7 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Nelion Summit . Looking for a safer, better-acclimatized approach to climbing Nelion? The 7-day Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Nelion Summit offers more time to adjust to altitude, increasing your chances of a successful and comfortable summit. Nelion (5,188m / 17,021 ft), the mountain’s second-highest peak, demands multi-pitch technical climbing and is perfect for experienced trad or alpine climbers.
This extended itinerary with Ahambi Tours gives you an extra day to acclimatize and recover, allowing for better performance on summit day. With certified technical guides, a detailed route plan, and full support from Nairobi to the summit and back, this expedition offers a world-class climbing experience.
Route Overview: South Face Standard Route
Your climb follows the South Face Standard Route, renowned for its high-quality volcanic rock and classic alpine feel. Highlights include:
- 16 to 18 rock pitches of technical climbing
- Difficulty rating: UIAA IV+ to V (YDS 5.6–5.9)
- Fixed belay points at critical sections
- Overnight at Howell’s Hut located on the summit
The route begins from Austrian Hut, with most teams starting the climb before sunrise to take advantage of the best weather and daylight.
Is This Climb Right for You?
The 7-day Nelion climb is suitable for those who:
- Have experience with multi-pitch rock climbing and rope systems
- Are in good physical shape and comfortable at high altitude
- Want to build in extra time for acclimatization and contingency
This itinerary is especially ideal if you’re coming from sea level or climbing above 5,000m for the first time.
Why Choose Ahambi Tours?
Ahambi Tours provides expertly guided technical expeditions on Mount Kenya with a strong focus on safety, preparation, and personalized service. We offer:
- Certified technical climbing guides with years of experience
- Trekking support guides to manage the approach phase
- Full ground logistics from Nairobi and back
- 24/7 communication and emergency readiness on the mountain
- Flexible pacing and extra acclimatization time for success
We specialize in low guide-to-client ratios (1:2) to ensure your experience is safe, supportive, and memorable.
Best Time to Climb Nelion
The best season for climbing Nelion via the South Face is:
- December to March — ideal dry conditions for rock climbing
Our guides monitor daily weather reports to ensure summit day aligns with the most stable window. Sunrise starts are typical for safety and visibility.
7 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Nelion Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi – Sirimon Gate (2,650m) – Old Moses Camp (3,300m)
Drive Distance: 220km | Trek Distance: 9km | Altitude Gain: +650m | Trek Time: 3–4 hrs
Morning pick-up from Nairobi and drive to Sirimon Gate. Trek through montane forest and moorland to Old Moses Camp.
Day 2: Old Moses – Shipton’s Camp (4,200m)
Trek Distance: 14km | Altitude Gain: +900m | Trek Time: 6–7 hrs
Ascend through Mackinder’s Valley with panoramic views of the peaks to Shipton’s Camp.
Day 3: Shipton’s – Teleki Hut (4,300m)
Trek Distance: 8km | Altitude Gain: +100m | Trek Time: 4–5 hrs
Cross Hausberg Col, passing alpine tarns and glacial valleys, before arriving at Teleki Hut for acclimatization.
Day 4: Teleki Hut – Austrian Hut (4,790m)
Trek Distance: 6km | Altitude Gain: +490m | Trek Time: 4–5 hrs
Steep ascent to Austrian Hut, base for the Nelion technical climb. Final acclimatization and gear prep.
Day 5: Austrian Hut – Nelion Peak (5,188m) – Austrian Hut
Climb Distance: 4km (vertical route) | Altitude Gain/Loss: +398m / –398m | Climb Time: 8–12 hrs
Pre-dawn start for the Southeast Face route (18 pitches) to Nelion’s summit. Descend to Austrian Hut.
Day 6: Spare Day – Austrian Hut (4,790m)
Contingency for weather delays. If unused, optional rest, slow descent, or local exploration.
Day 7: Austrian Hut – Chogoria Gate – Nairobi
Trek Distance: 20km | Altitude Loss: –1,840m | Trek Time: 7–8 hrs | Drive Distance: ~210km
Descend via Gorges Valley, passing Lake Michaelson, Vivienne Falls, and Nithi Falls. 4×4 transfer to Chogoria Town, then drive back to Nairobi.
Our Package for 7 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Nelion Summit Includes:
- Professional technical climbing guide
- Trekking guide for approach and acclimatization days
- All park fees, permits, and government levy
- All meals and accommodation during the trek
- Mountain support crew: porters, cook, logistics team
- Ropes, anchors, and technical climbing equipment
- Transport to/from Mount Kenya from Nairobi
- Emergency radio communication and support
- Certificate of Achievement upon successful summit
Price for 7 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Nelion Summit (USD per person):
| Pax | Price in USD |
| 1 | $1,900 |
| 2+ | $1,730 |
What to Bring for the 7 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Nelion Summit
While we provide all essential group climbing gear, you should bring:
- Climbing shoes, harness, helmet
- Layered clothing system, waterproof jacket
- Mountaineering boots
- Lightweight sleeping bag
- Sunglasses, gloves, headlamp, water bottles
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How technical is the climb?
A: The climb involves UIAA IV+ to V graded pitches and requires multi-pitch climbing experience.
Q: Is Howell’s Hut available to use?
A: Yes. The summit hut provides basic shelter for overnight stays on Nelion.
Q: Do I need to summit Batian to climb Nelion?
A: No. Nelion is a standalone summit and one of Mount Kenya’s major climbing objectives.
Q: Is a guide mandatory?
A: Yes. A certified guide is required for all technical climbs per park regulations.
Q: What’s the benefit of a 7-day itinerary?
A: More time for altitude adjustment, rest, and a buffer day to handle weather or fatigue—resulting in better safety and summit success.
Book Your 7 Days Mount Kenya Technical Climb to Nelion Summit Today
Experience one of Africa’s most iconic alpine ascents with Ahambi Tours. Our 7-day itinerary is ideal for those seeking a technically challenging yet properly paced climb with expert support from start to finish.
To Book: Website: ahambitours.co.ke Email: info@ahambitours.co.ke WhatsApp: +254 725 727167