Few mountains in the world give such quick access to high altitudes as Mount Kenya. Altitude sickness is very common, and as many as 25% of people attempting Lenana on a brief visit fail for this reason. Fitness is no help, indeed it can even be a handicap as the fittest tend to push on ignoring the first symptoms until they get a very bad dose. A sensible approach to acclimatization can help a great deal. For visitors to the country it is wise to visit the mountain after a spell in some of higher parts of Kenya and not direct from sea level. A day spent exploring the forests and heath around the road heads can make a big difference as well as being worthwhile in its own right.