🏔️ Mount Kenya Chogoria Route Climb & Northern Kenya Safari

7 Days – From Nairobi to Chogoria Route, Meru National Park & Samburu National Reserve

This 7-day adventure combines high-altitude trekking with authentic safari experiences, making it ideal for travelers who want to connect deeply with Kenya’s landscapes, wildlife, and culture.

This itinerary is perfect for travelers seeking both adventure and immersion. From the misty mountain lakes and alpine peaks of Mount Kenya to the vast savannas teeming with wildlife in Meru Park and Samburu Reserve.

🌍 Tour Overview

• Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights

• Route: Chogoria Route → Sirimon Route → Meru → Samburu → Nairobi

• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

• Best Season: June to October and December to March

• Highlights:

  • Scenic Chogoria Route Climb with Lake Ellis and Gorges Valley views

  • Point Lenana Summit (4,985 m) Sunrise Hike

  • Meru National Park Safari with Big Five & Samburu Special Five

  • Samburu Astro Safari under Equatorial skies

🏔️ Mount Kenya Chogoria Route Climb (4 Days / 3 Nights)

Chogoria Route Climb – The Most Scenic Approach to Mount Kenya

Day 1 – Nairobi to Chogoria Gate via Chogoria Town

Distance: 210 km from Nairobi to Chogoria Gate | 9 km Gate to Roadhead | 3 km to Mugi Hills summit | 3 km descent to Lake Ellis

Altitude Gain: 1,450 m → 3,455 m | Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinner

Your adventure begins with a morning pick-up from your Nairobi hotel. Drive through the central highlands, Kiambu, Muranga, Embu, and Tharaka Nithi counties, passing tea plantations, coffee farms, and local markets buzzing with life. Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of Mount Kenya’s eastern slopes. At Chogoria Town (1,500 m), enjoy a brief stop for breakfast before proceeding to Chogoria Gate (2,950 m), the official park entry. From here, your Chogoria Route Climb begins. A scenic trek through bamboo forests and giant podocarpus trees 🌲. The trail is alive with bird calls and occasional sightings of colobus monkeys.

At Nithi Waterfalls, pause to take in the thunderous cascade plunging into the lush gorge below. As you exit the Nithi waterfalls towards the Roadhead, explore the ancient caves used by early explorers and local guides. The caves are adjacent to the Gate Gorges, a dramatic section offering panoramic views of the Chogoria Valley. From the Roadhead (3,200 m), begin the steady climb up Mugi Hills (3,500 m). Mugi Hill is a beautiful vantage point offering sweeping views of Giant’s Billiard Table Mountain (3,360 m/11 024ft a.s.l.), the twin peaks that crown the eastern ridges of Mount Kenya.

The slopes here bloom with mountain flowers like lobelias 🌼 and everlasting plants, creating a colorful alpine tapestry. After taking in the views, descend gently to your camp at Lake Ellis (3,455 m),  a tranquil crater lake surrounded by heather and tussock grasslands.

Highlights: Nithi Waterfalls, the Gate Gorge, Caves, and Mugi Hill views.

Day 2 – Lake Ellis to Mintos Hut (4,200 m)

Distance: ~10 km | Altitude Gain: 1,250 m | Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a peaceful morning at Lake Ellis (3,470 m), the trail continues gently uphill along the western edge of the lake before curving toward the higher moorlands. 🌄

Soon after leaving camp, you cross the Nithi River, which flows from the high glaciers of Mount Kenya. The river crossing offers a refreshing moment, with clear alpine water meandering through moss-covered stones and wild heather.

Beyond the river, the trail climbs steadily, revealing stunning views of Mugi Hill and the rolling ridges of the Gorges Valley. The terrain becomes rockier and the air thinner. You’ll notice changing vegetation — from montane grasslands to open moorland rich with giant lobelias, everlasting flowers, and senecio plants.

By midday, you’ll reach the dramatic Mintos Hut (4,200 m), also called Hall’s Tarn Camp. It sits in a spectacular high-alpine basin surrounded by several tarns. Close by are Minto’s Tarn (or Mintons Lake) and Haller Tarn (also called Hall Tarns), a pair of twin tarns that shimmer with reflections of the surrounding cliffs and peaks.

In the afternoon, explore a short trail to Observation Point, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Gorges Valley and Lake Michaelson far below. The Chogoria route climb is truly the most scenic route in Mount Kenya. 

Day 3 – Mintos to Point Lenana (4,985 m) – Shipton Camp – Old Moses Camp

Distance: ~20 km | Altitude: 4,200 m → 4,985 m → 3,300 m | Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The day begins early, around 2:00 a.m., as you set off under a brilliant canopy of stars 🌌. The ascent from Mintos Camp toward Point Lenana, the third-highest peak on Mount Kenya, is steep but immensely rewarding. After an hour of steady climbing, you’ll pass Simba Tarn, a small, icy lake often used as a high camp for those on a longer 5-day Chogoria Route climb. We pass it at night, so you might not see it, but just knowing it rests quietly beneath the summit adds mystery to the experience.

A short distance later lies Harris Tarn, the highest tarn on Mount Kenya. Its calm waters, just below the summit ridge, capture a breathtaking reflection of the first light at sunrise. This spot is a dream for mountain photographers, offering one of the most striking alpine scenes in East Africa. As you approach the summit ridge, the air grows thin and crisp. The first golden rays of dawn touch Point Lenana (4,985 m), and suddenly the world opens beneath you. The glaciers, the jagged peaks of Batian and Nelion, and the valleys you conquered below. 🏔️

At this moment, you’ll understand why the Chogoria Route is often called the most scenic route on Mount Kenya. A path lined with glittering tarns, deep gorges, and surreal highland beauty found nowhere else on the mountain. Take time for photos and quiet reflection at the summit. You may also learn about the Mount Kenya peaks in Kikuyu mythology. The Kikuyu, Embu, and Meru people see Mount Kenya (known as Kirinyaga, “the Place of Brightness”) as the home of Ngai, the God of creation. Facing east at sunrise, the Kikuyu believed they were looking toward God’s dwelling. A powerful perspective to share in this moment of triumph. For a detailed insight, read our blog: Mount Kenya Climb Summit Experience

Congratulations — you’ve reached Point Lenana, the highest trekking summit of Mount Kenya! 🎉

After celebrating your success, descend through the Sirimon Valley, passing rugged alpine ridges and unique high-mountain flora. By midmorning, you’ll arrive at Shipton’s Camp (4,200 m) for a hearty breakfast and well-deserved rest. The rest of the day is for relaxation, storytelling, and soaking in your achievement amid one of Africa’s most magnificent landscapes. After Breakfast, continue down the Sirimon Route through the moorlands to Old Moses Camp for overnight rest.

Day 4 – Old Moses Camp to Sirimon Gate (2,650 m) – Transfer to Meru National Park (Lunch-time Arrival)

Distance: ~9 km trek from Old Moses (3,300 m) to Sirimon Gate (2,650 m) | Drive Distance: ~150 km (Approx. 3.5–4 hrs) | Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The final morning on the mountain starts early. ⏰ Breakfast is served at 5:45 a.m., and by 6:00 a.m., you begin the gentle descent from Old Moses Camp down the Sirimon Route. The trail winds through beautiful montane forest filled with towering Hagenia and podocarpus trees. You may spot colobus monkeys and hear the chatter of mountain birds greeting the dawn. This section covers 9 km of mostly downhill walking, losing about 650 m in altitude. The air gets warmer as you descend, and the vegetation shifts from alpine moorland to lush forest. You’ll reach the Sirimon Gate (2,650 m) around 8:00 a.m.

At the gate, take time for a quick cleanup at the KWS facilities and change into fresh clothes before beginning the next adventure. By 9:00 a.m., depart by road toward Meru National Park, one of Kenya’s least-crowded but most rewarding safari destinations. The drive (approximately 150 km) takes you through scenic highland farmlands, passing Timau wheat fields, Meru tea plantations, and small rural markets that showcase authentic Kenyan life along the way.

Arrive at your Meru National Park Safari lodge by lunchtime. Enjoy a hearty meal, followed by a short siesta to recover from the mountain adventure.

At 4:00 p.m., head out for your first afternoon game drive inside the park. This lush wilderness is known for its Big Five sightings: elephant, lion, leopard, rhino, and buffalo — as well as the Samburu Special Five. The Northern five special five include the Grevy’s zebra, Beisa oryx, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk. The park’s 15 permanent rivers and green landscapes create a paradise for wildlife photography and quiet exploration.

Return to your lodge by 6:00 p.m. for dinner and an evening of relaxation under the starlit skies of Meru 🌌.

• 🏕️ iKWETA Safari Camp – Budget Eco Camp

• 🦁 Elsa’s Kopje Lodge – Luxury Boutique Lodge

• 🐘 Rhino River Camp – Mid-Range Comfort

🐘 Meru National Park Safari (2 Days / 1 Night)

Untamed Wilderness and Historic Conservation Land

Meru National Park is a biodiversity hotspot — home to the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, rhino, and buffalo) and the Samburu Special Five (reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Grévy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk). Its lush landscape is fed by over 15 rivers 💦 flowing from Mount Kenya. This park is also famous for the story of Elsa the Lioness and the Adamsons, whose work inspired Born Free. Don’t miss the Rhino Sanctuary, a secure “park within a park” that offers rare close-up encounters with both black and white rhinos.

Day 5 – Morning Game Drive in Meru National Park & Transfer to Samburu National Reserve 🐘🌅

Distance: Meru to Samburu – Approx. 160 km (4–5 hours drive) | Altitude: 1,000 m (Meru) to 850 m (Samburu) | Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake up to the melodic sounds of nature — the soft calls of doves, the rustle of leaves, and the distant grunt of hippos from the river. After breakfast, set out for a full-day Meru National Park Safari, one of Kenya’s most authentic and rewarding wilderness experiences. Meru National Park is often described as a Complete wilderness or a green paradise, with over 13 rivers and lush vegetation stretching from riverine forests to wide grasslands. The park is famous for its Big Five, but it’s also home to the Samburu Special Five, the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and the elegant gerenuk.

Your morning game drive follows the tranquil Rojewero River, known for its many hippo pools and crocodile sightings. Elephants bathe here, herds of buffalo graze nearby, and the surrounding acacia woodlands are filled with birdlife. Meru Park is perfect for those passionate about wildlife photography or birdwatching in Meru National Park. Keep your camera ready for rare bird species such as the Abyssinian Scimitarbill, Common Scimitarbill, and the colorful Malachite Kingfisher. Meru is also one of the few parks in Kenya where you might spot fruit bats roosting in riverine trees. An unusual and fascinating sight.

By 11:00 a.m., return to your lodge for an early lunch and prepare to continue your journey north. Depart Meru National Park around 12:30 p.m., driving through the scenic foothills of Mount Kenya, past small farming towns and the dramatic semi-arid landscapes that lead to Samburu.

🌌 Samburu National Reserve Safari (2 Days / 1 Night)

Where Wildlife Meets Stars – Northern Kenya Safari Experience

From Meru, journey north to Samburu National Reserve, a rugged and beautiful landscape cut by the life-giving Ewaso Nyiro River. This region is the heart of Northern Kenya Safari experiences, celebrated for its unique Samburu Special Five and rich cultural heritage.

Why Samburu Safari is Special:

• Rare wildlife species found only in Northern Kenya

• Authentic and less-crowded game viewing

• Cultural interactions with the Samburu people

• Stargazing and astro-tourism under dark African skies

As you enter Samburu National Reserve, the adventure resumes with a drive-in game drive en route to your lodge. This is where the wild north begins — acacia-dotted savannahs, rugged hills, and the life-giving Ewaso Nyiro River, which attracts herds of elephants, lions, and the rare Samburu Special Five. Arrive at your lodge or camp, such as Samburu Sopa Lodge, Ashnil Samburu Camp, or Elephant Bedroom Camp. Just in time to enjoy the sunset glow across the reserve.

Settle in for dinner and overnight at your Samburu Safari lodge, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the distant calls of nocturnal wildlife.

Day 6 – Full-Day Game Drive in Samburu National Reserve + Astro Tourism Experience 🌌🐆

Distance (Game Drive Loop): 100–50 km depending on wildlife movement | Altitude: ~850 m | Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake up to the golden light of northern Kenya filtering over the rugged Samburu hills. After breakfast, set out for a full-day Samburu Safari — a journey into one of Kenya’s most enchanting and distinct landscapes. Unlike other parks, Samburu National Reserve is defined by contrasts: the shimmering Ewaso Nyiro River, the dry red earth, and the dramatic backdrop of acacia-dotted plains and rocky escarpments. This unique ecosystem supports an incredible range of wildlife, including the Samburu Special Five — Grevy’s zebra, Beisa oryx, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk, all specially adapted to this semi-arid habitat.

The morning drive follows the Ewaso Nyiro River, the lifeline of Samburu. Elephants often gather along its banks to drink and bathe, while crocodiles bask lazily on the riverbanks. You might encounter lions resting under the shade, or graceful cheetahs scanning the plains for prey. Pause mid-morning for a picnic breakfast at a scenic river viewpoint. The stillness here is profound, just the sound of flowing water and distant bird calls echoing through the valley.

Samburu is also home to a remarkable range of bird species. From the vivid Vulturine Guineafowl to the Golden-breasted Starling and Eastern Yellow-billed Hornbill. For photography enthusiasts, the sharp desert light and dramatic terrain create striking compositions. It’s no surprise that Samburu National Reserve photos are among the most iconic of Kenya’s northern circuit.

After lunch, continue exploring the park. As the sun begins to set, return to your lodge for a magical experience at night. The Astro Tourism in Samburu. Samburu recently became home to Kenya’s first astro-tourism planetarium, located at Samburu Sopa Lodge. The clear, pollution-free skies here make it one of the best stargazing spots in Africa.

Under expert guidance, you can explore both Northern and Southern Hemisphere constellations thanks to Samburu’s equatorial position. The planetarium itself blends modern architecture with traditional Manyatta design, creating a seamless fusion of culture and science beneath the African stars. After an unforgettable night of stargazing, return to your lodge (If not staying at Sopa Lodge) for an overnight. Your heart full from a day that connected earth, wildlife, and sky in one unforgettable safari journey.

Day 7 – Samburu Cultural Visit and Return to Nairobi 🚙🌄

Meal Plan: | Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch Distance: ~340 km

Enjoy an early breakfast at the lodge before check-out. Begin your drive-out game drive, spotting any wildlife you may have missed earlier as the morning light spreads across the Samburu plains. Along the way, stop at a Samburu Cultural Village. This is an excellent place to meet the local community, learn about their way of life, and pick up handcrafted souvenirs such as beadwork, carvings, and woven baskets.

Continue your scenic drive to Nairobi with convenient comfort breaks en route. For those interested, we can arrange an optional shopping stop at a local market or mall, or even an authentic Kenyan coffee experience before heading into the city.

Upon arrival, tip your driver-guide and tour leader in appreciation for their service. You’ll then be dropped off at your hotel for the night or transferred directly to the airport for your onward flight, marking the end of an unforgettable Mount Kenya and Northern Kenya adventure.

🏕️ Accommodation Summary

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

1️⃣ How difficult is the Chogoria Route Climb?
The Chogoria Route Climb is moderate to challenging. It’s scenic but involves steep ascents, so reasonable fitness and some trekking experience are recommended.

2️⃣ What is the Chogoria Route Climb Distance?
The total distance covered on the Chogoria-Sirimon crossing is about 60 km, with varied terrain ranging from bamboo forests to alpine meadows.

3️⃣ What animals can I see on a Meru National Park Safari?
Expect to see the Big Five and the Samburu Special Five, plus hippos, crocodiles, and over 400 bird species.

4️⃣ Is Samburu National Reserve safe to visit?
Yes, Samburu National Reserve is safe for tourists. Security is managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service and local rangers. The region is remote but welcoming, with friendly communities and experienced safari guides.

5️⃣ What is the best time to visit Mount Kenya and Samburu?
June to October and December to March offer clear skies and the best trekking and wildlife viewing conditions.

🌄 Why Choose the Mount Kenya Chogoria Route Climb + Northern Kenya Safari?

This combined adventure is for travelers seeking Kenya beyond the ordinary. It brings together the scenic Chogoria Route Climb with the authentic wildlife and cultural beauty of Meru and Samburu Safaris — making it one of the most rewarding multi-experience journeys in Africa.