9 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit
9 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit (with Mid-Route Bivouac)Take your Mount Kenya experience to the next level with Ahambi Tours’ 9-day Batian technical climb—an extended expedition designed for climbers with basic to moderate experience. This itinerary offers a safer, more manageable approach to summiting Batian (5,199 meters / 17,057 ft), the highest peak on Mount Kenya, by splitting the technical climb over two days and including an essential acclimatization day at Shipton’s Camp.
The route follows the iconic North Face Standard Route, known for its multi-pitch exposure, excellent granite, and sweeping alpine scenery. With support from certified technical guides, a dedicated porting crew, and strategic bivouac camping mid-route, this itinerary maximizes your summit success and safety.
Climb Overview: North Face Standard Route with Bivouac
This technical climb approaches from the scenic Chogoria Route, passes through alpine lakes and moorland, and descends via the Sirimon Route—a true traverse across Mount Kenya. The North Face Standard Route features:
- 18–21 rock pitches
- Difficulty: UIAA Grade IV–V+ (YDS 5.7–5.10)
- Natural belay ledges and crack systems for protection
- Mid-route bivouac near Baillie’s Bivouac (~4,700m)
- Summit day of 8–10 hours, including climbing and rappelling
By spending a night partway up the route, climbers avoid the fatigue of a single long summit push, making this itinerary ideal for those still gaining confidence on multi-pitch alpine routes.
Who Is This 9 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit For?
The 9-day Batian climb is best suited for:
- Climbers with basic to moderate experience in trad or alpine climbing
- Adventurers seeking a slower, safer summit approach
- Individuals comfortable with bivouac camping at altitude
- Those looking for more acclimatization time and better success chances
If you’re looking to summit Batian but prefer a more supported and gradual ascent, this is the ideal itinerary.
Why Climb with Ahambi Tours?
Ahambi Tours is one of Kenya’s top-rated Mount Kenya operators with extensive experience in technical climbs. Our service includes:
- Certified climbing and trekking guides with high-altitude experience
- All technical gear provided (ropes, anchors, belay gear)
- Mid-route bivouac logistics for a safe overnight stay on the wall
- Full support team: porters, cook, and transport
- Focus on safety, route pacing, and climber readiness
From planning to peak, we ensure a well-paced, professional expedition with personalized attention.
Best Time to Climb Batian
The North Face is best tackled during Mount Kenya’s dry season, when rock conditions are ideal:
- July to September – Best window for stable weather and good climbing conditions
All climbs begin early to allow maximum daylight on the route.
9 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Itinerary
This detailed itinerary combines trekking, acclimatization, and a staged technical summit:
Day 1: Nairobi – Chogoria Gate (2,950m)
Drive Distance: 210km | Trek Distance: 10km | Altitude Gain: +600m | Trek Time: 2–3 hrs
Pick-up in Nairobi and drive to Chogoria Town. Transfer by 4×4 to the park gate, then take a short acclimatization walk before overnight in huts.
Day 2: Chogoria Gate – Lake Ellis (3,400m)
Trek Distance: 9km | Altitude Gain: +450m | Trek Time: 4–5 hrs
Gentle trek through montane forest and moorland to the scenic shores of Lake Ellis.
Day 3: Lake Ellis – Minto’s Hut (4,200m)
Trek Distance: 12km | Altitude Gain: +800m | Trek Time: 5–6 hrs
Cross the Nithi River and ascend into the alpine zone with views of Lake Michaelson.
Day 4: Minto’s Hut – Point Lenana (4,985m) – Shipton’s Camp (4,200m)
Trek Distance: 14km | Altitude Gain/Loss: +785m / –785m | Trek Time: 8–10 hrs
Pre-dawn summit to Point Lenana for sunrise, then descend via Lewis Glacier to Shipton’s Camp.
Day 5: Acclimatization – Shipton’s Camp (4,200m)
Optional short hikes above 4,400m to improve acclimatization before the technical climb.
Day 6: Shipton’s Camp – Mid-Route Bivouac (~4,700m)
Climb Time: 3–4 hrs | Altitude Gain: +500m
Climb the lower pitches of the North Face Standard Route and bivouac mid-route for a shorter summit push.
Day 7: Mid-Route Bivouac – Batian Peak (5,199m) – Shipton’s Camp
Climb Time: 8–10 hrs | Altitude Gain/Loss: +499m / –999m
Complete the upper pitches to Batian’s summit before descending to Shipton’s Camp.
Day 8: Shipton’s – Old Moses Camp (3,300m)
Trek Distance: 14km | Altitude Loss: –900m | Trek Time: 5–6 hrs
Descend via Mackinder’s Valley to Old Moses Camp.
Day 9: Old Moses – Sirimon Gate – Nairobi
Trek Distance: 9km | Altitude Loss: –700m | Trek Time: 2–3 hrs | Drive Distance: ~200km
Final descent to Sirimon Gate before driving back to Nairobi.
Package Includes:
- Certified technical climbing guide
- Professional trekking guide
- All climbing permits, park fees, and levies
- Mid-route bivouac logistics
- Full meals and accommodation on the mountain
- Mountain crew: cook, porters, logistical support
- Transport to/from Mount Kenya from Nairobi
- Technical climbing gear (ropes, anchors)
- Emergency radio communication and backup plan
- Certificate of Achievement after successful summit
Price for 9-Day Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit (USD per person):
| Pax | Price in USD |
| 1 | $2,500 |
| 2+ | $2,250 |
What to Bring for the 9 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit
We provide ropes and technical gear. You’ll need:
- Climbing shoes, harness, and helmet
- Belay device (mandatory for multi-pitch belays)
- Bivy sack (required for overnight mid-route)
- Warm layered clothing + waterproof outer shell
- Mountaineering boots suitable for mixed terrain
- High-quality sleeping bag (-10°C or lower)
- Headlamp, gloves, refillable water bottles
- Trekking poles, sunglasses, snacks
Need gear? Rental options are available—just ask!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is this route easier than the direct 1-day summit push?
A: Yes, the mid-route bivouac splits the climb, making it safer and less physically demanding.
Q: Is this climb suitable for beginners?
A: It’s ideal for climbers with basic multi-pitch experience and good physical fitness.
Q: What’s the advantage of the Chogoria–Sirimon combination?
A: It allows for a scenic ascent and a more gradual descent, offering a full traverse of Mount Kenya.
Q: Do I need to carry all my gear to the summit?
A: No. Porters carry your gear to base camps, and you climb with a light technical pack.
Q: Will I get a summit certificate?
A: Yes! All successful climbers receive a Certificate of Achievement.
Book Your 9-Day Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Batian Summit Today
This expedition offers a rare chance to summit Mount Kenya’s highest peak on a schedule that prioritizes safety, acclimatization, and success. Ready to conquer Batian?
Email: info@ahambitours.co.ke Website: www.ahambitours.co.ke WhatsApp: +254 725 727167
