MOUNT KENYA SIRIMON CHOGORIA ROUTE OVERVIEW
Embark on one of Mount Kenya’s most scenic and rewarding trekking adventures—ascending through the lush and wildlife-rich Sirimon Route and descending via the dramatic and picturesque Chogoria Route. This 5-day trek combines the best of both worlds: the quiet forest and moorland trails of Sirimon with the breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and glacial valleys of Chogoria.
Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers, this route offers a gradual acclimatization, stunning alpine scenery, and the ultimate reward—reaching Point Lenana (4,985m), the third highest peak of Mount Kenya.
Along the way, trekkers enjoy spectacular views of towering peaks, sparkling tarns, and rugged cliffs. The trek concludes with a scenic descent through the Gorges Valley and bamboo forest—a fitting finale to this unforgettable mountain experience.
Best Season: January–March & July–October.
- Route: Sirimon–Chogoria Traverse.
- Starting Point: Sirimon Gate (2,650 m).
- Summit Point: Point Lenana (4,985 m).
- Ending Point: Chogoria Gate (2,950 m).
- Difficulty: Moderate – ideal for fit trekkers.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
- Gentle & scenic ascent via Sirimon Route.
- Spectacular descent through Gorges Valley & Lake Michaelson.
- Sunrise summit at Point Lenana (4,985 m).
- Great acclimatization and diverse landscapes — forest, moorland, alpine zones.
- Ideal for trekkers seeking the best all-round Mount Kenya experience.
WHY CHOOSE SIRIMON CHOGORIA ROUTE
- Most scenic route on Mount Kenya.
- Views of Lake Ellis, Lake Michaelson, and Gorges Valley.
- Gradual ascent for perfect acclimatization.
- Summit sunrise at Point Lenana (4,985 m).
- Great balance of adventure, beauty, and comfort.
ITINERARY
Drive: Nairobi to Nanyuki (approx. 4–5 hours).
Start Point: Sirimon Park Gate (2,650 m).
Hike to: Old Moses Camp (3,300 m) – 3–4 hours.
Distance: 9 km.
Highlights: Gentle climb through montane forest and bamboo zones; possible sightings of colobus monkeys and buffalo.
Overnight: Old Moses Camp (huts or tents).
Meals: Lunch & Dinner.
Altitude: 3,300 m -4,200 m.
Distance: 14 km | 6–7 hours.
Highlights: Trek across the Ontulili and Liki Valleys, rich in giant lobelias and senecios; breathtaking alpine scenery.
Overnight: Shipton’s Camp – at the base of the main peaks (Batian, Nelion, Lenana).
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch & Dinner.
Start early (2:30–3:00 AM) for the summit attempt.
Summit: Point Lenana (4,985 m) at sunrise – panoramic views over the peaks and even Mt. Kilimanjaro on clear days.
Descend: Down the eastern side to Mintos Hut (4,200 m) on the Chogoria route.
Highlights: Stunning views of Gorges Valley, Temple Rocks, and the emerald-blue Lake Michaelson below.
Overnight: Mintos Hut or Hall Tarns Camp overlooking the valley.
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch & Dinner.
Distance:12 km | 5–6 hours.
Highlights: Gentle descent through the moorland; lunch near Lake Ellis; view of rolling hills and highland vegetation.
Overnight: Meru Bandas (3,000 m) – warm camp with huts and showers.
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch & Dinner.
Descent: 10 km walk (or drive) to Chogoria Gate (2,950 m).
Drive: Return to Nairobi, arriving in the evening.
Highlights: Walk through bamboo and forest zones, often spotting wildlife such as buffalo, monkeys, and bushbuck.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch.
This tour is customizable and can be tailored to your interests, budget, and travel dates for a personalized safari experience.
LOCATION MAP
INCLUDED & EXCLUDED
- Guarantee price/guarantee trek on confirmation.
- Transfer to and from the base of the mountain.
- Meal plan as detailed: B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner.
- Accommodations in camps/huts as per the itinerary.
- All Park entrance fees to include government taxes.
- Service of an English speaking professional guide, porters and skilled cook.
- On completion, successful climb certificate.
- Oxygen cylinder and first aid kit for emergencies.
- Treated water on the trek.
- Rescue fees.
- Start and finish Nairobi.
- International flights & Visas.
- Tips & Gratitudes.
- Any Other Service Not Mentioned.
- Items of personal nature.
- Snacks,Alcoholic & soft drinks.
- Travel and medical insurance.
- Personal climbing gear (sleeping bag, hiking boots, clothing, poles, etc.)
- Any other extras not detailed in the above itinerary.
ACCOMMODATION
- Old Moses Camp.
- Shipton’s Camp.
- Mintos Hut / Hall Tarns.
- Meru Bandas.
WHAT TO BRING
- Warm clothing (temperatures drop below freezing).
- Waterproof boots & gaiters (for the bog section).
- Good hiking boots.
- Trekking poles.
- Sleeping bag.
- Waterprof jacket & trousers.
- Headlamp, sunglasses,sunscreen,hat.
- Refillable water bottle.
- Warm layers & thermal wear.