The Mount Kenya Classic: Sirimon To Chogoria Traverse (5 Days)

The Mount Kenya Classic: Sirimon to Chogoria Traverse (5 Days)

Conquer the Summit, Embrace the Beauty: Your Premier Mount Kenya Trekking Adventure

Embark on the ultimate Mount Kenya Classic Trek with Wild Springs Adventures! This 5-day Mount Kenya climb package offers the most scenic Mount Kenya route, taking you from the gradual ascent of the Sirimon side to the breathtaking Gorges Valley of the Chogoria route. Designed for first-time high-altitude trekkers and those seeking a varied and spectacular experience, this Kenya trekking adventure culminates in the triumphant Point Lenana summit, leaving you with unforgettable memories and unparalleled panoramic views. Discover why this is widely considered the best Mount Kenya trek for its diverse beauty and rewarding challenge.

Why Choose This Wild Springs Adventures Package?

• Unrivaled Scenery: Experience the diverse landscapes of Mount Kenya, from lush bamboo forests and open moorlands to the dramatic alpine desert and the spectacular Gorges Valley. The Sirimon Chogoria Traverse is simply breathtaking.
• Optimal Acclimatization: Our carefully crafted 5-day itinerary allows for a steady, well-paced ascent. This crucial strategy significantly improves your chances of reaching Point Lenana safely and comfortably, prioritizing your well-being.
• Expert Local Guides: Trek with our highly experienced, KWS-certified, and English-speaking local mountain guides. Their deep knowledge of the mountain's ecology, history, and local culture enhances your journey and ensures your safety.
• Seamless Logistics & Support: From comfortable return transfers from Nairobi to delicious, nutritious full-board meals prepared by our dedicated cooks, and reliable support from our strong porters, we handle every detail. You can focus solely on your adventure on this 5 Day Mount Kenya Climb.
• Responsible Tourism: Wild Springs Adventures is committed to sustainable tourism practices. We directly support local communities through fair wages and ethical operations. Choose a trek that makes a positive impact.

Detailed Day-to-Day Itinerary: Your Mount Kenya Journey

This carefully planned itinerary maximizes acclimatization and offers the most diverse Mount Kenya trekking experience.

Day 1: Nairobi to Old Moses Camp (Sirimon Gate) – The Forest & Moorland Gateway

• Altitude: Nairobi (1,700m / 5,577ft) to Sirimon Gate (2,650m / 8,694ft) to Old Moses Camp (3,300m / 10,826ft)
• Distance: Approx. 9 km / 5.6 miles
• Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Montane Forest and Heathland

Your Mount Kenya adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your Nairobi hotel. We drive north, crossing the Equator, to Nanyuki town for lunch. After a brief stop, we proceed to Sirimon Park Gate, the starting point of our Sirimon Route ascent. Here, you'll meet your dedicated mountain crew – guides, porters, and cook – for a thorough briefing. We then embark on a gentle Mount Kenya trek through dense montane forest, which gradually gives way to expansive heathland. This initial hike is designed to ease you into the altitude. We'll arrive at Old Moses Camp (Judmaier Camp) in the late afternoon for dinner and your first night on the mountain. Listen to the sounds of the forest as you settle in, preparing for the days ahead on this Mount Kenya Classic Trek.

Day 2: Old Moses Camp to Shipton's Camp – Into the Alpine Zone

• Altitude: Old Moses Camp (3,300m / 10,826ft) to Shipton's Camp (4,200m / 13,779ft)
• Distance: Approx. 14 km / 8.7 miles
• Trekking Time: 6-7 hours
• Habitat: Moorland and Alpine Desert

After breakfast, we continue our Mount Kenya climb uphill, entering the vast moorland zone. The path offers sweeping views as we traverse through the Mackinder's Valley, famous for its unique giant groundsels and lobelias, towering towards the main peaks. This section provides excellent photographic opportunities of Mount Kenya's rugged beauty. The air thins as we ascend, and our guides will encourage a slow, steady pace ("pole pole" – slowly, slowly in Swahili) to aid Mount Kenya acclimatization strategies. We arrive at Shipton's Camp, nestled directly beneath the majestic Batian and Nelion peaks, a truly surreal setting for dinner and overnight.

Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Shipton's Camp – High and Low Strategy

• Altitude: Shipton's Camp (4,200m / 13,779ft) with optional short hikes up to 4,700m / 15,420ft
• Distance: Approx. 5-7 km / 3-4.3 miles (optional)
• Trekking Time: 3-4 hours (optional)
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today is a crucial Mount Kenya acclimatization day, vital for your Point Lenana summit attempt. We spend the day at Shipton's Camp, allowing your body to adapt to the higher altitude. Our guides will lead optional short day hikes to nearby tarns (like Oblong and Hausberg Tarns) or up towards Hausberg Col (4,700m). This strategy of "climb high, sleep low" significantly aids the acclimatization process. The afternoon is at leisure, offering time to rest, enjoy the stunning views of the peaks, or simply relax at camp. Your guide will provide a detailed briefing for the early morning summit bid.

Day 4: Summit Day – Point Lenana & Descend to Mount Kenya Bandas (Chogoria Route)

• Altitude: Shipton's Camp (4,200m / 13,779ft) to Point Lenana (4,985m / 16,355ft) to Mount Kenya Bandas (2,950m / 9,678ft)
• Distance: Approx. 20-24 km / 12.4-15 miles
• Trekking Time: 11-12 hours (including summit climb, breakfast, and descent)
• Habitat: Alpine Desert, Moorland, Bamboo Forest

The most anticipated day of your Mount Kenya classic trek begins pre-dawn (around 3:00 AM). With headlamps illuminating our path, we ascend the steep scree and rocky slopes towards Point Lenana. This challenging 3-4 hour summit push rewards you with an unforgettable African sunrise from the peak, often with views stretching to Mount Kilimanjaro on a clear day. After triumphant photos at Point Lenana (4,985m), the hiker's summit, we begin our descent. We trek down to Mintos Hut for a well-deserved full breakfast. Following this, we continue our descent via the incredibly scenic Chogoria Route. This route reveals the stunning Gorges Valley, Lake Michaelson, and vibrant alpine flora. The long descent takes us through diverse moorland and eventually into the lush bamboo forest, reaching Mount Kenya Bandas (Meru Bandas) for dinner and a well-earned rest in comfortable cabins, often with hot showers. This demanding day on the 5 Day Mount Kenya Climb highlights both the challenge and the beauty of the mountain.

Day 5: Mount Kenya Bandas to Chogoria Town & Return to Nairobi – Farewell to the Mountain

• Altitude: Mount Kenya Bandas (2,950m / 9,678ft) to Chogoria Town (1,500m / 4,921ft) to Nairobi (1,700m / 5,577ft)
• Distance: Approx. 15 km / 9.3 miles (trekking) + 16 km / 10 miles (4x4)
• Trekking Time: 2-3 hours (trekking) + 1.5-2 hours (4x4)
• Habitat: Bamboo Forest and Rain Forest

Your final morning on Mount Kenya begins with breakfast at Mount Kenya Bandas. We then embark on a picturesque 2-3 hour trek through the pristine bamboo and rainforest, descending along a clear track. This final stretch allows you to soak in the last of Mount Kenya's natural beauty. At the forest clearance, a 4x4 vehicle will be waiting to transfer you through the remaining forest section to Chogoria Town. Here, you'll meet your private transfer vehicle for the comfortable journey back to Nairobi, arriving in the late afternoon. Reflect on your incredible Kenya trekking adventure and the triumph of your Point Lenana summit.

Inclusions

• Return Transfers: Comfortable private road transport from Nairobi to Sirimon Gate and return from Chogoria Gate/Chogoria Town back to Nairobi.
• Mount Kenya National Park Fees: All necessary park entry fees, camping/hut fees, and rescue fees are fully covered.
• Professional Mountain Crew:
  • Highly experienced, KWS-certified, English-speaking lead mountain guide (1 guide per 2-3 trekkers).
  • Experienced assistant guide(s) for groups of 4 or more trekkers.
  • Dedicated professional cook providing delicious and nutritious full-board meals.
  • Sufficient porters to carry all group camping equipment, food, and your personal duffel bag (up to 15kg/33lbs per trekker).
• Accommodation on the Mountain: High-quality, comfortable mountain tents with sleeping mattresses for all nights (or mountain hut accommodation at Mount Kenya Bandas on Day 4, depending on booking and availability).
• Full Board Meals: Daily breakfast, packed lunch for daily treks, and hot, freshly prepared dinners while on the mountain. We happily cater to all dietary requirements upon prior request.
• Purified Drinking Water: Daily supply of boiled and/or filtered drinking water throughout your Mount Kenya Classic Trek.
• Safety & Emergency: Comprehensive first-aid kit, emergency oxygen cylinder, and emergency rescue support (as part of park fees).
• Pre-Trek Briefing: A detailed briefing in Nairobi before your climb, covering the itinerary, gear check, and essential preparation tips.

Exclusions

• International Flights & Visa Fees: Costs associated with international air travel to and from Kenya, and any required visa.
• Personal Trekking Gear: Sleeping bag (can be rented from us at an additional cost), hiking boots, trekking poles, waterproof outerwear, warm layering clothing, personal backpack/daypack, headlamp, and other personal items (a detailed packing list will be provided to assist your preparation).
• Tips for Mountain Crew: Gratuities for your dedicated guides, porters, and cook are customary and greatly appreciated. (Refer to our "What is the Tipping Policy when Climbing Mount Kenya?" blog for recommended guidelines).
• Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and medical insurance with high-altitude trekking coverage (mandatory and highly recommended for your safety).
• Personal Expenses: Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, personal snacks, laundry, phone calls, souvenirs, and other items of a personal nature.
• Accommodation in Nairobi: Pre- and post-trek accommodation in Nairobi (can be arranged upon request at an additional cost).
• Any Costs Arising from Early Departure: Or rescue beyond what is covered by standard park fees and your personal travel insurance.

Pricing for Your Mount Kenya Climb

The cost of your Mount Kenya Classic Trek: Sirimon to Chogoria Traverse (5 Days) with Wild Springs Adventures is competitive and transparent, varying based on your group size and nationality. We are dedicated to providing exceptional value, ensuring top-tier safety standards and quality service throughout your adventure.

Contact us today for a personalized quote!

Special Competitive rates are available for Kenyan citizens and residents. Inquire for local pricing!

Ready for Your Mount Kenya Adventure?

Don't just dream of the summit – make it a reality! This Mount Kenya Classic Trek promises an unforgettable journey through one of Africa's most stunning and diverse landscapes, culminating in the rewarding Point Lenana summit.

Contact Wild Springs Adventures to Book Your Mount Kenya Classic Trek Today!

Download Our Essential Mount Kenya Gear Checklist | Learn More About Mount Kenya Acclimatization Strategies | Discover the Best Months for Mount Kenya Climbs