Budget guide
Cost of Climbing Mount Kenya - What to Budget
Mount Kenya is one of the best-value high-altitude treks in the world - significantly cheaper than Kilimanjaro with comparable scenery and challenge. Here is exactly where the money goes and what total budget to plan for.
Cost breakdown
KWS Park Entry Fees
~$70 USD/person/dayKenya Wildlife Service (KWS) charges a daily conservation fee for Mount Kenya National Park. The non-resident rate is approximately $70 USD per person per day. Resident and East African citizen rates are significantly lower. For a 5-day trek, this amounts to roughly $350 USD per person in park fees alone. We include and manage this as part of every package - you do not pay at the gate separately.
Camping & Hut Fees
~$15-$30/person/nightKWS charges a separate concession fee for camping within the park. Designated campsites (Old Moses, Shipton's, Mintos, Mackinder's) have different rates. Mountain huts (Austrian Hut, Meru Bandas) are priced separately and typically cost more than camping. All accommodation fees are included in our all-inclusive packages.
Certified Guide
Included in packageA KWS-registered guide is legally required for all trekkers in Mount Kenya National Park. Guide fees typically run $50-$100 USD per day depending on experience and route complexity. Our guides are highly experienced with deep knowledge of each route, first aid training, and altitude sickness recognition. This is the most important cost on the mountain - do not economise here.
Porters & Cook
Included in packageEach trekker typically has 1-2 porters carrying their main pack, tent, and food. A camp cook prepares all meals on mountain. Porter wages comply with KWS and industry fair-wage guidelines. Groups of 4+ share a cook. All porter and cook costs are included in our all-inclusive quotes.
Equipment Hire
$50-$150 USD (optional)We can arrange sleeping bag hire ($10-$20 USD/day), trekking pole hire, and other gear in Nanyuki if you don't own suitable equipment. Tents and group cooking equipment are provided by us. Ask us when booking about what you need to bring vs what we supply.
Transport
Included in packageTransport from Nanyuki to the trailhead gate and back is included in our packages. For the Chogoria-Sirimon Traverse, a vehicle transfer between the two gates is arranged and included. Getting to Nanyuki from Nairobi is separate - typically a 3-hour drive or shuttle bus (~$15-$30 USD).
Total budget ranges (all-inclusive, per person)
| Package | Route | Days | Est. cost (2 pax) | Est. cost (6 pax) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Express | Naro Moru | 3-4 | $700-$900 | $600-$750 |
| Standard | Sirimon | 4-5 | $850-$1,100 | $750-$950 |
| Scenic | Chogoria | 5-6 | $950-$1,200 | $850-$1,050 |
| Traverse | Chogoria-Sirimon | 6-7 | $1,100-$1,500 | $950-$1,250 |
| Wilderness | Burguret or Timau | 5-6 | $950-$1,200 | $850-$1,050 |
Costs include: park fees, camping fees, guide, porters, cook, all meals on mountain, group camping equipment, and transport from Nanyuki. Costs decrease per person in larger groups. Prices are indicative - confirm exact pricing with us for your dates and group size.
What is not included
- -International flights and Nairobi accommodation - book independently or ask us for recommendations.
- -Travel insurance - mandatory and your own responsibility. Must include high-altitude trekking (above 4,500 m) and emergency evacuation cover.
- -Personal trekking gear - boots, sleeping bag, clothing layers (or hire these in Nanyuki).
- -Gratuities for guides and porters - customary and appreciated. We will provide guidance on appropriate amounts.
- -Personal expenses - beverages beyond water, personal medication, souvenirs.
Get an exact quote for your group
Costs vary by route, group size, and dates. Send us your details and we will build a personalised quote - usually within a few hours.