Camping in Mount Kenya

If you’re a budget traveler looking for where to camp when climbing or hiking in Mt. Kenya, then you’re in luck! There are a variety of camping options available that won’t break the bank. Whether you prefer basic campsites or more luxurious spots with extra amenities, there’s something for everyone.

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About Mount Kenya:

Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya and the second-highest in Africa, standing at 5,199 meters (17,057 feet) tall. It’s an incredible destination for hikers and climbers alike, with its stunning peaks and glaciers providing an unforgettable experience.

I have not camped in Mount Kenya but as I researched this article on camping in Mount Kenya, I found great campgrounds such as Lake Ellis which is a great base camp for exploring the Mount Kenya National Park. The camp is close to some of the highest peaks and glaciers, making it an ideal place to stay when climbing or hiking in this region. It also offers basic amenities such as hot showers, toilets, running water and a kitchen.

Here is a snapshot showing campsites in Mount kenya

Top Campsites in Mount Kenya:

Shiptons campsite Mt Kenya

Shiptons Camp Mountain Hut at the base of Mount Kenya is the perfect place to stay before your final journey up to Point Lenana. With bunkers for camping and resting inside the mountain hut, you’ll be well-rested for the last leg of this amazing adventure. Even better than Kilimanjaro, Mount Kenya will present you with alpine meadows, unique high-altitude vegetation, sunbirds, hyrax and soaring eagles unlike anything else in the world.

The camp has the capacity to sleep 100 people and you’ll be charged $24 per night (for 2) but can also rent a mountain hut here for $48. The Check-in for this camp is 13:00 and Check-out is at 10:00 am.

Lake Ellis Campsite:

If you would like to camp close to a small lake, then Lake Ellis Campsite is the perfect spot for you. If you’re looking for a breathtaking and unique camping experience, consider Lake Ellis in Meru County. This campsite is the highest point you can drive to on the mountain, at 3470m above sea level.

Located on the eastern slopes of Mt Kenya at 3,470m asl, this enchanting spot is sure to captivate anyone who makes the journey there. Here are some tips shared by Mwarv gathered from my own trip there last February:

1) Pack warm clothes – even if it’s summertime! The temperature can drop sharply at night
2) Bring plenty of food and water with you – especially if you plan on hiking around the area
3) Be cautious when interacting with wildlife – they may be more timid than usual
4) Take extra care when setting up campfires – open flames are not allowed in certain areas
5 ) Enjoy your time exploring all that this beautiful place has to offer!

This campsite has basic amenities such as toilets, running water, and hot showers. You can also rent a mountain hut here for $48 per night (for two people).

The campground has been reviewed by 54 people on Google with an average high rating of 4.7/5, so you can be sure of a great camping experience.

You can also check out images uploaded by people who have camped at Lake Ellis here.

Other Campsites in Mount Kenya

The Sirimon Gate Campsite is another great option for budget travelers. Located near the Sirimon Gate entrance to Mount Kenya National Park, this campsite offers basic amenities such as toilets, running water and a kitchen. It’s close enough to the national park that it makes an ideal place to stay when exploring the area.

The Naru Moru River Lodge campground located a bit further from the main climbing routes is still a good option for budget travelers looking for affordable camping safaris. Located near the Naru Moru River, this campsite offers basic amenities such as toilets, running water and a kitchen but also has additional luxuries such as hot showers and electricity. It’s close enough to the national park that it makes an ideal base camp when exploring the area.

Oldmoses Camp Mountain Hut

The Old Moses Mountain Hut, which is situated at an elevation of 3300m above sea level, is where hikers spend their first night while summiting the well-known ice-capped peaks of Mount Kenya. At one point in time, Mount Kenya was an active volcano that was 22,000 feet tall. Once hikers summit the mountain, they not only feel a great sense of accomplishment but also get to experience a unique world consisting of intricate high-altitude fauna and flora.

The Oldmoses Camp Mountain Hut offers visitors the choice of sleeping in dormitory style bunkers or pitching a tent on the surrounding grounds. Both mountain huts are equipped with a kitchen and dining area, as well as clean bathrooms.

It cost $24 to camp here. See details here

Laikipia Safari Camp

If you are thinking of spending a night or two in the wild? Then Laikipia Safari Camp is the perfect place for you. Located near Nanyuki town and set on the slopes of Mount Kenya, this camping site offers stunning views of the mountain and its surroundings.

The tents here at camp are raised off the ground on wooden platforms and have large thatched roofs for shade. Each tent has a single bed with a comfortable mattress, but many guests choose to bring their own sleeping bags. If you need linen, we can provide it for a small fee upon request. The men’s and women’s bathrooms are just steps away from the tents.

Camping here costs $42 a night and can check and book here.

Glamping vs camping in Mount Kenya:

Whichever type of camping you choose, you can be sure that the experience will be unique and memorable. Both glamping and traditional camping offer a great opportunity to explore Mount Kenya while connecting with nature.

Glamping is becoming increasingly popular in Mount Kenya due to its many luxurious amenities such as hot showers, electricity, comfortable beds, and more. Traditionalichever option you choose, you can be sure that you will enjoy the stunning scenery and experience the unique wildlife that Mount Kenya has to offer. So don’t wait any longer and start planning your adventure today!

Some of the top glamping sites in Mt Kenya include:

1. Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club – This five-star resort is located right in the heart of Mount Kenya National Park, and offers welcoming accommodations with all the amenities.

2. Naro Moru River Lodge – Located close to the base of Mount Kenya, this luxurious camping site offers a unique blend of nature and modern amenities in an amazing setting.

3. Mountain Rock Retreat – This glamping resort is located near Chogoria town and offers stunning views of the mountain.

What is camping in Mount Kenya like?

Stunning views:

Camping in Mt. Kenya is a great way to experience this incredible region. From the highest peaks and glaciers to the stunning views of the national park, it’s an unforgettable experience.

Surrounded by nature:

Camping in Mount Kenya is a great way to experience the breathtaking beauty of the mountains without breaking your budget. You’ll get to sleep surrounded by nature and explore some of the most remote areas of this ancient mountain range. Plus, with plenty of affordable campsites and camping gear available, you won’t be breaking the bank either!

How much does it cost to camp in Mount Kenya?

The cost of camping in Mount Kenya will vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose and how long your stay is. Generally, prices range from $10 to $50 per night depending on the amenities offered. Some campgrounds also require a booking fee, while others allow you to pay at the campsite itself.

If you are camping with Kambu’s campervans, it is $50 per night inclusive of rental fees, security deposits and will have access to;

Toilet and shower facilities
Access to kitchen
Campfire and barbecue area
Electricity and water supply.

The cost of camping in Mount Kenya can vary depending on the time of year, as well as the availability of campsites. Generally, prices are lower during off-peak seasons such as fall.

Regardless of the type of camping you choose, remember to always practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the environment while exploring Mount Kenya!

What to wear when Camping in Mount Kenya:

When camping in Mt. Kenya, it’s important to dress for the weather and terrain. The average temperature can drop below freezing at night, so you’ll want to bring plenty of layers. You should also pack sturdy footwear for trekking or climbing, as well as a waterproof jacket and hat.

You’ll also want to make sure that your camping gear is up to date; this includes a sleeping bag, tent, first-aid kit, and any other essentials. Having the right camping gear can make all the difference when it comes to having great time in Mount Kenya!

If you hire our campervans or our 4WD vehicles, they come with complete camping gear.

Wrapping it up:

Camping in Mt. Kenya is an incredible experience that gives you the opportunity to explore this stunning region while connecting with nature. Whether you opt for glamping or traditional camping, you can be sure that the experience will be unique and memorable. So don’t wait any longer – start planning your adventure to Mt. Kenya today!

FAQs

How long does it take to climb Mount Kenya?

Hiking and climbing Mount Kenya typically takes between four to six days, depending on the route you take. Most climbers recommend taking at least five days to complete the hike, as this allows for enough time to acclimate to the high altitude. It is also important to pace yourself while hiking up the mountain in order to avoid altitude sickness.

You can climb Mt Kenya in as little as 4 days, but you can also do a traverse and spend 6 days on the mountain. The cost for 4 to 5 days on the mountain, regardless of which route you choose, is between 600 and 700 EUR or 700 and 800 USD.

What is the best time to climb mount Kenya?

The best months to climb Mount Kenya are from January to March and then again from June to October, but with the proper equipment, it can be climbed any month of the year. The rainy seasons have now become more difficult to predict due in part to climate change, however, they typically fall during April, May and November.

Also, read our guide on camping in the Aberdares or in Lake Naivasha which are not far from Mount Kenya National Park.

Happy Camping! 🙂