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View detailsMount Kenya · Mountain Climbing
Mount Kenya Climbing Route
- Duration4 days / 3 nights
- Group size1–12 guests
- DifficultyChallenging
- AvailabilityOn request
Overview
Mount Kenya climbing: four days to Point Lenana
Mount Kenya is Kenya’s highest mountain and the second-highest in Africa, with jagged glaciated peaks rising above forest, bamboo and alpine moorland. The national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its highest summits, Batian and Nelion, need technical climbing skills, but Point Lenana at 4,985 metres can be reached by fit trekkers on a non-technical route with a guide. Our Mount Kenya Climbing Route is planned as a four-day Sirimon-to-Chogoria trek from Nairobi.
The route
The Sirimon route starts on the drier north-west side and climbs gradually through forest and open moorland, giving time to adjust to altitude. After a night at a camp or hut such as Old Moses or Shipton’s, the trek continues through Mackinder’s Valley towards the peaks. The summit push to Point Lenana starts in the early hours of the morning to reach the top for sunrise, followed by a descent by the Chogoria route with views of Lake Michaelson and the Gorges Valley.
Scenery and wildlife
Expect giant groundsel and lobelia, dramatic glacial valleys, rock hyraxes and sunbirds. In the lower forest, elephants and buffalo may be present, so guides and rangers set safe routes. Weather changes quickly on the mountain, with clear mornings and cloudy afternoons common.
Fitness and altitude
The trek is physically demanding, with long walking days and cold nights below freezing. Altitude sickness can affect anyone regardless of fitness, and summit success cannot be guaranteed because weather and health decide the day. A steady pace, hydration and good acclimatisation help. Speak to your doctor before booking and take insurance that covers trekking above 4,000 metres.
Best time to climb
January to February and August to September are usually the drier windows. The long rains of April to May and November are wetter and colder.
Who this suits
Active travellers with good fitness who want a high-altitude adventure without technical climbing. Prior hiking experience is helpful, though not essential.
Good to know
The price is a guide per adult sharing and assumes a group of two or more; small groups and single travellers may pay more. Sleeping bags and clothing can be hired on request. We confirm the itinerary, group size and final price in writing before payment.
Highlights
- Point Lenana at 4,985 m
- Alpine moorland with giant groundsel and lobelia
- Lake Michaelson and the Gorges Valley
- Sunrise from the summit
Itinerary
-
1
Day 1 – Nairobi to Old Moses
Drive to Sirimon Gate and trek through forest and moorland to Old Moses camp.
-
2
Day 2 – To Shipton’s Camp
Trek through Mackinder’s Valley to Shipton’s Camp beneath the main peaks.
-
3
Day 3 – Point Lenana and Chogoria
Early-morning summit push to Point Lenana for sunrise, then descend to Mintos or Chogoria.
-
4
Day 4 – Descent and return
Walk down through bamboo forest to the gate and transfer to Nairobi.
What’s included
Included
- Return transfers from Nairobi
- Mount Kenya National Park fees
- licensed mountain guide
- porters and cook
- meals on the mountain
- camping or hut accommodation
- sleeping mattresses
Not included
- Personal climbing clothing and sleeping bag hire
- travel and medical insurance (mandatory)
- tips for crew
- drinks
- extra nights in Nairobi or Nanyuki
- personal expenses
Practical information
- Departure
- Nairobi, early morning
- Pickup
- Nairobi hotels; Nanyuki and Naro Moru starts can be arranged
- Meeting point
- Confirmed after pickup location is provided
- Accommodation
- Mountain huts and camping on the trek; hotel nights before or after are extra
- Best time to go
- January–February and August–September, the drier climbing seasons
- Recommended age
- Ages 12+ with good fitness; minimum age rules may apply
- Cancellation & changes
- Free request changes before final confirmation; final terms depend on the selected supplier.
- How to book
- Submit your dates and guest details. Our team confirms availability and the final itinerary before payment.
- Guide price basis
- Per person sharing, 4-day Sirimon–Chogoria trek to Point Lenana from Nairobi with park fees, guide, porters, cook, camping or hut fees and meals on the mountain. This is an estimate based on current market rates; the final price is confirmed in writing before any payment.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need climbing experience?
No technical skills are needed for Point Lenana, but you need good fitness and comfort with long days at altitude.
Is summit success guaranteed?
No. Altitude, weather and health determine whether you reach the top.
What should I bring?
Warm layers, waterproofs, sturdy boots, a sleeping bag rated to freezing, a headlamp and any personal medicines; we send a full list after booking.
Is travel insurance required?
Yes. Insurance that covers trekking to at least 5,000 metres and medical evacuation is strongly recommended.
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