6 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit

6 DAYS - 5 NIGHTS
  • 6 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit

6 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit. Take on the ultimate alpine challenge in Kenya with Ahambi Tours’ 6-day technical climb to Batian Summit—the highest point on Mount Kenya at 5,199 meters (17,057 ft). Unlike trekking to Point Lenana or the South Face climb to Nelion, summiting Batian via the North Face Standard Route requires true alpine climbing skills, high-altitude endurance, and a strong sense of adventure.

This expedition is tailored for experienced climbers seeking an authentic and demanding technical ascent on Africa’s second-highest mountain. With full support from certified climbing guides, porters, and a well-paced itinerary, you’ll be equipped to reach the summit safely and confidently.

Climb Overview: North Face Standard Route

The climb to Batian follows the North Face Standard Route, Mount Kenya’s most respected high-altitude alpine route. It is a classic rock climb offering serious exposure, multi-pitch terrain, and incredible views over Kenya and beyond.

Key route features:

  • 18–21 rock pitches
  • Difficulty: UIAA grade IV–V+ (YDS 5.7–5.10 depending on conditions)
  • Belay ledges and natural protection placements
  • A full summit day of 10–12 hours, including rappels on descent

This route is technical, committing, and only recommended for climbers with solid experience in multi-pitch climbing and altitude trekking.

Who Is This Climb For?

The 6-day Batian climb is ideal for:

  • Climbers with alpine or trad climbing experience
  • Those in excellent physical condition
  • Individuals with proficiency in belaying, rappelling, and rope management
  • Trekkers familiar with altitude environments

If you haven’t climbed Nelion or completed a multi-pitch climb before, we recommend starting with a Point Lenana trek or Nelion ascent first.

Why Climb with Ahambi Tours?

Ahambi Tours is one of the most trusted operators for technical Mount Kenya climbs. We provide:

  • Certified technical climbing guides
  • Trekking guide for the approach and descent
  • All technical equipment (ropes, anchors, protection)
  • Safe pacing, proper acclimatization, and summit support
  •  Strong focus on safety, logistics, and local expertise

With Ahambi Tours, you’re in the hands of experienced professionals who know Mount Kenya’s vertical terrain intimately.

Best Time to Climb Batian

The North Face of Batian is best climbed between:

  • July to September – This is the dry season on the north side of the mountain, offering better friction, fewer storms, and improved route conditions.

Our summit climbs are planned to maximize weather windows and begin at dawn to allow full use of daylight on the route.

6 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit Itinerary

This 6-day climb combines trekking, acclimatization, and the final technical summit day on the North Face. The route begins from Sirimon Gate

For a detailed, day-by-day itinerary of the Batian Technical Climb, click the itinerary button above.

Our Package Includes:

  • Professional technical climbing guide
  • Professional trekking guide for approach and descent
  • All park entry fees, climbing permits, and government levy
  • Full meals and accommodation during the trek
  • Mountain crew: porters, cook, logistics support
  • Use of technical climbing equipment (ropes, protection, belay gear)
  • Transport to and from Mount Kenya from Nairobi
  • Emergency mountain radio communication and response system
  • Certificate of Achievement upon successful summit

Price for 6 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit (USD per person):

Pax Price in USD
1 $1,700
2 $1,450
3 $1,340
4 $1,230

What to Bring for the 6 Day Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit

Ahambi Tours provides technical gear. Personal equipment includes:

  • Climbing shoes, harness, helmet
  • Warm layered clothing + waterproof gear
  • Mountaineering boots
  • Sleeping bag (suitable for high-altitude nights)
  • Sunglasses, headlamp, gloves, refillable water bottles

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How difficult is Batian compared to Nelion?

A: Batian is more technical, with longer pitches and a more complex descent. It’s suitable only for experienced multi-pitch climbers.

Q: What’s the best route to Batian?

A: The North Face Standard Route is the most reliable and accessible route during the dry season (July to September).

Q: Is a guide mandatory?

A: Yes. Park regulations require a certified guide for all technical climbs.

Q: Is there a hut on the summit like Nelion?

A: No. There is no summit hut on Batian, so summit day includes both the climb and descent without overnighting at the top.

Q: Is this climb safe?

A: Yes, when done with professional guides, proper pacing, and stable weather. Ahambi Tours provides contingency planning and full safety support.

Q: Do I get a certificate for summiting Batian?

A: Absolutely! All successful climbers receive a Certificate of Achievement from Ahambi Tours.

Book Your 6 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit Today

Climbing Batian Summit is one of the most rewarding achievements for serious mountaineers. With the right preparation and the support of Ahambi Tours’ experienced team, your summit of Mount Kenya’s highest peak is within reach.

To Book: Website: ahambitours.co.ke Email: info@ahambitours.co.ke WhatsApp: +254 725 727167

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Day 1: Nairobi – Sirimon Gate (2,650m) – Old Moses Camp (3,300m)

  • Driving distance: Nairobi to Sirimon Gate – approx. 225 km (5–6 hours)
  • Trekking distance: 9 km
  • Altitude gain: +650m (trekking only)

Depart Nairobi in the morning and drive north past lush highland farms and across the Equator to Nanyuki town. After a short stop for gear check and briefing with the mountain crew, proceed by vehicle to Sirimon Gate (2,650m), the starting point of your trek.

Begin your hike through the dry northern forest zone, which features scattered trees, heathland, and diverse wildlife. You may spot animals like baboons, bushbucks, and colobus monkeys, along with birds such as the Hartlaub’s turaco and golden sunbird. Trek gradually uphill to Old Moses Camp (also known as Judmaier Camp), where you’ll settle in for your first night on the mountain.

Overnight: Old Moses Camp (3,300m)

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Day 2: Old Moses Camp (3,300m) – Shipton’s Camp (4,200m)

  • Trekking distance: 14 km
  • Altitude gain: +900m

Begin the day with a hike through moorland into the Afro-alpine zone. Watch for unique plants like giant lobelias and red hot pokers, and birds such as the mountain chat and malachite sunbird. Cross rivers and valleys including the Likii and Mackinder’s valleys before arriving at Shipton’s Camp, nestled beneath the towering peaks.

Overnight: Shipton’s Camp (4,200m)

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Day 3: Shipton’s Camp – Point Lenana (4,985m) – Shipton’s Camp

  • Trekking distance (round trip): 8 km
  • Altitude gain/loss: +785m / -785m

Start your summit attempt at 03:00 am for a spectacular sunrise at Point Lenana. Trek through scree and possibly snow. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views, including Mount Kilimanjaro on a clear day. Descend back to Shipton’s Camp for rest and acclimatization ahead of the technical climb.

Overnight: Shipton’s Camp (4,200m)

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Day 4: Technical Climb to Batian Peak (5,199m) – Return to Shipton’s Camp

  • Climbing distance: ~600 vertical meters
  • Altitude gain/loss: +999m / -999m
  • Time: 11–13 hours round trip
  • Number of pitches: 21 technical pitches

Leave camp early (around 04:00 am) and scramble to the base of the North Face Standard Route. Begin the technical ascent to Mount Kenya’s highest peak, Batian. This full-day climb requires good rock-climbing skills and endurance. Expect a mix of scrambling, rock climbing (graded IV to V), and rappelling. Return to Shipton’s Camp late in the evening.

Overnight: Shipton’s Camp (4,200m)

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Day 5: Shipton’s Camp – Mintos Hut – Meru Bandas (2,950m)

  • Trekking distance: 25 km
  • Altitude loss: -1,250m

Today you switch to the eastern side of the mountain via Simba Col, trekking through a dramatic alpine landscape with views of the Gorges Valley. You’ll pass by Mintos Hut and continue your descent with a scenic detour to the beautiful Nithi Falls, a perfect photo and rest stop before lunch.

The final stretch takes you through the upper forest zone to Meru Mount Kenya Bandas, where you’ll enjoy the luxury of a hot shower—a well-earned comfort after several days in the wild. The bandas offer a cozy, restful atmosphere surrounded by forest and birdsong.

Overnight: Meru Bandas (2,950m)

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Day 6: Meru Bandas (2,950m) – Chogoria Gate – Chogoria Town – Nairobi

  • Trekking distance: 10 km (to park exit)
  • Altitude loss: -500m

Begin your final day with a relaxed morning hike through the lush Chogoria Forest, a prime area for birdwatching and spotting colobus monkeys. After about 2–3 hours of gentle descent, you’ll reach the forest clearance where a 4×4 vehicle will be waiting.

From here, drive to Chogoria Town for a short stop, then continue your journey back to Nairobi, arriving in the evening—marking the end of an unforgettable Mount Kenya expedition.