Mt. Kenya

The Mount Kenya National Park is one of the two places you’ll have to visit in Africa to see snow-capped peaks near the Equator.

Mount Kenya, the second-highest mountain in Africa, is at the heart of Mount Kenya National Park. This ancient extinct volcano straddles the Equator and boasts equatorial snow on its two highest peaks: Nelion (5188m) and Batian (5199m).

Rare equatorial snow aside, Mount Kenya has an impressive ecosystem, contributing to its recognition as a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1997.

Its ecosystem comprises a diverse equatorial mountain climate that supports various habitats and vegetation zones. It includes alpine vegetation, dense forest cover, bamboo forests, glaciers, moorland, wilderness, and lakes.

Thanks to its diverse ecosystem, the mountain is home to a wide selection of wildlife. Here, you’ll catch sight of elephants, buffalos, leopards, colobus monkeys, leopards, hyenas, and the black rhino.

The olive pigeon, Meyer’s parrot, and mountain buzzard are some of the over 130 bird species you can watch in Mount Kenya National park. The unique nature around Mount Kenya is also home to rare animals such as the Albino zebra and Sunni buck.

The variety at Mount Kenya is not limited to the habitats and wildlife species; it also extends to the activities you can enjoy. Your options include mountain climbing, game drives, hiking, camping, and trekking.

There are also many fascinating caves to see, so you’re bound to be pleasantly occupied on your visit here.

Another perk of visiting Mount Kenya is that you’ll get to vacation right on the Equator, at the Fairmont rooms that were built strategically on the line.

The Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club has been recognized as the leading hotel in Africa by the World Travel Awards several times, so you’ll get to enjoy world-class services while experiencing life on the Equator.