8 Days Mount Kenya Batian Technical Climb – Sirimon via Likii North - Mount Kenya trekking
Mount Kenya Treks

8 Days Mount Kenya Batian Technical Climb – Sirimon via Likii North

An eight-day Batian North Face technical expedition approaching via Sirimon and Likii North, with acclimatization and a reserve day.

Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights Route: Sirimon Gate – Old Moses – Likii North – Shipton’s Camp – Austrian Hut – Batian North Face – Sirimon Difficulty: Technical
The Experience

Overview

This eight-day expedition approaches Mount Kenya’s technical climbing terrain through Sirimon and Likii North, with additional time for acclimatization before attempting Batian (5,199 m) via the North Face route. It includes technical preparation, an approach to Austrian Hut/high camp, a summit attempt and a reserve day for weather or recovery. This is an advanced alpine climb requiring previous technical climbing experience. There is no overnight stay on Batian.
Why This Expedition

Tour Highlights

Approach through Sirimon and the Likii North valley.
Acclimatize at Shipton’s Camp around 4,200 m.
Technical Batian North Face summit attempt.
Austrian Hut/high camp approach.
Reserve day for weather, rest or a second attempt if safe.
No overnight stay on Batian.
Places Along The Journey

Destinations

What You'll Do

Activities

Day By Day

Itinerary

Day 1

Nairobi – Sirimon Gate – Old Moses Camp

Drive to Sirimon Gate, complete park formalities and trek through forest toward Old Moses Camp at about 3,300 m. Walking time 3–4 hours. Overnight at Old Moses Camp.

Day 2

Old Moses – Likii North – Shipton’s Camp

Trek across moorland and alpine terrain via the Likii North area toward Shipton’s Camp at about 4,200 m. Walking time 7–9 hours. Maintain a steady pace and hydrate. Overnight at Shipton’s Camp.

Day 3

Acclimatization and technical preparation at Shipton’s Camp

Take a short acclimatization hike as conditions permit, then check ropes, harnesses, helmets, climbing shoes and protection systems with the technical guides. Rest before moving higher. Overnight at Shipton’s Camp.

Day 4

Shipton’s Camp – Austrian Hut/high camp

Move toward the high-altitude climbing area, descending toward the Kami Camp area where required and continuing to Austrian Hut or the designated high camp around 4,790 m. Allow 4–6 hours for walking/climbing and preparation. Overnight at Austrian Hut/designated camp.

Day 5

Batian North Face technical summit attempt

Start very early for the North Face route. The climb involves exposed scrambling and technical rock pitches, with rope protection and careful movement at altitude. Climbing time may be 8–12+ hours. Attempt Batian at 5,199 m only if the guide considers conditions safe; descend to the lower high-altitude camp the same day. No overnight on Batian. Overnight at Austrian Hut/designated camp.

Day 6

Reserve / weather / recovery day

If the summit was completed, use the day for recovery before descent. If weather prevented the attempt, a second attempt may be considered only if route conditions, timing and guide assessment allow. Overnight at Austrian Hut/high camp.

Day 7

Austrian Hut – Shipton’s Camp – Old Moses Camp

Descend through alpine terrain toward Shipton’s Camp and continue toward Old Moses Camp. Walking time approximately 6–8 hours. Overnight at Old Moses Camp.

Day 8

Old Moses – Sirimon Gate – Nairobi

Complete the descent through forest to Sirimon Gate and transfer back to Nairobi.

Included

What's Included

  • Transport from Nairobi to Mount Kenya and return.
  • Mount Kenya National Park entry and applicable climbing fees.
  • Professional technical mountain guide.
  • Porters and mountain accommodation according to itinerary.
  • Meals during the expedition.
  • Camping/mountain accommodation equipment where applicable.
  • Technical climbing support and Batian summit attempt.
  • Applicable government/local mountain charges.
Not Included

What's Not Included

  • Personal technical climbing equipment unless confirmed in writing.
  • Travel and medical insurance.
  • Sleeping bag and personal clothing/gear.
  • Personal expenses, tips, drinks and snacks.
  • Accommodation in Nairobi before or after the climb.
  • Evacuation costs and services not specifically listed as included.
When To Go

Best Time to Trek

For Batian and other technical objectives, January–March and July–October are often considered as planning windows because they are generally drier. Conditions at altitude can change quickly; the technical guide must assess rock, weather, visibility and the party’s readiness before climbing.

Prepare For The Mountain

What to Pack

PACKING CHECKLIST — TECHNICAL CLIMB

Approach and trekking kit: broken-in approach or mountain boots, trekking socks, daypack, rain cover, trekking poles if advised, headlamp with spare batteries, water containers and dry bags.

Clothing: moisture-wicking base layers, warm insulation, waterproof and windproof shell, climbing trousers, warm hat, sun hat and suitable gloves.

Technical equipment: helmet, harness, suitable climbing footwear, belay/rappel device, locking and non-locking carabiners, slings, prusiks and route-specific protection as confirmed by the lead guide. Verify whether ropes and shared equipment are supplied.

Also bring sunglasses, sunscreen, personal medication, blister care, toiletries and insurance details. Confirm the exact equipment list and technical requirements with the expedition leader before departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

Is this package suitable for ordinary hikers?

No. Batian is a technical climbing objective. Participants need appropriate climbing experience, equipment and approval from a qualified technical guide.

What role does the Sirimon–Likii North approach play?

It forms part of the approach described for this expedition. The guide will confirm the exact approach and camp locations according to current conditions and the final itinerary.

Is the climb guaranteed to reach Batian?

No. Reaching the summit depends on weather, route conditions, climber health, ability and the guide’s safety decision.

What gear should I prepare?

Ask the operator for a route-specific equipment list. Technical climbing hardware and personal protective equipment must be suitable for the planned route and confirmed with the guide.

Interested in This Trek?

Tell us your preferred travel dates, number of travellers and any questions you have about the expedition.