Why Mount Kenya Might Be a Better Climb Than Kilimanjaro

For many, Kilimanjaro is the only choice they have heard about choice when it comes to trekking in Africa. There's so much more, and in this case, it's just next door.

For those looking for something alot quieter, more varied in terms of landscapes, and more rewarding than simply ticking a box, Mount Kenya offers that experience and it is much more affordable than Kili climbs, which are more expensive because of the daily permits you need to be on the mountain. 

It's the 'trekkers trek' in Africa, the real deal, and if you're considering Kilimanjaro then you should certainly give Mt Kenya serious consideration - or why not combine them both in the same trip!

Quieter Trails, Richer Experience

Unlike Kilimanjaro, which sees tens of thousands of trekkers each year, Mount Kenya remains refreshingly uncrowded. You'll often have the trail to yourself – no queuing for campsites, no overtaking porters, and no headlamp traffic jams on summit day.

“The beautiful rugged nature of Kenya really stays with you. It felt remote, untouched and completely wild.”
– J. de Graaf, NSW, Australia

 

 

Trekking – Not Just Altitude Walking

While Kilimanjaro is mostly a long uphill grind, Mount Kenya offers real trekking. You’ll traverse valleys, contour ridges, hike past alpine lakes, and summit via a well-paced route – not just a single file to the top.

“Our guide Edwin was very experienced and set a slow, measured pace for each day. That made the summit feel achievable – and enjoyable.”
– Josephine D., Cranebrook, NSW

A Complete Traverse – Not an Out-and-Back

Most Kilimanjaro treks ascend and descend similar routes. On Mount Kenya, you do a full mountain traverse, starting from the forested Chogoria side, ascending past Lake Ellis and Lake Michaelson, and descending via the open alpine Mackinder Valley.

“The trip was well organised. The guides were very professional and did everything possible to ensure we all reached the summit.”
– John Eastgate, UK

 

 

Diverse Landscapes and Glacial Beauty

From bamboo forests to Afro-alpine meadows, from lava towers to glacial tarns – Mount Kenya’s diversity is unmatched in East Africa. It’s no surprise the massif is UNESCO-listed for both natural and cultural values.

Exceptional Value – Half the Cost of Kili

Many trekkers don’t realise Mount Kenya is significantly more affordable than Kilimanjaro – often less than half the cost, with a far richer experience. And unlike the highly commercialised Kili routes, every detail on Mount Kenya feels curated, not crowded.

“Super well organised, safe, great local guides and brilliant facilities – including the food, which was somehow amazing even in freezing weather.”
– Gina Jardine, UK

 

 

High Success, Strong Support

With fewer altitude-related issues and excellent natural acclimatisation built into the itinerary, the Mt Kenya trek boasts a very high success rate. The guiding teams receive consistent praise for their professionalism and care.

“We were very well looked after by our guide, the cook and all the porters. We have a lot of respect for them all.”
– Raymond D., NSW, Australia

So, Is Mount Kenya the Better Climb?

If you're chasing the highest peak for the brag, Kilimanjaro still wears the crown. But if you want a trek that surprises, challenges, and immerses you in a mountain landscape - without the crowds or the hefty price tag that comes with being the tallest - we think that Mount Kenya might just be Africa’s best-kept trekking secret.