Mount Kenya is Africa's second-highest mountain, and trekking to Point Lenana (4,985 m) is one of the great East African adventures. The mountain is also cold, wet and windy at the top. The good news is that you don't need to buy expensive kit: with adventure gear rental in Nairobi you can hire most of it for the trip. Here is the complete list.
Know your route and conditions
The most popular routes are Sirimon, Naro Moru and Chogoria, and most treks take 4–5 days. Days can be sunny, but nights at the high camps drop below freezing, and rain or sleet is possible at any time of year. The wettest months are generally April–May and November. Pack for all four seasons.
Gear you can hire from Kifaru Kampers
| Item | Why you need it |
|---|---|
| Warm sleeping bag | Essential for sub-zero nights at the high camps |
| Self-inflating mattress | Insulates you from the cold ground |
| 2–3 person waterproof tent | If you are camping rather than using huts |
| Headlamp | Summit day starts in the dark, around 2–3 a.m. |
| Hiking poles | Save your knees on steep, rocky descents |
| Gaiters | Keep mud, scree and the vertical bog out of your boots |
| Hiking gloves and inner gloves | Fingers freeze fast near the summit |
| Rain poncho | Afternoon showers are common on the lower slopes |
See all our outdoor gear hire in Nairobi.
What to bring yourself
- Broken-in waterproof hiking boots and good socks (wool or synthetic)
- Base layers, a fleece, a down or insulated jacket and a waterproof shell
- Warm hat, sun hat, buff and sunglasses
- A daypack (25–35 L) and a duffel for the porters
- Water bottles or a hydration bladder, and water purification
- Sunscreen, lip balm, a personal first-aid kit and any medication
- Snacks, a power bank and your park entry receipts
Tips for a successful climb
- Allow time to acclimatise: an extra night on the way up greatly improves your chance of reaching the summit.
- Keep your sleeping bag dry. Pack it in a waterproof bag inside your duffel.
- Collect your hired gear a day or two early so you can check everything fits and works.
- Book your hire early for the busy seasons (January–February and July–September).
Need gear or a full camp setup?
Tell us your dates, location and group size. Kifaru Kampers will recommend the right equipment and send you a quote.
Request a quote Call +254 738 201701 WhatsApp usFrequently asked questions
Can I hire hiking gear in Nairobi for Mount Kenya?
Yes. Kifaru Kampers hires out warm sleeping bags, mattresses, tents, headlamps, hiking poles, gaiters, gloves and rain ponchos for Mount Kenya treks.
How cold does it get on Mount Kenya?
Nights at the high camps regularly drop below freezing, and the summit is colder still with wind chill, so a warm sleeping bag and insulated layers are essential.
Which sleeping bag should I rent for Mount Kenya?
Rent our warmest sleeping bag and pair it with a self-inflating mattress for insulation from the ground.
When should I collect hired gear?
Collect a day or two before you travel so you can check sizes and make sure everything works.