South Face Direct is a classic and serious alpine route on Batian, one of the best-known harder lines on Mount Kenya. It is significantly more committing than the normal route and involves steep, exposed climbing on rock with possible mixed conditions. The route is valued for its directness and mountain atmosphere. Objective hazards include loose rock, weather, and the difficulty of retreat once high on the face. It is a documented route in established Mount Kenya climbing literature. The exact technical character can vary with conditions, but it is generally considered a demanding alpine rock climb.