At 5799m high, it is Africa's second highest mountain, with gleaming and eroded snow-capped peaks, which can be seen for miles. It is a broad, large symmetrical volcano cone whose diameter at the base is about 12 km, dating between 2 to 3 million years ago. There are three peaks; Mbatian, , Nelion and point Lenana. The magnificent views over the surrounding country from point Lenana and other high points around the main peaks and trekking on this mountain is a priority among tourists. The forest surrounding the mountain support a large variety of wildlife such as elephant, buffalo, monkey, antelope, lion, zebra, eland, rock hyrax, giant forest hogs, leopard and various species of birds such as eagle, vulture, and sunbird among others.

Large numbers of raptors can be seen either in the trees or circling overhead. Bronze-naped and green pigeons come down to the waterhole and take advantage of the natural salt-lick. On the mammal front this is an excellent place to see Giant Forest Hogs and Bushbuck while if you are very lucky the shy and nervous Suni can also be spotted. Added to this there are a number of families of Elephant which regularly pass through the clearing. It is interesting to note that these "forest" elephants are markedly different to those seen on the open plains, having smaller ears and straighter tusks.

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