| MT
KENYA TRAIL
Mount Kenya, Africa's second highest mountain and an ancient
volcano, lies astride the equator at a height of 5199 m above sea level
where snow is a permanent feature. For the young and strong, a climb to
one of the peaks of the mountain is an exhilarating sport.
GENERAL INFORMATION AND COURSE REQUIREMENTS.
The walk up to the mountain takes you from the game filled forests
through moorlands to the Alpine zone below the final glaciated slopes
of Batian (the main peak). To avoid altitude sickness, two nights
are spent on the approach route before the ascent of the third highest
peak Point Lenana. The weather on Mount Kenya is generally good though
short spells of bad weather are often encountered. Nights are invariably
cold. Good clothing and mountain equipment are essential. Best seasons
for the ascent are December to mid- March and late May to October.
HEALTH
Participants should be reasonably fit. Several long walks are minimum
preparation for the average person. If in any doubt as to your fitness,
please consult your doctor. On training walks use the shoes you intend
to wear on the mountain.
EQUIPMENT
Basic equipment : Rucksack(50 litres, framed or unframed). Sleeping
bag-medium weight and down-filled, Karrimat or similar, light weight torch
with spare batteries, 1 liter water flask, small towel and personal
washing kit, light training shoes, climbing boots, 2 pairs of thin
socks, 1 pair of shorts, strong trousers, underwear, 2 T-shirts, 1 long
sleeved shirt, 2 thin or 1 thick jumper,water resistant jacket, balaclava
or woolen hat, mittens, sunglasses or goggles, suncream and plastic bag
for clothing. Experienced guides/porters will accompany you, but expect
to carry some of your kit.
NB: For those who prefer a gentle walk carrying no racksack,
visiting the lower moorlands on the Sirimon Route with views of the peaks,
we offer a night at the base lodge, and two nights on the Sirimon Route.
For the very fit, a special trip to Point Lenana can be arranged. |