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Trekking in East Africa

The unique volcanic landscape that can be found in East Africa is projecting it to become one of the world’s most attractive trekking destinations.  Annually, nearly 50,000 trekkers visit the region in search of pristine beauty and thrilling landscapes.

Mt. Kilimanjaro is the East Africa's main attraction.  Reaching 19,341 feet, she is not only the highest point in Africa, but also the highest mountain that can be summited with no technical training or equipment.  The six official routes provide a wide variety of scenery and difficulty levels.  Certain routes and seasons can be rather crowded, so it is important to do plenty of research prior to making travel plans.

Mt. Kenya is the second highest and second most climbed mountain in East Africa.  Mt. Kenya is a much different mountain which contains nearly 40 peaks, most of which require rock climbing equipment and experience.  Nelion (17,021 feet) and Batian (17,057 feet) are the preferred peaks for extreme climbers.  Point Lenana (16,355 feet) is the highest peak that can be reached without any technical equipment or skills.  Mt. Kenya is also known for several good ice routes, particularly Diamond Couloir and the Ice Widow route.  However, in recent years the changing climate has produced unfavorable conditions for most of the ice routes.

Mt. Meru is located about 45 miles to the West of Mt. Kilimanjaro.  At 14,977 feet, Socialist Peak provides trekkers with a magnificent pre-acclimatization trek for Kilimanjaro.  The trek requires no technical equipment or skill, however offers a more challenging and scenic assent than her neighbor.

Rwenzori Mountains where the last of East Africa's mounains to be explored by Westerners.  The range has 20 peaks that exceed 15,000 feet.  Trekking here is more demanding that Mt. Kilimanjaro or Mt. Kenya.  Heavy rains, deep mud and thick vegitation give one a true sense of the African mounain wilderness.

Mt. Elgon was once probably higher than Kilimanjaro and currently has the largest surgace area of any extinct volcano in the world.  It's highest point, Wagagai reaches 14,176 feet, which then gives way to the world's second largest intact caldera.  Located on the border between Kenya and Uganda, the Mountain can be climed from either side.

Mt. Muhavura, Mt. Gahinga & Mt. Sabinyo

Ol Doinyo Lengai

Recommended

Lonely Planet’s guide to trekking in East Africa.  With 27 detailed treks, the guide is a must have when planning your Trek in East Africa.

Our favorite Kilimanjaro Map with detailed topographical information, trekking routes, flora and fauna information, GPS coordonates, and plenty of added bonuses.

There is no better way to get to know a culture than by speaking the language.  Learn some basics Swahili before you travel.

Birds of East Africa is the first comprehensive field guide to this spectacular birding region,  describing and illustrating a remarkable 1,388 species.