When a German missionary in 1833 reported a snow-capped mountain just 10 miles south of the equator, everybody thought he was quite mad. It still sounds absurd but it is true.
Mt. Kenya is often obscured by cloud but when it clears a magnificent snowy peak dominates the skyline and permanent glaciers grace its slopes . Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya, and the second-highest mountain in Africa. Mount Kenya National Park protects its magnificent surrounding areas.
Its existence was confirmed to the western world in 1849, but it still took another 50 years before anyone climbed to the 16,900-foot summit. Today you can reside in comfort at the Mt. Kenya Safari Club and stare up at the alluring pinnacle. Alternatively you can take a number of different routes to the top and taking a guide and porter will improve your chances of getting to the top without exhaustion or altitude sickness.
Kenya's Central Highlands are full of intrigue and the local Kikuyu people believe that their God Ngai inhabits Mt. Kenya. As a result they always position their houses to face towards this sacred peak.
The fertile slopes of Kenya's Central Highlands have always been coveted by locals and Europeans alike, however today most of the Aberdare Range has been protected within the Aberdare National Park.
Aberdare is now an area visited for its peace and tranquility. It has become famous for its tree-house hotels namely, 'The Ark' and 'Treetops'. From their high stilted positions you have views over the waterhole and natural salt licks where Elephants, Hyena, Buffalo, Lions and Leopard make appearances. Best sightings are at night when the floodlit arena receives its more timid visitors.