At 5,199m, Mount Kenya is the second-highest peak in Africa. It is an ancient extinct volcano, which during its period of activity (3.1 – 2.6 million years ago), is thought to have risen to 6,500m. There are 12 remnant glaciers on the mountain, all receding rapidly, and 4 secondary peaks that sit at the head of the U-shaped glacial valleys. With its rugged glacier-clad summits and forested middle slopes, Mount Kenya is one of the most impressive landscapes in East Africa.
5-Day Mt Kenya up Sirmon down Chogoria
Day by Day Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Nairobi – Sirimon Gate – Old Moses Camp
After pick-up in Nairobi, we drive to Nanyuki town with shared transport, arriving in time for lunch. We cross the equator en-route to the Sirimon park gate (2,660m). From the gate, we trek up through the magnificent montane forest, bamboo, and giant heather zone before reaching the high-altitude moorland and our first hut (Old Moses Camp at 3,300m) for dinner and overnight. This is a gentle trek that takes 3 – 4 hours, gaining an elevation of 680m.
Day 2
Old Moses – Shipton Camp
After breakfast, we follow the track uphill, forking right at the junction. After a water break, you continue on the track crossing the Ontulili River before turning right, contouring through the moorland, and crossing Liki North River. Continue uphill to Mackinders Valley from where there are panoramic views up the valley toward Shipton Camp. This camp is in a surreal setting below the towering peaks and glaciers. The resident animal population here includes rock hyrax and sunbirds.
Day 3
Shipton Camp – Acclimatization Day
For better acclimatization, you can take a rest day at Shipton Camp. Short walks or day hikes are possible on the summit climb to Oblong and Hausberg tarns, gaining an elevation of 370m before returning to the camp for lunch. The afternoon is at leisure.
Day 4
Shipton – Point Lenana
We start at 3 am to reach point Lenana in time for the African sunrise. The climb starts on frozen scree and continues on a rocky track with some very minor scrambling. On a clear night, you barely need a torch. The pollution-free sky reflects on the ground, giving you a view of the stars more beautiful than almost anywhere else on earth.
The climb takes 3 – 4 hours. To add to the exhilaration, Mount Kilimanjaro is also visible from the horizon. Descend to Minto’s Hut for a full breakfast. After a short rest, descend further to the Chogoria Gate campsite along the Gorges Valley where you can enjoy good views of the temple, Lake Michaelson, mushroom rocks, and Giants Billiards Table. Dinner and overnight will be at the Chogoria Gate campsite.
Please note: Climbing high and sleeping low is excellent for acclimatization, but you can do that almost as well toughing in the sun watching the eagles!
Day 5
Meru Bandas – Chogoria town
After breakfast, we descend on a broad track through a bamboo and virgin rainforest to meet the vehicle for our transfer to Chogoria town. We arrive in Nairobi at around 17h00
Tour Inclusions
Park fees
All activities
All accommodation
A professional driver/guide
All transportation
All Taxes/VAT
Roundtrip airport transfer
Meals
Tour Exclusions
International flights
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips
Personal items
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Drinks
