Camping vs. Hut Accommodations:

Camping vs. Hut Accommodations: Where to Stay on Mount Kenya.  One of the most important decisions when trekking, hiking, or climbing Mount Kenya is choosing between camping and hut accommodations. Both options offer unique experiences, and the best choice depends on your trekking style, comfort preferences, and budget.

In this ultimate guide, Ahambi Tours, the leading Mount Kenya trekking company, explores the pros and cons of camping vs. staying in mountain huts, the best accommodations on Mount Kenya, and how to choose the right option for your trek.

Accommodation Options on Mount Kenya: What to Expect

When trekking Mount Kenya, you’ll find two main accommodation options: Camping vs. Hut Accommodations:

Camping: Staying in tents at designated campsites along the trail.
Mountain Huts: Staying in basic dormitory-style shelters built along popular routes.

Each option offers a different experience, and choosing the right one can impact your comfort, trek enjoyment, and overall experience.

Camping on Mount Kenya: A True Adventure Experience

Camping is the most authentic way to experience Mount Kenya’s raw beauty. It allows trekkers to immerse themselves in nature, sleep under the stars, and enjoy the peaceful wilderness.

Pros of Camping when Climbing Mount Kenya

• Closer to nature – Sleep under the stars and wake up to breathtaking sunrises.
• Better privacy – Avoid crowded huts and enjoy a peaceful wilderness experience.
• More affordable – Camping fees are cheaper than hut stays.

Cons of Camping on Mount Kenya

• Colder at night – Tents don’t retain heat like huts, so temperatures can drop to -10°C to -15°C.
• Requires more gear – You’ll need a good-quality sleeping bag, sleeping mat, and a tent.
• Weather exposure – Heavy rain or strong winds can make camping challenging.

Mount Kenya Best Routes for Camping

Chogoria Route – Offers the best camping experience with scenic landscapes.
Sirimon Route – Popular among campers looking for gradual altitude gain.

Who Should Choose Camping?

• Adventure lovers who enjoy wilderness experiences.
• Photographers who want to capture stunning night skies.

Staying in Mountain Huts: Where to Stay on Mount Kenya

Mountain huts are basic dormitory-style accommodations located along popular Mount Kenya trekking routes. They provide shelter from harsh weather and eliminate the need for carrying tents.

Pros of Staying in Huts on Mount Kenya

• More comfortable – Offers basic beds, mattresses, and shelter from wind & rain.
• Warmer than tents – Huts retain heat better, making nights more comfortable.
• Less equipment needed – No need to carry tents, which reduces pack weight.

Cons of Staying in Huts on Mount Kenya

Less privacy – Dormitory-style rooms mean sharing with other trekkers.
Not available on all routes – Some scenic areas only offer camping.

Best Routes for Huts

Sirimon Route – Features well-maintained huts like Old Moses & Shipton’s Camp.
Naro Moru Route – Offers Mackinder’s Hut near Point Lenana.

Who Should Choose Huts?

• Trekkers who prefer comfort over adventure.
• Beginners who want a hassle-free trek.
• Those trekking in the rainy season to avoid wet camping conditions.

Best Huts on Mount Kenya: Where to Stay

If you prefer hut accommodations, here are the best options along Mount Kenya’s main trekking routes:

Huts on the Sirimon Route

• Old Moses Camp (3,300m) – First stop from Sirimon Gate, offering basic dormitory beds.
• Shipton’s Camp (4,200m) – A scenic high-altitude base before the summit attempt.

Huts on the Naro Moru Route

• Mackinder’s Hut (4,300m) – Located on the steepest section of the Naro Moru Route.
• Huts on the Chogoria Route
• Meru Bandas (2,950m) – The only hut accommodation on the Chogoria Route, offering private cabins.

 Which is the Best Option: 

Feature	Camping	Hut Accommodation
Cost	More affordable	More expensive
Comfort	Basic, requires gear	Warmer, beds available
Privacy	Private tents	Shared dormitories
Best for	Adventure seekers	Those preferring comfort
Weather Protection	Exposed to wind & rain	Fully sheltered

Best of Both Worlds? Some trekkers choose a mix of camping & huts, staying in huts at higher altitudes for warmth and camping at scenic spots like Lake Ellis.

Best Time to Trek Mount Kenya & Where to Stay.

Best Seasons (Dry Months – Ideal for Trekking)
January – March (Warm, clear skies).
June – October (Dry season, high summit success rate).

Rainy Seasons (Less Recommended)
April – May (Long rains – muddy trails, poor visibility).
November – December (Short rains – unpredictable weather).

Pro Tip: If climbing Mount Kenya during the wet season, huts are a better option for staying warm & dry.

Why Book Your Mount Kenya Trek with Ahambi Tours?

At Ahambi Tours, we offer:

• Custom trekking itineraries with both camping & hut options.
• Experienced guides for a safe and enjoyable trek.
• High-quality camping gear for those choosing to camp.
• Affordable packages for solo trekkers, groups, and families.

Plan your trek today!
Visit: ahambitours.co.ke Email: info@ahambitours.co.ke WhatsApp: +254 725 727167