- Overview
- Trip Outline
- Trip Includes
- Trip Excludes
- Gallery
- Reviews
- FAQ
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.
The Sirimon Route is one of the most popular routes for climbing Mount Kenya, offering stunning sceneries and a relatively gradual ascent. This itinerary allows for gradual acclimatization, which is essential for avoiding altitude sickness and maximize the chances for summit trek success possibilities.
Please note that, upon arrival at the Nairobi International Airport:
- A transfer from the airport can be arranged for an extra cost.
- Accommodation before and after the tour can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1: Nairobi to Nanyuki
- Drive from Nairobi to Nanyuki, the starting point for the Sirimon Route.
- Check into a hotel or guesthouse in Nanyuki to acclimatize and prepare for the trek.
- Meet with your trekking guide and go over the details of the trek.
Day 2: Nanyuki to Old Moses Camp (Judmaier Camp)
- After breakfast, transfer to the Sirimon Park Gate (2,650 meters) for registration.
- Begin the trek through the rainforest, and eventually reach Old Moses Camp (3,300 meters) for the night.
- The hike takes about 3-4 hours.
Day 3: Old Moses Camp to Shipton Camp
- Continue your trek through the Mackinder's Valley, which offers stunning views of the moorland.
- Arrive at Shipton Camp (4,200 meters), where you'll spend the night.
- The hike takes approximately 6-7 hours.
Day 4: Acclimatization and Exploration
- Spend the day at Shipton Camp for acclimatization and to explore the surroundings.
- You can take short hikes to various nearby attractions, such as Shipton's Cave or the Kami Hut, to gain altitude and adjust to the thinner air.
- Rest and hydrate to prepare for the summit attempt.
Day 5: Summit Day (Point Lenana) and Descend to Old Moses Camp
- Wake up very early (around 2-3 a.m.) to start the summit attempt.
- Hike to Point Lenana (4,985 meters), the third-highest peak of Mount Kenya.
- Witness a spectacular sunrise from the summit.
- Descend back to Shipton Camp for breakfast and rest.
- Continue the descent to Old Moses Camp for the night.
Day 6: Old Moses Camp to Sirimon Park Gate and Return to Nairobi
- Descend through the rainforest to the Sirimon Park Gate.
- Sign out with the park authorities.
- Drive back to Nanyuki and then to Nairobi, where you can end your trekking adventure.
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.
There are no reviews yet.