Rock Climbing – Batian Peak 7 Days
Take on Africa’s most legendary alpine challenge — the North Face Standard Route to Batian Peak (5,199m) on Mount Kenya. This 7-day expedition is designed for experienced climbers seeking the ultimate high-altitude rock climbing adventure on Africa’s second-highest mountain. The route combines breathtaking scenery, technical climbing, and world-class guiding from our NOLS Africa–certified professionals, ensuring safety, precision, and an unforgettable mountaineering experience.
Climbing the North Face requires solid skills — at least 5.9 American or European V grade proficiency — and strong acclimatization. The ascent features multiple technical pitches, including the iconic Firmin’s Tower, followed by exhilarating exposure along Batian’s summit ridge. The best climbing season is June to September, when the North Face is mostly snow-free, offering stable weather and excellent rock conditions.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi – Mount Kenya Bandas (2,900m)
Depart Nairobi for Chogoria town, enjoy lunch, then transfer by 4×4 to the forest edge. Trek through bamboo forest to Mount Kenya Bandas (3,000m) for dinner and overnight.
Day 2: Mount Kenya Bandas – Lake Ellis (3,600m)
Begin a scenic trek via Lake Ellis, passing views of Mugi, Ithanguni, and the Giants Billiards Table. Camp beside the lake under starry skies.
Day 3: Lake Ellis – Minto’s Camp (4,200m)
Ascend along a ridge with panoramic views of the Gorges Valley and Northern Moorlands. Overnight at Minto’s Camp, near the breathtaking “Temple” cliffs.
Day 4: Minto’s – Shipton’s Camp (4,200m)
Cross alpine moorlands to Point Lenana (4,985m) before descending to Shipton’s Camp, your base for the technical climb ahead.
Day 5: Shipton’s – Batian Peak (5,199m) – Shipton’s
Summit Day. Begin at 4:00 am, climbing the classic North Face Standard Route. Tackle 18 pitches of world-class granite, including the challenging Firmin’s Tower, before reaching the Batian Summit Ridge for awe-inspiring views across Kenya. Descend via the same route to Shipton’s Camp for overnight.
Day 6: Shipton’s Camp (Spare Day)
Reserved for acclimatization or in case of adverse weather.
Day 7: Shipton’s – Old Moses – Nairobi
Descend through Mackinder’s Valley to Old Moses Camp for lunch, then transfer back to Nairobi by evening.
The following items are included in prices:
- Private return transfers Nairobi – Mount Kenya
- Park entry fees
- All meals on the mountain
- Accommodation (huts or camping)
- Professional guide services
- Porter support
Not Included
- Personal clothing & equipment (see list)
- Tips for guides & porters (10–15% recommended)
- Drinks not included in the package
Other Routes
Highlights of the North Face Standard Route
- Highlights of the North Face Standard Route
- Summit Batian Peak (5,199m): Africa’s highest technical alpine ascent.
- Technical Rock Climb: 18 pitches of world-class granite including Firmin’s Tower.
- Professional Guides: NOLS Africa–certified for safety and technical excellence.
- Optimal Climbing Season: June to September for stable, snow-free conditions.
- Scenic Traverse: Experience forest, moorland, and alpine wilderness.
Conquer Mount Kenya’s Batian Peak via the North Face Standard Route — the ultimate 7-day alpine rock climbing adventure in Africa.
