5-Day Mt. Kenya Climb | Sirimon-Chogoria Traverse Trek
Africa's Second Highest Peak via Its Two Most Spectacular Routes
The ultimate Mt. Kenya experience — ascend the Sirimon Route, summit Point Lenana (4,985m) at sunrise, and descend the breathtaking Chogoria Route in one unforgettable traverse. Trek through bamboo forest and the Mackinder Valley, past giant lobelias and otherworldly groundsel forests found nowhere else on Earth. The sunrise summit delivers panoramic views of Batian and Nelion's jagged spires, while the Chogoria descent reveals Lake Michaelson — one of Africa's most dramatic alpine lakes, set in a volcanic gorge. A UNESCO World Heritage mountain adventure across two spectacular routes.
Tour Highlights
Wildlife You'll Encounter
Species commonly sighted on this safari route
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Sirimon Gate (2,440m) to Old Moses Camp (3,300m)
Drive from Nanyuki to Sirimon Gate on Mt. Kenya's northwest slopes. Trek through dense bamboo and montane forest. Watch for elephant signs, buffalo, and bushbuck. Arrive at Old Moses Camp — a cozy wooden bunkhouse.
Old Moses (3,300m) to Shipton's Camp (4,200m)
Enter the Mackinder Valley — a dramatic U-shaped glacial valley lined with giant groundsel and lobelia plants. Cross streams and ascend through moorland with views of the main peaks. Camp at legendary Shipton's Camp beneath the towering rock faces of Batian and Nelion.
Summit Point Lenana (4,985m) — Sunrise Ascent
Pre-dawn start (3 AM) for the summit push. Trek across the Lewis Glacier moraine in the dark, headlamps cutting through the alpine mist. Reach Point Lenana (4,985m) in time for a spectacular sunrise over the twin peaks of Batian (5,199m) and Nelion (5,188m). Descend to Mintos Hut on the Chogoria side.
Mintos Hut (4,300m) to Chogoria Roadhead (3,000m)
Descend the stunning Chogoria route past Lake Michaelson — set dramatically in a volcanic gorge with 300m cliffs. Continue through the incredible 'Temple' — giant columnar rock formations. Enter the bamboo zone rich with birdlife.
Chogoria Gate to Nairobi
Short walk to Chogoria Gate. Collect certificates and drive back to Nairobi, arriving in the afternoon.
Booking Information
- All prices are per person sharing in a double/twin room
- Single room supplement available on request
- Children under 12 receive discounted rates
- Custom itineraries available — contact us for a personalised quote
- Prices valid for 2025/2026 season — subject to park fee changes
What's Included
- ✓Nairobi hotel/airport pick-up & drop-off
- ✓All KWS park and camping fees
- ✓Professional KWS-certified mountain guide and porters
- ✓Porters and cook (3:1 ratio)
- ✓All meals on the mountain
- ✓Quality camping gear (4-season tents, sleeping mats, dining tent)
- ✓Emergency oxygen and first aid kit
- ✓Daily health monitoring with pulse oximetry
- ✓Summit certificate
- ✓Bottled drinking water
- ✓Government taxes and levies
What's Not Included
- ✗Travel insurance with high-altitude evacuation (mandatory)
- ✗Accommodation before and after climb
- ✗Personal climbing gear and warm clothing
- ✗Sleeping bag rental ($30)
- ✗Tips for mountain crew ($250-350)
- ✗Items and services of a personal nature
Safari Season Guide
Best wildlife viewing. Great Migration in the Mara (Jul–Oct). Dry weather, sparse vegetation makes animals easy to spot.
Calving season in the Serengeti. Good birding. Pleasant weather with occasional showers.
Transition to dry season. Fewer crowds, good rates. Early migration movements begin.
Long rains (Apr–May) and short rains (Nov). Lowest prices. Lush landscapes, excellent birding, newborn animals.
Climbing Rates
All-inclusive rate. Includes park fees, professional guides, porters, meals, and camping/hut fees.
| Group Size | Per Person |
|---|---|
| Solo Climber | $1,820 |
| Group of 2 | $1,580 |
| Group of 3-4 | $1,450 |
| Group of 5+ | $1,340 |
\u26a0\ufe0f Children below 12: Not recommended. Ages 12-16: Adult rate with parental consent.
Book This Safari
Personalised itinerary, guaranteed departures
Starting from
$1,340
per person sharing
No booking fees — We respond within 2 hours