Overview

Climbing Mount Kenya through Sirimon and descending via Chogoria combines the best scenery and comfortable hut accommodation.
It is a relatively gentle climb with enough challenge to keep it exciting.

The Sirimon route on the northwest side is dry and pleasant, featuring large trees and rocky landscapes.
The descent via Chogoria offers breathtaking scenery including waterfalls, tarns, wildlife, the Temple, and Lake Michaelson.

Why Choose This Trek?

• Best combination of scenic routes (Sirimon + Chogoria)
• Acclimatization day included for better summit success
• Summit Point Lenana (4,985m)
• Explore Lake Michaelson, Gorges Valley and waterfalls
• Stay in mountain huts for added comfort

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Nairobi – Sirimon Gate – Old Moses Camp (3,300m)

3–4 hrs | 9km | 680m ascent

Drive from Nairobi to Nanyuki town for lunch, then proceed to Sirimon Park Gate (2,660m).
Begin your trek through forest and bamboo before reaching moorland covered with heather.

Arrive at Old Moses Camp (3,300m) for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 2: Old Moses – Shipton Camp (4,200m)

7 hrs | 14km | 900m ascent

After breakfast, ascend uphill branching left at the junction. After about one hour,
reach Ontulili River where you rest and refill water bottles.

Continue through moorland, crossing Liki North into Mackinder’s Valley,
with stunning views of the main peaks.

Dinner and overnight at Shipton Camp (4,200m).

Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Shipton Camp

This day is dedicated to acclimatization. You will hike to Hausberg Tarns and climb Oblong Hill,
gaining approximately 370m in elevation.

Return to camp for lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing while enjoying spectacular views.

Day 4: Shipton – Point Lenana (4,985m) – Mt Kenya Bandas (2,900m)

11–12 hrs | 785m ascent | 2,085m descent

Begin your summit attempt at 3:00 AM, taking about 4 hours to reach Point Lenana in time for sunrise.
On clear mornings, you may see Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance.

After the summit, descend to Minto’s Hut for a full breakfast,
then continue through Gorges Valley with spectacular views of the Temple,
Lake Michaelson, Mushroom Rocks, and the Giant Billiards Table.

Dinner and overnight at Mt Kenya Bandas, where you enjoy the luxury of a hot shower and a warm log fire.

Day 5: Mt Kenya Bandas – Chogoria Town – Nairobi

10km descent

After breakfast, descend through bamboo and rainforest to meet your vehicle.
Transfer to Chogoria town and continue to Nairobi, arriving in the early evening.

Best Time to Trek

• January to March – Clear skies and excellent views
• June to October – Stable weather conditions

FAQs

Why is this trek better than 4 days?

The extra acclimatization day improves comfort and summit success.

Is this trek suitable for beginners?

Yes, with good fitness and proper guidance.

What is the highlight of the trek?

Summiting Point Lenana and descending through the scenic Chogoria route.