On the drive from Nairobi to Mt Kenya

Getting up to the start of the climbs requires some serious 4x4 action

We had to put chains on all 4 wheels to deal with the mud

Often we had to walk so the truck could get up the hill

Water Buffalo are common throughout the Mt Kenya area

Eventually we are above the jungle at over 3,000 meters

The rules are very clear about after-dark travel

Our first high camp at Minto Lakes with excellent views of Mt Kenya

Hiking through lakes and grasslands at 4,200 meters

Mt Kenya has far more varied scenery then Kili, with numerous crystal clear lakes and waterfalls

Mt Kenya at sunrise from our high camp at 4,600 meters

Ascending Point Lenana after a snow storm

Point Lenana summit with Nelion in the background

The route up Nelion to the top (red line). Batian is hidden in clouds to the left

The approach to Nelion on a fine morning

Starting up from the base of the NE face of Nelion

A few pitches up on Nelion with great views unfolding below

Still some snow in the shaded areas

Most of the climbing is on very clean and solid moderate rock

Approaching Baillies Bivy

Part way up the route is the remnants of Baillies Bivy, a small emergency shelter

More snow on the south side of the ridge

Classic crack climbing high on the route

A climber follows one of the crux pitches

At the top of Nelion is a sturdy 4-person shelter

Climbing through the Gates of The Mist between Nelion and Batian

The final pitches up to Batian with the Diamond Glacier below

Afternoon snowstorm on the descent

Preparing for a rappel in the snow and fog

Looking across to Point Lenana and the Lewis Glacier after a snowstorm

The lower Lewis Glacier and a tarn

Drying out in the welcome sun after the storm

Descending to MacKinders Hut on the way out the Naru Moru river

MacKinders Hut

At the trailhead waiting to be picked up

Mt Kenya Park headquarters