Mount Kenya is Africa’s highest mountain after Mount Kilimanjaro. The park lies at an altitude of about 3,400m – 5,200m above sea level. It offers excellent game viewing, mountain climbing and breath taking scenery that includes glaciers, tarns and peaks. Part of the mountain’s attractions is the variation in flora and fauna found at different altitudes. Dry upland forest covers the lower slopes while true mountain forest begins at an altitude of 2,000m and comprises of cedar, meru oak and podo trees. A belt of bamboo forest that merges with smaller trees, interspersed with glades begins at an altitude of 2,500m above sea level. The forest is home to a variety of animals and rare plant species. The wildlife in the sanctuary includes colobus monkeys, sykes, bushbucks, buffaloes, elephants, olive baboons, waterbucks, leopards, giant forest hogs, genet cats, hyenas and the elusive bongo. One outstanding establishment outside the park is the renown mount Kenya Safari club whose attractions include a game breeding ranch and the William Holden nature centre.
