Mount Kenya Ring Road
Kenya, africa
330 km
2,200 m
moderate
January to March, July to October
The Mount Kenya Ring Road is a roughly 330-kilometer circular route that encircles Africa's second-highest mountain (5,199 meters) through the fertile highlands of central Kenya. The road passes through a remarkable variety of landscapes: dense cedar and bamboo forests on the wetter southern slopes, tea and coffee estates in the Nyeri and Meru districts, semi-arid bushland on the drier northern slopes, and traditional Kikuyu, Embu, and Meru farmland throughout.
The route connects several towns including Nanyuki, Meru, Embu, and Nyeri, and offers numerous viewpoints of the mountain's glaciated peaks and dramatic rock spires. On clear mornings, particularly from the northern side near Nanyuki, the twin peaks of Batian and Nelion present one of the most impressive mountain vistas in Africa. The road also provides access to the various gates of Mount Kenya National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and to community conservancies where wildlife including elephants, buffalo, and even the rare bongo antelope can be found in the montane forest.
Where is it?
Mount Kenya Ring Road is located in Central Highlands, Kenya (africa). Coordinates: -0.1521, 37.3084
Driving Tips
Start from Nanyuki for the best morning mountain views. The northern and eastern sections have rougher road surfaces. Visit the Nanyuki equator line markers for a photo opportunity. Stop at a tea or coffee plantation for a tour. The Ol Pejeta Conservancy near Nanyuki is home to the last northern white rhinos. Carry warm layers as highland mornings can be chilly. Clear mountain views are best before 10 AM.
Road Surface
Mixed tarmac and gravel
Road Details
- Country
- Kenya
- Continent
- africa
- Region
- Central Highlands
- Length
- 330 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,200 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Surface
- Mixed tarmac and gravel
- Best Season
- January to March, July to October
- Coordinates
- -0.1521, 37.3084
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