Climbing in Kenya has a long history and it is more than 100 years since Halford Mackinder did his amazing first ascent of Batian, the highest summit of Mount Kenya. Over the last 50-60 years, the main actors in Kenya (and East Africa) climbing scene have been local climbers like Eric Shipton and D. Cheesmond.
Mountain Climbing is among the main attractions in Kenya, there are a couple of mountains and hills in Kenya; this includes Mt Kenya, Mt Elgon, Mt Longonot, Mt Suswa, Ngong Hills, Loroghi Hills, Narumoru trench, Western Highland, Shimba Hills and Taita Chyulu Hills among others. Mount Kenya is the most popular for mountain climbing, it’s the highest mountain in Kenya and the second highest in Africa, and it’s located across the equator with a height of 5,199 m and a snow-capped peak. The best time to climb is January to March and July through to September are said to be the warm and dry seasons, any time in this period could be the ideal time to plan for your mountain climbing holiday in Kenya.
A unique place for rock climbing is the Hells Gate National Park, 110km from the capital city of Nairobi, is one of the most spectacular destination on the planet. The jewel of Hells gate is Ol Njorowa Gorge, 24km gorge excellent for rock climbing cycling and nature walk. Fischer’s Tower, A 25 m high volcanic column named after the German explorer, who reached the gorge in 1882. It’s the starting point for a wide and deep valley surrounded by red rock walls. Zebras, Giraffe and warthog are seen in this 7km-long stretch leading to the Gorges.
If indoors rock climbing is more of your cup of tea, one can climb in Nairobi at the Diamond Plaza. Whether you are a rock climbing enthusiast, a first time climber, or just want to come and see what it’s all about. Offers climbing birthday parties, staff fun days, team building events, and programs for students. Climbing gym is half climbing, half bouldering. Equipment is available. Outdoor climbing also available. Top rope walls, up to 6.5 meters high. 100+ top rope routes. Bouldering walls, up to 4.1 meters high. 50+ boulder problems.
