Mount Kenya, Kenya's highest mountain, is an ancient volcano lying astride the equator, its icy summit rising to a height of 5,199m. All of the mountain above the 3,200m contour forms a National Park. Its ascent takes you through several distinct vegetation zones - the game rich rain forests which cover the lower slopes; above this the bamboo belt; then parklands leading to alpine moorlands with their distinctive vegetation of giant groundsels and lobelias and tarns of crystal clear water; and finally out of the screes rise the glaciated summits of Mount Kenya. Many rivers flow from the perpetual snows, among them the mighty Tana, source of much of Kenya's electricity supply. The two main summits, Batian and Nelion are accessible to skilled mountaineers only. The third highest summit, Point Lenana at 4,985m, can be reached by walkers and provides a stunning viewpoint. The weather is at its best for climbing during January, February, August and September but is also good during March, June, July, October and December. The remaining months of April, May and November are the only times when climbing is not recommended due to the rains.

Climate, flora and fauna on Mt. Kenya varies with altitude. The park includes a variety of habitats ranging from higher forest, bamboo, alpine moorlands, glaciers, tarns and glacial morains. The park is dominated by the twin peaks of the mountain - Batian (5200m) and Nelion (5188m).