Mount Kenya

Mount Kenya

The Mountain’s original name was “Kirinyaga” from a Kikuyu word meaning a place with Ostrich. Legend has it that the Mountain’s original name was derived from the comparison of the patched peaks resemblance with the black and white plumage of a male Ostrich. The Kikuyu believed that this area of admirable beauty was their god’s domain. It was due to this spiritual belief that they regarded the Mountain as a sacred place. It was also in this same perception that the Kikuyu glorified their god (“Ngai”) as “Mwene Nyaga” implying that they recognized him as the owner of the holy mountain. It was customary to build huts with the doors facing the direction of the mountain so as to face the mountain first thing every morning. As a religious belief, they faced the mountain when praying and offering sacrifice to their god. Visits to the mountain were only made as a pilgrimage to offer special sacrifice to their god, otherwise it was a taboo.

What is it Like to Hike Mt. Kenya?

Trekking in Mount Kenya has attracted many adventure travelers since the early 19th century. The most hilarious attempt was that made by the Italian prisoners of war who attempted to climb the mountain with a map inscribed on a tin, showing only the major twin peaks. Unfortunately they didn't make to the top due to hunger.

Mount Kenya is the only snowcap mountain that straddles the equator. Your visit will be fulfilled by various kind of attractions. As your target is to hike and explore the afro-mountain habitats, Mt. Kenya will enrich your outdoor knowledge and leave you with a desire to know much about the wilderness. The mountain is regarded as being among the most beautiful volcanic mountain with eye catching undulating and awe-inspiring sceneries. The lush forests pristine with diverse biota the gigantic peaks, picturesque valleys and crystal clear streams. 

Weather and Climate

The prevailing weather condition usually changes abruptly from clear weather to fogs, snows and mists which are characteristics of all tropical mountains. Though this is the daily trend, the climatical changes are more pronounced in rainy seasons between March-June and October and mid-December. These drastic changes in weather and altitude difference have profound effects on vegetation types and distribution. For instance, on the slopes of the mountain are giant rain forest trees and bamboo forests. As the altitude increases, a reduction in species size and diversity are witness till up the peak where no life exists, except in sheltered parts.

Flora and fauna

Traversing the various routes provides a closer view of the wide range of flora and fauna; the endemic, diverse and luxurious plant species well distributed up the mountain that add elegance to the Mountain. Alongside these distinctive diversity is an impressive array of forest species of mammals.