forest of smaller trees at about 2500 meters.

Mount Kenya consists of three peaks: Batian, which is the highest, Nelion, and Lenana. The peaks are permanently covered with snow and glaciers. Lenana is considered the easiest peak to climb, although the unpredictable weather and high altitudes leave many climbers unprepared. Nelion is lower than Batian but considered the tougher climb.

The forest belts of Mount Kenya National Park host many different animals and plants. Wildlife includes black and white Colobus and Sykes monkeys, bushbuck, buffalo, elephant, baboon, waterbuck, black rhino, black fronted duiker, leopard, bush pig and hyena.

Opened to visitors in December 1949, Mount Kenya National Park has spectacular scenery with lakes, glaciers, peaks and natural mineral springs in the area. Visitors can enjoy a rewarding wildlife viewing experience, as well as participate in mountain climbing. The Naro Maro airstrip is also located in the park.