Mount Kenya National Park, encompassing the area surrounding the mountain itself, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve – together with the forested national reserve it lies within. It features several distinct ecological zones (a result of varying altitudes), with a dominant type of vegetation, with certain species that are found on the higher slopes endemic specifically to Mount Kenya or East Africa.
The lower slopes are made up of forested areas, while higher up the vegetation consists mostly of bamboo. Still higher, you’ll find the timberline forest. Above this, the landscape changes dramatically, and is dominated by heathers and other species that have adapted to the harsh climate of the uppermost reaches. A Mount Kenya safari is more likely to occur on the lower slopes where the vegetation supports more varied species, including various monkeys, antelope, elephant and buffalo, as well hyena, leopard and occasionally lion.
Mount Kenya itself is an extinct volcano and the country’s highest mountain (the second highest in Africa after Kilimanjaro). Towering over the highlands, it has three peaks, two of which can only be climbed by expert mountaineers. Point Lenana however, is accessible to anyone of reasonable fitness, and some argue that Mount Kenya offers a more varied and interesting climb than Kilimanjaro.
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For every new booking made in 2023, Safari365 will contribute a minimum of $40 USD to Great Commission United and Eco-Children to assist in the further education and care of African youth.
