7 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit

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

7 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit. Climb to the roof of Mount Kenya—Batian Summit at 5,199 meters (17,057 ft)—on this 7-day technical climbing expedition with Ahambi Tours. Designed for experienced alpine and trad climbers, this itinerary follows the legendary North Face Standard Route, widely regarded as one of Africa’s premier high-altitude rock climbs.

With a built-in acclimatization , this 7-day climb offers the perfect balance of safety, performance, and flexibility. Supported by certified guides, porters, and a logistics team, you’ll enjoy a focused, professional experience from approach to summit.

Route Overview: North Face Standard Route

This route is the classic alpine line to Mount Kenya’s highest point. It involves a long summit day, extensive climbing, and exposed terrain—requiring solid skills and mountain judgment.

Key features:

  1. 18 to 21 rock pitches
  2. Difficulty: UIAA Grade IV to V+ (YDS 5.7–5.10)
  3. Fixed protection at key points, with belay stations and rappels
  4. Summit day duration: 10–12 hours round trip

You’ll launch the climb from Shipton’s Camp, ascending early to maximize daylight and stable conditions.

Why Choose the 7 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit Itinerary?

The additional day adds:

  • Better acclimatization for safer summit attempts
  • Recovery time for improved energy on summit day

This makes it ideal for international climbers and those seeking higher success rates.

 Is This Climb Right for You?

This technical climb is for climbers who:

  • Have trad or alpine multi-pitch climbing experience
  • Are in excellent physical condition
  • Can handle rope work, belaying, rappelling, and exposure
  • Are comfortable trekking at high altitudes

Why Climb Batian with Ahambi Tours?

Ahambi Tours is a trusted operator for technical climbs on Mount Kenya, known for:

  • Highly experienced technical climbing guides (1:2 ratio)
  • Trained trekking support guides
  • Provision of all technical gear and safety equipment
  • Ground transport from Nairobi to the mountain and back
  • Emergency radio contact and 24/7 mountain support
  • Personalized planning with a focus on safety and summit success

Best Time to Climb Batian

The best months to climb Batian via the North Face are:

  • July to September

This period is characterized by dry and stable conditions on the north side, offering the best rock surface and visibility for technical climbs.

7 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit Itinerary

This extended itinerary ensures better acclimatization and weather flexibility while still offering a focused summit attempt.

For a detailed, day-by-day Batian climbing itinerary, click the itinerary button above.

Our 7 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit Package Includes:

  • Certified technical climbing guide (1:2 climber ratio)
  • Trekking guide for approach and descent
  • All park entry fees, permits, and government levy
  • All meals and accommodation during the expedition
  • Full mountain support crew (porters, cook, logistics)
  • Use of ropes, anchors, and technical gear
  • Round-trip transport from Nairobi
  • Emergency response system and mountain communication
  • Certificate of Achievement upon summit

Price for 7 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit (USD per person):

Pax Price in USD
1 $1,900
2 $1,650
3 $1,530
4 $1,410

What to Bring

We supply the group climbing gear. Please bring:

  • Climbing shoes, harness, helmet
  • Layered warm clothing and waterproof outerwear
  • Mountaineering boots
  • Sleeping bag for high-altitude conditions
  • Headlamp, sunglasses, gloves, water containers

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How difficult is the Batian climb?

A: The route includes UIAA IV–V+ pitches, requiring strong trad or alpine climbing skills and comfort with long summit days.

Q: Is the extra day necessary?

A: Yes. The 7-day itinerary increases summit success rates by allowing better acclimatization and flexibility in case of poor weather.

Q: Is a summit hut available?

A: No. Unlike Nelion’s Howell’s Hut, Batian has no summit shelter—climbers must descend the same day.

Q: Is a guide required by law?

A: Yes. KWS regulations mandate a certified guide for all technical climbs on Mount Kenya.

Q: Will I receive a certificate?

A: Absolutely! A Certificate of Achievement is awarded to all climbers who successfully summit Batian.

Book Your 7 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit Today

Reach the highest point on Mount Kenya through a carefully planned and professionally guided expedition with Ahambi Tours. With the right pacing, safety systems, and expert support, you’ll be one step closer to the top of Africa’s most technical peak.

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

1

Day 1: Nairobi – Chogoria Gate (2,950m)

Trekking distance: 10km
Altitude gain: +600m

Your adventure begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel in Nairobi at 7:00 AM. Drive towards the eastern slopes of Mount Kenya to Chogoria town (210 km, approx. 5-6 hours), followed by a transfer to the Chogoria Gate. Enjoy a short acclimatization walk before settling into camp for the night. The trek covers 10km with an altitude gain of 600m.

2

Day 2: Chogoria Gate – Lake Ellis (3,400m)

Trekking distance: 9km
Altitude gain: +450m

After breakfast, trek through lush montane forests, bamboo zones, and open moorlands towards Lake Ellis. The gradual ascent allows for acclimatization while offering breathtaking views of Mugi Hill and the Giant’s Billiards Table. The trek covers 9km with an altitude gain of 450m.

3

Day 3: Lake Ellis – Minto’s Hut (4,200m)

Trekking distance: 12km
Altitude gain: +800m

The trek continues past spectacular landscapes, crossing the Nithi River before ascending to Minto’s Hut. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of Lake Michaelson, one of Mount Kenya’s most picturesque locations. The trek covers 12km with an altitude gain of 800m.

4

Day 4: Minto’s Hut – Point Lenana (4,985m) – Shipton’s Camp (4,200m)

Trekking distance: 14km
Altitude gain: +785m / -785m

Begin the pre-dawn trek to Point Lenana, the trekking summit of Mount Kenya, for a stunning sunrise. After enjoying the breathtaking views, descend through rocky terrain to Shipton’s Camp to rest and prepare for the technical ascent of Batian Peak. The trek covers 14km with an altitude gain of 785m to Point Lenana, followed by a descent of 785m to Shipton’s Camp.

5

Day 5: Shipton’s Camp – Batian Peak (5,199m) – Shipton’s Camp

Climbing time: 10-14 hours
Trekking distance: 6km
Altitude gain/loss: +999m / -999m

Today is the ultimate climbing day. With an early alpine start, embark on the technical ascent of Batian Peak via the North Face Standard Route. The climb involves multi-pitch rock climbing, with approximately 22 pitches, requiring ropework and solid mountaineering skills. After summiting, descend carefully to Shipton’s Camp for overnight rest. The trek covers 6km with an altitude gain and loss of 999m. Today is the ultimate climbing day. With an early alpine start, embark on the technical ascent of Batian Peak via the North Face Standard Route. The climb involves multi-pitch rock climbing, requiring ropework and solid mountaineering skills. After summiting, descend carefully to Shipton’s Camp for overnight rest. The trek covers 6km with an altitude gain and loss of 999m.

6

Day 6: Shipton’s Camp – Old Moses Camp (3,300m)

Trekking distance: 14km

Altitude loss: -900m

After breakfast, descend through the beautiful Mackinder’s Valley to Old Moses Camp (14km). This 14 km trek offers another chance to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of Mount Kenya, including tussock grass, lobelias, and possibly even sightings of wildlife like Verreaux’s eagles and rock hyraxes.

Arrive at Old Moses Camp in the afternoon, where you’ll enjoy dinner and overnight accommodations.

7

Day 7: Old Moses Camp to Sirimon Gate (2,560m) to Nairobi City

  • Trekking Distance: 9 km
  • Altitude Loss: -740m
  • Driving Distance: 195 km (Sirimon Gate to Nairobi)

After breakfast, hike 9 km through the rainforest to Sirimon Gate (2,560m). The descent offers excellent birdwatching opportunities and potential wildlife sightings, including monkeys basking in the morning sun.

At Sirimon Gate, celebrate completing your trek (Congratulations!). Transfer by vehicle to Nairobi, a 195 km drive, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel, marking the end of your Mount Kenya adventure with Ahambi Tours.