4-Day Mount Kenya Trekking with Pick Up

Planning a trek up Mount Kenya? You’re about to discover an experience that balances adventure, comfort, and incredible scenery. We’re reviewing a popular 4-day tour offered by Hyrax Safaris that promises both beginner-friendly routes and enough challenge for seasoned hikers. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a compelling picture of what you can expect.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the professionalism of the guides shines through, with reviewers praising their knowledge and friendliness. Second, the stunning vistas of Mount Kenya’s peaks and landscape truly stand out, making every step memorable. Third, the overall value — including transport, camping, and support — is highlighted as excellent. That said, a potential consideration is the physically demanding nature of the trek, especially the summit push.

This tour suits those looking for a well-organized, safe, and rewarding mountaineering experience — whether you’re a beginner eager to reach Lenana or a seasoned hiker wanting to enjoy the scenery. If you value expert support and a chance to witness one of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views of peaks Batian, Nelion, and Lenana.
• Value for Money: All logistics, camping, and meals included, with many reviewers feeling it’s worth the price.
• Well-Organized Logistics: Pick-up service and support team make the experience smooth.
• Physical Challenge: Suitable for most, but the ascent to Lenana requires stamina.
• Authentic Camping Experience: Sleep in tents, with good support from porters and chefs.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect Each Day

Day 1: From Nairobi to Sirimon Gate and Old Moses Camp

The adventure kicks off with an early morning pick-up in Nairobi around 8:30 am. The drive to Mount Kenya begins, and within a few hours, you’ll arrive at Sirimon Park Gate, situated at 2,660 meters. This is the starting point for your trek, where you’ll meet your guides, porters, and culinary support team.

Once at Sirimon Gate, you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch around noon. Afterward, the first trek—around 9 kilometers—takes roughly three hours, leading you to Old Moses Camp at 3,300 meters.

What’s special? The walk offers your first taste of mountain air and scenic views from Sirimon George, where many reviewers mention stopping to photograph the impressive landscape. Expect a gradual incline through forested terrain, giving you time to acclimate and enjoy your surroundings.

Camping here is a comfortable introduction, with reviews praising the organization and the quality of the support team, including cooks and porters who make camping easier.

Day 2: From Old Moses to Shiptons Camp

The second day is the longest and most demanding part of the trip, with a trek from Old Moses to Shiptons Camp at 4,200 meters. Stretching roughly 14 km, it takes around 8 hours, including a lunch break along the way.

The trail features stunning high-altitude scenery, with views of the peaks Batian, Nelion, and Lenana emerging as you ascend. Reviewers mention the support team’s efficiency in providing packed lunches and attentive care, making the long day more manageable.

What you’ll love: The gradual climb offers plenty of opportunities for photographs, especially as the scenery becomes more dramatic. The evening at Shiptons is a chance to relax and take in panoramic views, with many travelers commenting on the comfort of the camp and the quality of the meals prepared.

Day 3: The Summit Push to Lenana and Return

The third day is the highlight—climbing to Point Lenana, the “ trekking summit” at 4,985 meters. The departure is very early, around 3:00 am, to reach the peak by sunrise. This part of the trek is stony and steep but highly rewarding.

You’ll begin with a pre-dawn ascent, navigating rocky terrain with your guide. The goal is to arrive at Lenana around 6:30 am, just in time to witness the sunrise and capture stunning photos. Reviewers repeatedly mention the guide’s expertise, safety, and humor during this challenging section.

After summiting, you’ll descend back to Shiptons for breakfast and then continue down to Old Moses Camp. The descent covers another 14 km and takes several hours, but many say that the beauty of the landscape makes it worth every step.

Day 4: Descent and Return to Nairobi

Your final day involves a gentle descent through rainforest reaching Sirimon Gate after 2-3 hours. This part of the trek offers lush scenery and a chance to reflect on the journey.

Once at the gate, your driver will be waiting to transfer you to Nanyuki for a well-deserved lunch. The trip concludes with your return to Nairobi, with drop-off at your hotel.

Reviewers highlight how smooth the logistics are, with many feeling relieved and proud of their achievement after completing the trek.

The Experience: What Really Sets This Tour Apart

Guides and Support Team: Several reviews emphasize the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Daniel, Sam, and Patrick. Words like “super fit,” “knowledgeable,” and “very friendly” recur, underscoring how vital support is during high-altitude treks. Their ability to point out plants and animals enriches the experience, making it more than just a walk.

Scenic Highlights: Expect views of Mount Kenya’s signature peaks and valleys, especially from Shiptons Camp and during the summit push. Travelers mention the breathtaking sunrise from Lenana as a real highlight—worth the early wake-up call.

Camping and Meals: Support staff ensure a comfortable camping experience, with many reviewers praising the quality of food and the organization of tents and gear. This helps keep morale high during the longer days and higher elevations.

Value for Money: At around $941 per person, including transportation, guides, camping, and meals, many consider this a good deal, especially given the support and safety offered. The attention to detail and professionalism make it a worthwhile investment for a memorable adventure.

Group Size: With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour maintains a good balance of camaraderie and personal attention, according to reviews. This means you’ll have enough fellow hikers to share stories but still feel cared for.

Physical Demands: The trek is described as suitable for most travelers, including beginners, but the summit push is still physically challenging. Reviewers note that good fitness levels enhance the experience, especially for the early morning ascent.

Why Choose This Tour?

This particular trek offers an authentic and well-supported Mount Kenya experience. The guides’ expertise, combined with the scenic grandeur and supportive logistics, makes it a strong choice. Whether you’re tackling your first high-altitude summit or seeking a scenic adventure, you’ll find this tour offers a compelling mix of challenge and comfort.

Final Thoughts: Who’s This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a manageable yet rewarding mountaineering experience with excellent support, this trip ticks many boxes. It’s ideal for beginners who want to reach Lenana without risking safety or comfort, but seasoned hikers will also appreciate the stunning views and the well-organized support system.

Travelers looking for authentic camping experience with professional guides will find this tour offers a genuine taste of mountain life. Plus, those with a sense of adventure and some physical fitness will thrive during the summit push.

While it’s not a leisurely stroll, the scenery, expert guidance, and sense of achievement make this a truly memorable journey. If you’re ready to stand on one of Africa’s iconic peaks, this tour can deliver an unforgettable experience.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up from Nairobi and transport to and from Mount Kenya, making logistics seamless.

How physically demanding is the trek?
The trek is suitable for most travelers, including beginners, but the ascent to Lenana requires stamina. The long days and early mornings can be challenging, especially at high altitude.

What is the accommodation like during the trek?
You’ll sleep in tents at campsites like Old Moses and Shiptons. The support team provides good quality camping gear and meals, making the experience comfortable.

Are meals provided?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, prepared by the support chefs. Many reviewers highlight the tasty and plentiful food throughout the trek.

Can solo travelers join this tour?
Absolutely. The maximum group size is 20, and many reviews mention feeling safe and well-looked after, even when traveling alone.

What is the best time to do this trek?
While the tour is available year-round, the best weather generally falls outside of the rainy seasons. Check local climate patterns for optimal conditions.

What should I bring for the trek?
Expect to carry or have packed for essentials like warm clothing, sturdy hiking boots, a flashlight, and personal essentials. The support team handles camping gear and food.

This 4-day Mount Kenya trek strikes a great balance between challenge, comfort, and scenery. Whether you’re after an inspiring summit or a scenic mountain adventure, this tour seems primed to deliver a truly memorable experience.