Overview

Embark on an exhilarating 6-day Mount Kenya trek via the Sirimon-Chogoria route, the most scenic and diverse route to conquer Kenya’s highest peaks, including Point Lenana (4,985m). This adventure takes you through breathtaking landscapes—lush rainforests, alpine meadows, rocky ridges, and dramatic valleys—offering stunning views of glaciers, mountain lakes, and diverse wildlife. This route is ideal for trekkers seeking both challenge and beauty.

The Sirimon-Chogoria route offers a perfect balance of gradual ascent and steep descent, maximizing acclimatization while showcasing Mount Kenya’s spectacular scenery. The journey starts through Sirimon Gate’s ancient forests, ascending to alpine moorlands and rugged terrain. After summiting Point Lenana, the descent via Chogoria reveals breathtaking gorges, waterfalls, and the pristine Lake Michaelson. This route is less crowded, providing a serene, unforgettable trekking experience.

Trip Highlights

Summit Point Lenana (4,985m): Reach the third-highest peak in Africa.
Diverse Landscapes: Experience forests, moorlands, glaciers, and alpine deserts.
Breathtaking Views: Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Kenya’s peaks and the Great Rift Valley.
Wildlife Encounters: Spot unique alpine flora and wildlife such as buffaloes, zebras, and mountain antelopes.
Less Crowded Route: A peaceful adventure away from the busy trails.

Day 01 :

Nairobi – Sirimon Gate (2,650m) – Old Moses Camp (3,300m)

After breakfast in Nairobi, we’ll drive to Sirimon Gate via Nanyuki, enjoying views of the Kenyan countryside. Upon arrival, you’ll complete park formalities before starting the trek through dense forests filled with cedar and podo trees. The trail gradually ascends through bamboo and heather zones, where you may spot wildlife like buffaloes and antelopes. We’ll reach Old Moses Camp for dinner and an overnight stay.

Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 9 km
Altitude Gain: 650m

Day 02 :

Old Moses Camp (3,300m) – Shipton’s Camp (4,200m)

Today’s hike leads through expansive moorlands along the Mackinder’s Valley, surrounded by giant lobelias and senecios. The trail offers magnificent views of Mount Kenya’s snow-capped peaks as you ascend steadily. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including hyraxes and mountain antelopes. By late afternoon, we’ll reach Shipton’s Camp, nestled below towering peaks like Batian and Nelion.

Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Distance: 14 km
Altitude Gain: 900m

Day 03 :

Acclimatization Day at Shipton’s Camp (4,200m)

Acclimatization is key for summit success. Today, we’ll take a light hike to higher altitudes, possibly to Kami Hut or Hausberg Col (4,600m), then return to Shipton’s Camp. This helps your body adjust to the altitude while offering stunning views of Mount Kenya’s rugged peaks and glaciers. Spend the afternoon resting, hydrating, and preparing for the summit.

Day 04 :

Shipton’s Camp – Point Lenana (4,985m) – Mintos Hut (4,300m)

Summit day begins around 2:00 AM to catch the sunrise from Point Lenana. The trail is steep, rocky, and challenging, passing Harris Tarn before the final push. Reaching the summit at dawn offers a spectacular sight—golden rays illuminating the peaks and glaciers, with distant views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days. After celebrating, we’ll descend via the Chogoria Route, stopping at Mintos Hut for a well-deserved rest.

Hiking Time: 10–12 hours
Distance: 18 km
Altitude Gain: 785m (ascent), 685m (descent)

Day 05 :

Mintos Hut (4,300m) – Meru Bandas (3,000m)

After breakfast, we’ll continue descending through the stunning Gorges Valley, passing beautiful rock formations, alpine meadows, and turquoise mountain lakes, including Lake Michaelson. The trail offers breathtaking views of waterfalls and lush valleys below. We’ll arrive at the comfortable Meru Bandas, where you can relax and enjoy a warm meal surrounded by pristine nature.

Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Distance: 20 km
Altitude Loss: 1,300m

Day 06 :

Meru Bandas (3,000m) – Chogoria Gate (2,850m) – Nairobi

On the final day, we’ll trek through the lower forest zone, rich with bamboo and indigenous trees. The descent is gentle, with occasional wildlife sightings like colobus monkeys and buffaloes. Upon reaching Chogoria Gate, we’ll meet our transfer vehicle for the scenic drive back to Nairobi, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure on Mount Kenya.

Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 10 km