Many mountain enthusiasts believe that climbing Mount Kenya is the most fulfilling experience, even though Mount Kilimanjaro, which is nearby in Tanzania, usually garners the most of attention. At 5,199 metres above sea level, Mount Kenya is the second-highest peak in Africa and, like Kilimanjaro, is a dormant volcano that dates back millions of years. The mountain gives the country of Kenya its name, yet there is still significant disagreement over the peak’s etymology. Some people think the term comes from Kikuyu phrases that translate to “God’s resting place,” while others think it was the result of miscommunication between an early European explorer and his African guide. In any case, climbing Mount Kenya will probably rank among your life’s greatest experiences.

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