July 2023

mount kenya panorama

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Point Lenana

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Point Lenana is the third highest peak of Mount Kenya, the second highest mountain in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro. Standing at an elevation of 4,985 meters (16,355 feet), it is popular among mountaineers due to its accessibility. Unlike Batian and Nelion, the two highest peaks, Point Lenana does not require technical climbing skills and is often reached by hikers. The trek to this peak provides an immersive experience of the diverse ecosystems of Mount Kenya, including bamboo forests, high-altitude moorlands, and finally, the alpine zone. With its relatively moderate climb and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, Point Lenana is a favored destination for those looking to experience the magnificence of East Africa’s mountainous terrain.

Lilac-Breasted Roller (Coracias caudatus)

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Lilac-Breasted Roller (Coracias caudatus)

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The Lilac-Breasted Roller, scientifically known as Coracias caudatus, is one of the most vibrant and colorful birds found across the Sub-Saharan Africa and the southern Arabian Peninsula. This avian species is most well-known for its breathtaking plumage, showcasing a dazzling array of colors. It has a lilac-colored breast, as its name suggests, along with a turquoise belly and wings that display hues of blue, green, and brown. The long tail feathers, often with black, blue and white tips, add an extra dash of elegance to its appearance. The Lilac-Breasted Roller feeds on a diet of insects, small birds, rodents, and occasionally reptiles. Despite its stunning appearance, it’s a fierce defender of its territory, and is known to be unafraid of diving towards larger predators when threatened. These birds also exhibit a unique flying pattern during their mating rituals, involving fast, shallow dives from considerable heights, which gave them their ‘roller’ moniker. The Lilac-Breasted Roller, with its striking beauty and distinct behaviours, is indeed a spectacle of the African wilderness.

Mount Kenya on a clear morning

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How to climb Mount Kenya

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Mount Kenya, the second-highest mountain in Africa, is a popular destination for mountaineers. The mountain features several routes that vary in difficulty, including the Sirimon route, the Naro Moru route, and the Chogoria route. Here is a general overview of how to climb Mount Kenya:

Like any mountain climbing expedition, climbing Mount Kenya requires careful preparation. You’ll need appropriate clothing and gear, such as hiking boots, warm clothing, rain gear, hats, gloves, and sunglasses. Other essentials include a good quality backpack, sleeping bag, headlamp, and hiking poles. Also, remember to bring enough water and high-energy food. Check the weather forecast before you leave, and make sure you’re physically fit and properly acclimated to the high altitude.

The three main routes to climb Mount Kenya are Sirimon, Naro Moru, and Chogoria. Sirimon is the easiest and most gradual ascent, making it suitable for beginners. Naro Moru is the quickest route to Point Lenana but quite steep, making it more difficult. Chogoria is the most scenic route.

Acclimatization is key to a successful climb. Take your time and do not rush the ascent. The general rule is to “climb high, sleep low,” meaning you can ascend a higher altitude during the day and come back down to sleep. This helps your body get used to the lower levels of oxygen at higher altitudes. I hope that gives a quick view of what is needed to climb Mount Kenya.

Hornbill Kenya

The magnificent Hornbill

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Hornbills are an iconic species of bird found throughout Eastern Africa, including countries like Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Known for their distinctive large, curved beaks – often adorned with a casque, or hollow structure on top – hornbills play a significant role in the ecosystem as seed dispersers, assisting in the propagation of many tree species. In Eastern Africa, you may encounter various hornbill species including the Von der Decken’s Hornbill, the African Grey Hornbill, and the majestic Ground Hornbill. Each species displays unique characteristics; for instance, the Von der Decken’s Hornbill is smaller and has a red bill, while the Ground Hornbill is larger with striking red facial markings. These birds inhabit a range of environments from savannas and woodlands to rainforests, showcasing their adaptability. Hornbills have an intriguing breeding habit, where the female is sealed inside a tree cavity with her eggs, leaving only a small hole through which the male can feed her and the chicks. This unique behavior demonstrates the hornbills’ intricate life cycle and commitment to offspring survival. Indeed, the hornbills of Eastern Africa contribute to the region’s vibrant biodiversity and serve as a fascinating subject of study for birdwatchers and researchers alike.

River delta crocodiles

River delta crocodiles where saltwater meets freshwater

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Living in a river delta where saltwater meets freshwater, crocodiles demonstrate remarkable adaptability. The saltwater crocodile are examples of species that have adapted to thrive in such conditions. These environments often have a high concentration of saltwater, particularly in regions where the river opens into the sea. Crocodiles dwelling in these areas have developed physiological adaptations that enable them to regulate the salt content in their bodies. For instance, they possess specialized glands in their tongues that effectively excrete excess salt, allowing them to maintain their osmotic balance. The diversity of prey in these regions, ranging from fish and crustaceans to mammals, contributes to the sustenance and growth of these reptiles. Being in a dynamic environment like a delta, these crocodiles are often larger and more aggressive than their freshwater counterparts. Not only are they powerful predators, but they also play a critical role in maintaining the health and balance of the ecosystem. Their presence indicates a robust food web and a richly diverse habitat. Observing these magnificent creatures in their saltwater environments offers a compelling testament to the incredible resilience and adaptability of life.

crocodile mara

Raw and ruthless beauty of the Maasai Mara

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The Maasai Mara, a renowned nature reserve located in Kenya, serves as a natural habitat to the formidable Nile crocodile, one of the largest species of crocodiles in the world. These majestic creatures play a crucial role in the ecosystem, contributing to the delicate balance of predator and prey within the region. They are famously known for their presence along the Mara River, particularly during the annual Great Migration of wildebeests, zebras, and other herbivores between the Serengeti and the Maasai Mara. As the herds attempt to cross the treacherous river, the opportunistic crocodiles seize the chance to hunt, displaying their astounding power and deadly precision. Their large size is attributed to plentiful food availability, especially during the migration period, and the warm climate of the region that aids their growth. Visitors to the Maasai Mara have the unique opportunity to observe these impressive reptiles in their natural habitat, providing a glimpse into the raw and ruthless beauty of the animal kingdom.