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Mount Kenya is the second-highest mountain in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro the great, and it offers a diverse range of landscapes, from lush rainforests to high-altitude moorlands and rugged alpine terrains. A 5 days – 4 nights Mount Kenya trek is a fantastic adventure for those seeking to explore one of East Africa's highest peaks.
A trek to Mount Kenya via the Sirimon Route typically takes around 4 to 6 days, depending on your pace and acclimatization needs. The Sirimon Route is one of the most popular routes for climbing Mount Kenya, offering stunning scenery and a relatively gradual ascent.
Day 1: Nanyuki to Old Moses Camp (3,300 meters)
- Start at the Sirimon Gate (2,650 meters) and hike to Old Moses Camp.
- Distance: Approximately 9-10 kilometers.
- Time: 3-4 hours of hiking.
- Altitude gain: 650 meters.
Day 2: Old Moses Camp to Shipton's Camp (4,200 meters)
- Continue your ascent through the beautiful moorland and heather zones.
- Distance: Approximately 14-15 kilometers.
- Time: 6-7 hours of hiking.
- Altitude gain: 900 meters.
Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Shipton's Camp
- Spend a day at Shipton's Camp to acclimatize to the higher altitude.
- You can explore the area around the camp or take short hikes to nearby viewpoints.
Day 4: Shipton's Camp to Point Lenana (4,985 meters) and back to Shipton's Camp
- Begin the early morning summit attempt to Point Lenana, the third-highest peak on Mount Kenya.
- Reach Point Lenana in time for sunrise if possible.
- Descend back to Shipton's Camp for the night.
- Distance: Approximately 13-14 kilometers (round trip).
- Time: About 7-8 hours to summit and return.
Day 5: Shipton's Camp to Sirimon Gate
- Descend back to the Sirimon Gate to complete the trek.
- Distance: Approximately 15-16 kilometers.
- Time: 5-6 hours of hiking.
- Altitude loss: 1,350 meters.
What is included
- Porterage
- Park fees (For non-residents)
- All activities (Unless labelled as optional)
- All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (Unless labelled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
- Drinks (As specified in the day-by-day section)
What is not included
- Rescue fee
- Climbing gear
- International flights (From/to home)
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips (Tipping guideline US$12.00 pp per day)
- Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
• Sirimon Route: Approaches from the northwest and is known for its scenic views and gradual ascent. Ideal for acclimatization.
• Chogoria Route: The most scenic route, with waterfalls, beautiful valleys, and stunning views. Often used for descent for a more diverse experience.
• Naro Moru Route: The fastest but steepest route. Known for its "Vertical Bog" and used by climbers aiming for a quicker ascent.
• Moderate to Challenging: The trek requires good fitness due to steep sections and high altitude, especially if attempting to summit Point Lenana (4,985 meters). However, you don’t need technical climbing skills unless summiting Batian or Nelion (the technical peaks).
• January to March and July to October are considered the best trekking seasons, with more stable weather. The rainy seasons (April to June and November) can make trails challenging and slippery.
• Most itineraries range from 4 to 7 days. The most popular itinerary is a 5-day trek, which allows for adequate acclimatization and a leisurely pace.
• Altitude sickness can affect anyone, especially above 3,000 meters. Routes like Sirimon are better for gradual acclimatization. It’s recommended to ascend slowly, stay hydrated, and watch for symptoms.
• Daytime temperatures vary between 10-20°C (50-68°F), but it can drop to -10°C (14°F) or lower at night. The mountain weather is unpredictable, so rain and snow are possible year-round.
• While it's possible to trek independently, it’s recommended to hire a guide and porter for safety, logistics, and support. This also supports local tourism.
• You’ll need warm clothing, waterproofs, good hiking boots, a sleeping bag (rated for cold temperatures), trekking poles, and a daypack. Some items may be rented in Kenya, but bringing your own ensures quality and comfort.
• You might encounter buffalo, monkeys, hyrax, eagles, and other highland species. While sightings of large animals are rare near the higher camps, the lower sections have more wildlife.
• Costs vary, but a 5-day guided trek usually ranges from $600 to $1,200 per person, depending on the services included (guide, porters, park fees, accommodations, and meals).
• Yes, several huts and campsites are available on each route. Huts like Mackinder's, Shipton's, and Austrian Hut are popular. Camping is also possible.
• Yes, an entrance fee is required for Mount Kenya National Park. Check with local authorities or your tour provider for the latest rates and regulations.
• While challenging, Mount Kenya’s Point Lenana can be tackled by fit beginners who take time to acclimatize and are well-prepared physically.
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