Conquer Point Lenana: Your 4-Day Mount Kenya Traverse Itinerary (From Sirimon to Chogoria)

This 4-day Mount Kenya traverse from Sirimoni Gate to Chogoria Gate offers a classic and dramatic journey across Africa’s second-highest peak. The adventure begins with an ascent through the heather-clad slopes of the Sirimon route, leading to a night at Shipton’s Camp beneath the towering spires of Batian and Nelion. The pre-dawn summit push rewards climbers with a breathtaking sunrise from Point Lenana (4,985m) before the route reveals its most spectacular scenery.

The descent via the Chogoria route is a highlight in itself, taking you through Mount Kenya’s most stunning landscapes. You’ll pass the otherworldly Gorges Valley and the stunning Lake Michaelson, descending through lush bamboo forests that starkly contrast the alpine desert of the summit day. This itinerary is expertly paced for acclimatization, maximizing scenic diversity while culminating in a challenging yet achievable summit victory.

Koki Safaris Ltd manages all logistics, from park fees and hut accommodations to meals prepared by our mountain chef and support from an experienced guide team. We ensure a safe, well-organized, and unforgettable trekking experience, allowing you to focus entirely on the majestic beauty of the mountain from its dry northern foothills to its verdant eastern slopes.

Arrival city
Nairobi
Accomodation
Fly tents and KWS forest camps
Tour type
Mountain Climbing
Best season
July-September, December-January
Departure city
Nairobi

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

This classic 4-day traverse of Mount Kenya with Koki Safaris Ltd delivers an unforgettable journey across diverse ecosystems, beginning with an ascent through the rocky heather moorland of the Sirimon route to a pre-dawn summit of Point Lenana (4,985m) for a spectacular sunrise, followed by a breathtaking descent through the iconic Gorges Valley and lush bamboo forests of the scenic Chogoria route, all while our expert team handles every logistical detail for a safe and immersive climbing experience.

Hihglights

Summit Success at Sunrise: Reach the trekker's peak, Point Lenana (4,985m), for a breathtaking sunrise over the African plains—the literal and emotional high point of the journey.
Spectacular Alpine Scenery: Witness Mount Kenya's dramatic landscapes, from the rocky Mackinder's Valley and unique giant lobelia plants to the awe-inspiring cliffs of the Gorges Valley and serene Lake Michaelson.
The Iconic Traverse: Experience the mountain's full diversity on the premier Sirimon-Chogoria route, ascending through dry moorland and descending through lush rainforest—two completely different worlds in one trip.
Optimal Acclimatization Pace: Our proven 4-day itinerary is expertly paced to maximize your chances of summit success while ensuring a rewarding and safe high-altitude experience.

Day 1 :

Nairobi to Old Moses Camp – Into the Moorland

Morning: Depart Nairobi, trading the city’s rhythm for the agricultural patchwork of the central highlands. Breathe the crisp air in Nanyuki, the mountain's gateway town, for a final preparation.
Afternoon: Register at the Sirimon Gate and begin your ascent. The trail climbs steadily through a fragrant montane forest, emerging onto open slopes where giant heathers stand sentinel in the mist.
Evening: Arrive at Old Moses Camp as the golden light paints the ridges. Settle into the hut, enjoy a warm, hearty meal, and feel the profound quiet of the high wilderness descend—your acclimatization has begun.

Day 2 :

Old Moses to Shipton’s Camp – Alpine Desert & Towering Peaks

Morning: Trek deeper into the mountain’s heart, ascending through the wide, sculpted valley of Liki North. The landscape transforms minute by minute into a true alpine desert.
Afternoon: Cross the dramatic Mackinder’s Valley, your path dwarfed by the sheer scale of the terrain. Here, the bizarre and beautiful forms of giant groundsel and lobelia plants dominate, a prelude to the grandeur ahead.
Evening: Arrive at Shipton’s Camp, your hut nestled directly beneath the awe-inspiring, glacier-carved peaks of Batian and Nelion. Their icy faces glow in the sunset—a silent, majestic promise of the challenge and reward to come.

Day 3 :

Shipton’s Camp to Point Lenana to Minto’s – The Summit & The Gorge

Pre-Dawn (2:30 AM): A gentle wake-up call. Step into the crystalline cold, your headlamp cutting a narrow beam in the vast darkness. Begin the silent, steady climb up loose scree and rock.
Sunrise: Reach Point Lenana (4,985m) as the first fiery light breaks the horizon. Stand on the roof of Kenya, watching the shadow of the peak stretch across the clouds below—a moment of pure, hard-earned triumph.
Morning: Descend carefully past the shimmering ice of the Lewis Glacier to Austrian Hut, then onwards to Minto’s Camp for a celebratory brunch and deep rest.
Afternoon: With newfound lightness, explore the edge of the Temple and gaze into the staggering depths of the Gorges Valley—a dizzying view into the mountain’s soul, reserved for those who summit.

Day 4 :

Minto’s Camp to Chogoria Gate – Descent Through Emerald Worlds

Morning: Begin the final, spectacular descent. Traverse the rim of the Gorges Valley, past the jewel-like Lake Michaelson, where the cliffs plunge into still, reflective waters.
Afternoon: Enter the whispering, enveloping green of the bamboo forest. The air grows thick and humid, a stark and beautiful contrast to the alpine desert of just a day before.
Evening: Emerge at Chogoria Gate, where your vehicle awaits. The journey back to Nairobi is a quiet one, filled with the deep satisfaction of having traversed a mountain, from its dry bones to its beating heart.

Inclusions/Exclusions

Inclusions

Park & Conservation Fees: All mandatory Mount Kenya National Park entry fees, camping/hut fees, and rescue fees.
Mountain Accommodation: Three nights' accommodation in designated mountain huts (Old Moses, Shipton’s, Minto’s) on a shared basis.
Professional Guide & Crew: Services of an experienced, certified English-speaking mountain guide, a skilled cook, and a team of porters to carry communal equipment. Their wages, food, and accommodation are covered.
All Meals on the Mountain: From lunch on Day 1 to lunch on Day 4. Nutritious, high-energy meals prepared by our cook, including hot breakfasts, packed picnic lunches, and hearty dinners.
Transportation: All transfers as per the itinerary, including private return transport from Nairobi to the Sirimon Gate on Day 1, and from Chogoria Gate back to Nairobi on Day 4.
Pre-Climb Support: A comprehensive pre-climb briefing in Nairobi and assistance with gear checks.
Safety & Logistics: Provision of treated drinking water on the mountain, basic first-aid kits, and emergency oxygen for high-altitude crises.
Porterage: Fair-weight porterage of shared climbing gear and food supplies.

Exclusions

International Flights & Visas: Airfare to/from Nairobi and Kenya entry visa fees.
Nairobi Accommodation: Hotel stays before or after the climb.
Personal Climbing Gear: Items such as sleeping bags, hiking boots, rain gear, daypacks, headlamps, and trekking poles (available for hire separately).
Beverages & Tips: Soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and personal bottled water beyond what is provided. Gratuities for your guide, cook, and porter team (tipping guidelines provided).
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive medical and evacuation insurance covering high-altitude trekking up to 5,000m is mandatory and must be arranged independently.
Meals Off the Mountain: Any meals taken in Nairobi outside of the itinerary or during road transfers.
Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, laundry, phone calls, and any costs incurred due to itinerary changes for personal reasons.
Optional Activities: Any activities not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary.

FAQs

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Do I need prior climbing experience?

No technical climbing experience is required for this trek to Point Lenana. It is a strenuous hike that involves scrambling over loose scree, especially on summit night. However, you must be in very good physical condition, have strong stamina, and be prepared for hiking at high altitude. Experience with multi-day hiking is highly beneficial.

How difficult is the summit night?

Summit night is the most challenging part of the climb. It involves a pre-dawn start (approx. 2:30 AM), 3-4 hours of hiking in darkness and cold on steep, often loose terrain to reach the peak for sunrise. It is mentally and physically demanding but achievable with determination, proper pacing by your guide, and good acclimatization.

What is the accommodation like on the mountain?

We use the park’s mountain huts (Old Moses, Shipton’s, Minto’s). They are basic but provide shelter from the elements, with bunk beds or sleeping platforms in shared dormitory-style rooms. They have simple toilets (often pit latrines) and no heating or electricity for charging. It’s essential to have a warm sleeping bag.

What are the risks of altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness (AMS) is a real risk when ascending above 2,500m. Our itinerary is specifically designed to aid acclimatization with a gradual ascent profile. However, it cannot be guaranteed. Symptoms include headache, nausea, and dizziness. Our guides are trained to monitor for AMS, and the key strategy is to communicate any symptoms immediately. The only cure is descent.

Is the water safe to drink?

We provide treated, safe drinking water at all camps. You will need to refill your personal bottles/hydration bladders from this supply. Do not drink untreated water from streams.

What happens in case of a medical emergency?

Our guides carry basic first-aid kits and emergency oxygen. In the event of a serious medical issue or severe altitude sickness, we will initiate a evacuation. This is why comprehensive travel insurance with emergency high-altitude medical evacuation coverage (up to 5,000m) is mandatory.

What is not included that I absolutely need to bring?

The most critical personal items you must bring or hire are: a cold-weather sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C), sturdy waterproof hiking boots (well broken-in), a high-quality headlamp with extra batteries (essential for summit night), and warm layers (including a down jacket). A full detailed packing list will be provided upon booking.

Can I rent gear from Koki Safaris?

Yes, we offer a rental service for key items like sleeping bags, trekking poles, and duffel bags. Please inquire about availability and rates in advance.

What is the best time of year to climb Mount Kenya?

The driest and best months are January to mid-March and June to October. The shoulder months of December and April can be good but less predictable. The long rains (April-May) and short rains (November) make the trails muddy and views often obscured.

Do you cater to dietary restrictions?

Yes, our mountain chefs can prepare vegetarian, vegan, and other common dietary meals (e.g., gluten-free, lactose-free) with advance notice. Please inform us of any requirements at the time of booking.

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Conquer Point Lenana: Your 4-Day Mount Kenya Traverse Itinerary (From Sirimon to Chogoria)

Trip Facts

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map