9 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit

9 DAYS - 8 NIGHTS
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9 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit

9 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit (with Mid-Route Bivouac)Take your Mount Kenya experience to the next level with Ahambi Tours’ 9-day Batian technical climb—an extended expedition designed for climbers with basic to moderate experience. This itinerary offers a safer, more manageable approach to summiting Batian (5,199 meters / 17,057 ft), the highest peak on Mount Kenya, by splitting the technical climb over two days and including an essential acclimatization day at Shipton’s Camp.

The route follows the iconic North Face Standard Route, known for its multi-pitch exposure, excellent granite, and sweeping alpine scenery. With support from certified technical guides, a dedicated porting crew, and strategic bivouac camping mid-route, this itinerary maximizes your summit success and safety.

Climb Overview: North Face Standard Route with Bivouac

This technical climb approaches from the scenic Chogoria Route, passes through alpine lakes and moorland, and descends via the Sirimon Route—a true traverse across Mount Kenya. The North Face Standard Route features:

  • 18–21 rock pitches
  • Difficulty: UIAA Grade IV–V+ (YDS 5.7–5.10)
  • Natural belay ledges and crack systems for protection
  • Mid-route bivouac near Baillie’s Bivouac (~4,700m)
  • Summit day of 8–10 hours, including climbing and rappelling

By spending a night partway up the route, climbers avoid the fatigue of a single long summit push, making this itinerary ideal for those still gaining confidence on multi-pitch alpine routes.

Who Is This 9 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit For?

The 9-day Batian climb is best suited for:

  • Climbers with basic to moderate experience in trad or alpine climbing
  • Adventurers seeking a slower, safer summit approach
  • Individuals comfortable with bivouac camping at altitude
  • Those looking for more acclimatization time and better success chances

If you’re looking to summit Batian but prefer a more supported and gradual ascent, this is the ideal itinerary.

Why Climb with Ahambi Tours?

Ahambi Tours is one of Kenya’s top-rated Mount Kenya operators with extensive experience in technical climbs. Our service includes:

  • Certified climbing and trekking guides with high-altitude experience
  • All technical gear provided (ropes, anchors, belay gear)
  • Mid-route bivouac logistics for a safe overnight stay on the wall
  • Full support team: porters, cook, and transport
  • Focus on safety, route pacing, and climber readiness

From planning to peak, we ensure a well-paced, professional expedition with personalized attention.

Best Time to Climb Batian

The North Face is best tackled during Mount Kenya’s dry season, when rock conditions are ideal:

  • July to September – Best window for stable weather and good climbing conditions
    All climbs begin early to allow maximum daylight on the route.

9 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit Itinerary

This detailed itinerary combines trekking, acclimatization, and a staged technical summit:

  • Day 1: Nairobi – Chogoria Gate (2,950m)
  • Day 2: Chogoria Gate – Lake Ellis (3,400m)
  • Day 3: Lake Ellis – Minto’s Hut (4,200m)
  • Day 4: Minto’s – Point Lenana (4,985m) – Shipton’s Camp (4,200m)
  • Day 5: Acclimatization Day at Shipton’s Camp
  • Day 6: Begin climb – bivouac midway on North Face (~4,700m)
  • Day 7: Bivouac – Batian Summit (5,199m) – descend to Shipton’s
  • Day 8: Shipton’s Camp – Old Moses Camp (3,300m)
  • Day 9: Old Moses – Sirimon Gate – drive to Nairobi

For full details, see the full day-by-day itinerary above.

Package Includes:

  • Certified technical climbing guide
  • Professional trekking guide
  • All climbing permits, park fees, and levies
  • Mid-route bivouac logistics
  • Full meals and accommodation on the mountain
  • Mountain crew: cook, porters, logistical support
  • Transport to/from Mount Kenya from Nairobi
  • Technical climbing gear (ropes, anchors)
  • Emergency radio communication and backup plan
  • Certificate of Achievement after successful summit

Price for 9-Day Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit (USD per person):

Pax Price (USD)
1 $2,400
2 $2,200
3 $2,100
4 $2,000

What to Bring for the 9 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit

We provide ropes and technical gear. You’ll need:

  • Climbing shoes, harness, and helmet
  • Belay device (mandatory for multi-pitch belays)
  • Bivy sack (required for overnight mid-route)
  • Warm layered clothing + waterproof outer shell
  • Mountaineering boots suitable for mixed terrain
  • High-quality sleeping bag (-10°C or lower)
  • Headlamp, gloves, refillable water bottles
  • Trekking poles, sunglasses, snacks

Need gear? Rental options are available—just ask!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is this route easier than the direct 1-day summit push?
A: Yes, the mid-route bivouac splits the climb, making it safer and less physically demanding.

Q: Is this climb suitable for beginners?
A: It’s ideal for climbers with basic multi-pitch experience and good physical fitness.

Q: What’s the advantage of the Chogoria–Sirimon combination?
A: It allows for a scenic ascent and a more gradual descent, offering a full traverse of Mount Kenya.

Q: Do I need to carry all my gear to the summit?
A: No. Porters carry your gear to base camps, and you climb with a light technical pack.

Q: Will I get a summit certificate?
A: Yes! All successful climbers receive a Certificate of Achievement.

Book Your 9-Day Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit Today

This expedition offers a rare chance to summit Mount Kenya’s highest peak on a schedule that prioritizes safety, acclimatization, and success. Ready to conquer Batian?

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

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

  • Approximate drive time: 5–6 hours
  • Trekking distance: 10km
  • Altitude gain: +600m

Your adventure begins with a pick-up at your hotel in Nairobi at 8:00 AM. Drive towards the eastern slopes of Mount Kenya to Chogoria town (210 km), followed by a transfer to the Chogoria Gate. Enjoy a short acclimatization walk before settling into the huts for the night. The trek covers 10km with an altitude gain of 600m.

2

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

  • Trekking time: 4–5 hours
  • Trekking distance: 9km
  • Altitude gain: +450m

After breakfast, trek through lush montane forest and moorland toward Lake Ellis. The route is gentle and scenic, perfect for gradual acclimatization.

3

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

  • Trekking time: 5–6 hours
  • Trekking distance: 12km
  • Altitude gain: +800m

Continue hiking past moorland and valleys, crossing the Nithi River and ascending to Minto’s Hut, near the spectacular Lake Michaelson. Expect sweeping views and an increase in altitude as you approach the alpine zone.

4

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

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

Start early for a pre-dawn ascent to Point Lenana, enjoying sunrise at the summit. From here, descend via Lewis Glacier to Shipton’s Camp, where you rest and prepare for the technical summit push.

5

Day 5: Acclimatization Day at Shipton’s Camp (4,200m)

Spend the day acclimatizing with short hikes above 4,400m before returning to camp. This day significantly improves your success rate for Batian and ensures you’re physically ready for the climb.

6

Day 6: Shipton’s Camp – Mid-Route Bivouac (Approx. 4,700m)

  • Climbing time: 3–4 hours
  • Altitude gain: +500m

Today, begin your approach to Batian by climbing the lower pitches of the North Face Standard Route. Establish a bivouac at a sheltered spot mid-way through the route (often near Baillie’s Bivouac or another suitable ledge), allowing for a shorter summit push the next morning.

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Day 7: Mid-Route Bivouac – Batian Peak (5,199m) – Shipton’s Camp

  • Climbing time: 8–10 hours
  • Altitude gain/loss: +499m / -999m

Pre-dawn alpine start. Complete the upper pitches of the climb to reach Batian, Mount Kenya’s true summit. After celebrating at the top, begin a careful descent back to Shipton’s Camp for overnight rest.

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Day 8: Shipton’s Camp – Old Moses Camp (3,300m)

  • Trekking time: 5–6 hours
  • Trekking distance: 14km
  • Altitude loss: -900m

Descend along the Sirimon Route through Mackinder’s Valley, where you’ll encounter high-altitude flora and expansive landscapes. Overnight at Old Moses Camp.

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Day 9: Old Moses Camp – Sirimon Gate – Nairobi

  • Trekking time: 2–3 hours
  • Trekking distance: 9km
  • Altitude loss: -700m
  • Drive time: 4–5 hours

The final stretch of your trek leads to Sirimon Gate (9km, altitude loss of 700m), where you will be picked up for your return trip to Nairobi (200 km, approx. 4-5 hours). Enjoy the scenic drive back, arriving in the afternoon.