Overview
Experience Mount Kenya from two different sides on this challenging 4-day, 3-night trek from Chogoria to Sirimon. The journey begins on the scenic eastern side, passing through high-altitude forests, Lake Ellis and the dramatic Gorges Valley before climbing to Point Lenana (4,985 m) for sunrise. After the summit, descend through the Mackinder Valley and finish via the Sirimon route. The trek combines spectacular alpine scenery, giant heathers and lobelias, rocky landscapes and panoramic views of Mount Kenya’s iconic peaks.
Itinerary
Depart Nairobi in the morning and drive towards Chogoria, passing through the agricultural highlands of central Kenya. After lunch in Chogoria, continue by 4x4 towards the Mount Kenya forest and Chogoria trailhead. Begin your trek through bamboo and montane forest before entering the higher moorland zone. The trail continues towards Lake Ellis, with beautiful views of Mugi Hill, Ithanguni and the Giant's Billiards Table. Arrive at the campsite in the afternoon and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the lake before dinner and overnight.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, begin the challenging climb towards the upper mountain. The trail rises gradually through the moorland, with spectacular views across the eastern slopes and towards the dramatic Gorges Valley. Continue past distinctive Mount Kenya landscapes, including towering rock formations and alpine vegetation, before reaching the high-altitude area around Mintos Camp. This is a demanding day, so the pace is kept steady to allow the body to adjust to the increasing altitude. Arrive at camp in the afternoon, have dinner and rest early in preparation for the pre-dawn summit attempt.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Wake up around 3:00 AM and begin the final ascent towards Point Lenana. Trek through the dark upper alpine zone as you climb over rocky and scree-covered terrain towards the summit. Reach Point Lenana at 4,985 m around sunrise, where you can enjoy panoramic views across the Kenyan landscape and the surrounding Mount Kenya peaks. After spending time at the summit, descend towards Shipton's Camp, where you stop for breakfast and a short rest. Continue down through the Mackinder Valley, crossing the high-altitude moorlands and gradually descending towards the Sirimon side of the mountain. Continue to Old Moses Camp for dinner and overnight. This is the longest and most demanding day of the trek.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, begin your final descent from Old Moses through the beautiful montane forest towards Sirimon Gate. The trail gradually loses altitude as the high-altitude vegetation gives way to forest. On reaching the gate, meet your transfer vehicle and drive towards Nanyuki for lunch before continuing to Nairobi. Arrive in Nairobi in the late afternoon, marking the end of your Mount Kenya adventure.
Meals: Breakfast
Cost Includes
- Transport from Nairobi and back
- Mount Kenya National Park entry fees
- Services of an experienced mountain guide
- Porters
- Cook
- Accommodation/camping during the trek
- Meals as indicated
- Camping equipment
- Drinking water during the trek
- Summit attempt to Point Lenana
- Transfers between trailheads
Cost Excludes
- Personal hiking equipment
- Sleeping bag
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides, cooks and porters
- Personal expenses
- Items not specifically mentioned under inclusions
