Mt Kenya University Hostels - Menengai Crater

Mt Kenya University Hostels is a guesthouse near Menengai Crater.

Location
Menengai Crater, Rift Valley Lakes, Kenya, East Africa
Coordinates
-0.290453, 36.066930
Elevation
1,833m
Activities
guesthouse

PlnrScore: 37/100

Nearest airstrip: Nakuru Airport Lanet Barraks (10 km) [HKNK]

Wildlife Near This Lodge

599 species observed within 20 km, 46 mammals, 354 birds.

  • Great White Pelican (Aves, 390 observations)
  • Olive Baboon (Mammalia, 364 observations)
  • Impala (Mammalia, 300 observations)
  • African Buffalo (Mammalia, 269 observations)
  • White Rhinoceros (Mammalia, 265 observations)
  • Plains Zebra (Mammalia, 235 observations)
  • Marabou Stork (Aves, 232 observations)
  • Augur Buzzard (Aves, 225 observations)
  • Northern Giraffe (Mammalia, 221 observations)
  • African Fish-Eagle (Aves, 213 observations)

Monthly Climate

MonthHighLowRain
Jan25.6C13.9C57.8mm
Feb27.3C14.4C28.5mm
Mar27.5C14.8C64mm
Apr25C14.8C159.2mm
May24.2C14.2C93.5mm
Jun23.9C13.5C25mm
Jul23.3C13.2C56.5mm
Aug23.7C13.1C55.1mm
Sep24.5C13.4C74.2mm
Oct25.3C14C57.6mm
Nov24.1C14.3C122.5mm
Dec25.2C13.8C40.5mm

Best Time to Visit Mt Kenya University Hostels

The best months to visit Mt Kenya University Hostels are February, March, June, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 17.35°C, rainfall 53.3mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 62.2%
  • February: Great, temperature 18.46°C, rainfall 28.1mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 57.2%
  • March: Great, temperature 18.65°C, rainfall 60.5mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 59.9%
  • April: Poor, temperature 17.34°C, rainfall 209.6mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 74%
  • May: Good, temperature 16.95°C, rainfall 138.4mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 74.6%
  • June: Great, temperature 16.6°C, rainfall 41.4mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 68.4%
  • July: Good, temperature 16.13°C, rainfall 99.5mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 69.8%
  • August: Good, temperature 16.14°C, rainfall 109.6mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 71.2%
  • September: Good, temperature 16.64°C, rainfall 125.1mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 70.3%
  • October: Good, temperature 17.14°C, rainfall 103.8mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 69.5%
  • November: Good, temperature 16.47°C, rainfall 166.8mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 74.7%
  • December: Great, temperature 17.08°C, rainfall 39.5mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 65.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to get to Mt Kenya University Hostels from Nairobi, and what should we expect on the journey?

We recommend taking a matatu or a private taxi from Nairobi to Nakuru town. From Nakuru, it's a short, bumpy ride to the hostels near Menengai Crater. The journey itself offers glimpses of Kenyan life, but be prepared for potentially crowded matatus and variable road conditions.

Beyond visiting Menengai Crater, what other activities are there to do from Mt Kenya University Hostels?

While Menengai Crater is the star attraction, we love exploring the local markets in Nakuru for authentic crafts and flavors. The lodge itself is a peaceful base for relaxing, reading, and enjoying the quiet surroundings. For the more adventurous, we've heard good things about guided walks in the nearby hills, though these aren't as developed as traditional safari activities.

What kind of wildlife can we realistically expect to see around Mt Kenya University Hostels, given its proximity to Menengai Crater?

Don't expect the Big Five here. Wildlife sightings are more subtle; we've spotted various bird species, including some impressive raptors soaring over the crater. You might also see smaller mammals like hyrax or baboons on the crater rim. It's more about the dramatic landscape than abundant game drives.

What are the typical costs associated with staying at Mt Kenya University Hostels, and are there any hidden fees we should be aware of?

We found the rates at Mt Kenya University Hostels to be very reasonable, especially considering the unique location. It's best to inquire directly about current pricing for rooms and any meals offered. We haven't encountered significant hidden fees, but always confirm what's included in your booking.

Is Mt Kenya University Hostels a safe place to stay, especially for solo travelers or those unfamiliar with Kenya?

We felt quite secure during our stay at Mt Kenya University Hostels. The staff are attentive, and the atmosphere is generally peaceful. As with any travel, we advise exercising standard precautions, keeping valuables secure, and being aware of your surroundings, particularly when venturing out to the crater rim.

Other Safari Lodges in Menengai Crater

Parks in Rift Valley Lakes

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Kenya

Travel advisory for Kenya