Planning a trek up Mount Kenya? This 5-day adventure offers an exciting way to reach Point Lenana, the mountain’s highest trekking peak, while soaking in some of the most breathtaking scenery in Central Kenya. From lush forests to dramatic gorges, this tour takes you through a diverse landscape you won’t forget.
What really makes this experience stand out is the combination of the scenic Chogoria Route, the opportunity to see Mount Kenya at sunrise, and the chance to explore the Charming Gorges Valley. Plus, the support team of guides, porters, and cooks ensure you’re well taken care of along the way. However, a potential consideration is the long and physically demanding days, especially on the ascent day — suitable for those with good fitness levels.
This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want more than just a quick summit — it’s ideal for those craving authentic mountain scenery and a genuine challenge. If you’re eager for a well-organized, scenic, and rewarding mountaineering experience, this could be just the trip for you.
Key Points
- Scenic Route: The Chogoria Route offers some of the most beautiful and less crowded sections of Mount Kenya.
- Authentic Experience: Trek through stunning gorges and enjoy panoramic views of the mountain’s peaks and lakes.
- Expert Support: Guided by professional English-speaking guides, with porters and a trained cook included.
- Acclimatization Days: Extra time spent on acclimatization helps improve chances of summiting successfully.
- Challenging Itinerary: Expect long days with a significant ascent, suitable for active travelers.
- Value for Money: All necessary park fees, meals, and transfers are included, making it a comprehensive package.
A Detailed Look at the 5-Day Mount Kenya Climb
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Day 1: From Nairobi to Sirimon
Your adventure begins early in Nairobi, with a 7:30 am pickup. The drive to Nanyuki takes around four hours, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenery en route. Once in Nanyuki, you’ll stop for lunch before continuing for about an hour to reach Sirimon Gate. The journey from the gate to Judmaier (Old Moses) Camp involves a gentle uphill walk through lush forest, which then transitions into more rugged terrain after about 3 hours.
What travelers love: The initial trek offers a peaceful forest walk, setting a calming tone for the climb. “The forest was alive with bird sounds,” one reviewer noted, emphasizing the scenic tranquility. The campsite at 10,826 feet provides stunning mountain views and is well equipped for a hearty meal and rest.
Day 2: Up to Shipton Camp
This day involves around six to seven hours of walking, covering roughly 10 miles. The trail ascends through Moorland, crossing the Ontulili River, and offers panoramic sights of Mackinders Valley. The highlight is the ascent through varied landscapes, leading to Shipton Camp at 13,779 feet.
Authentic insights: Trekking through the quieter parts of Mount Kenya was appreciated by many, including a reviewer who said, “It felt like we had the mountain all to ourselves.” The views of the main peaks from Mackinders Valley are spectacular and give you a sense of the mountain’s vastness.
Day 3: Acclimatization & Rest
A well-needed day for your body to adapt. You’ll walk to the Kami Hut, then explore the Hauseberg Lakes, Nanyuki Tarn, and Hauseberg Tarn before returning to Shipton Camp. This extra day helps prevent altitude sickness and prepares you for the demanding summit push.
Feedback from hikers: Many found this day vital. One noted, “The extra rest and walk around the lakes made a huge difference in how I felt on summit day.” The lakes and views are tranquil and photogenic, making it a relaxing yet beneficial day.
More Great Tours NearbyDay 4: The Big Push to Point Lenana
This is the most physically demanding day, starting at 3:00 am with a steep ascent across rocky terrain. You’ll reach Point Lenana at sunrise after about 3.7 miles of walking, providing an unforgettable moment as the sun rises over the peaks. After taking photos and soaking in the views, you’ll descend to Mintos Hut for breakfast.
Post-summit, the group travels to Mount Meru Bandas for the night, a 4- to 5-hour drive. This long day can be exhausting but is packed with incredible sights and a true sense of accomplishment.
Real-world experience: Travelers often describe the early morning climb as “difficult but worth every step” and “a magical experience watching the sunrise on the summit.” The ascent is rocky and steep, so good footwear and stamina are essential.
Day 5: Descent and Return to Nairobi
The final day involves a two-hour walk down to the forest clearing, where a vehicle waits to transfer you back to Chogoria village and ultimately Nairobi. Expect to arrive in Nairobi in the afternoon, completing your adventure.
Traveler tip: The downhill walk is easier physically but can be tough on your knees. Carry plenty of water and wear supportive shoes.
What’s Included & What to Expect
The tour package offers excellent value by including most essentials: full board meals, park entrance fees, professional guides, porters, and a certificate of successful ascent. The transportation from Nairobi to the mountain is smooth, and the accommodation at camps and cottages is comfortable considering the remote location.
You’ll dine on hearty, well-planned meals, which are important for keeping energy levels high during the long days. The guides are experienced, speaking fluent English, which helps with navigation and sharing interesting insights about the mountain.
What you won’t find included are extras outside the itinerary, so you should budget for personal expenses, souvenirs, or additional snacks.
Practical Considerations
This tour offers a good balance between adventure and organization, but it’s important to be aware of the physical demands. The lengthy summit day, early start, and altitude mean you should be reasonably fit and prepared for cold mornings at high elevation.
The scenic Chogoria Route, while quieter and more dramatic, might also present some challenging sections, especially for less experienced trekkers. The long duration (around 20 miles on summit day) requires mental stamina and physical endurance.
The package is flexible with “reserve & pay later” options and cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind for spontaneous planners.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for active travelers looking for an authentic, scenic, and rewarding challenge. It suits those who appreciate stunning mountain views, enjoy multi-day treks, and want a safety net of experienced guides. If you’re after a quick summit or prefer less demanding outings, this could be intense but ultimately memorable.
FAQs
How long does the drive from Nairobi to Mount Kenya take?
The drive takes about 4 hours to Nanyuki, followed by an additional hour to Sirimon Gate, making it a manageable journey for most travelers.
Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included throughout the trek, ensuring you’re fueled for each day.
What’s the difficulty level?
The trek involves long days and significant elevation gain, especially on summit day, so a good level of fitness is recommended.
Is acclimatization included?
Yes, Day 3 is dedicated to acclimatization, helping improve your chances of reaching Point Lenana.
What kind of accommodation is provided?
Camping in tents and staying in mountain cottages according to the itinerary. The camps are equipped for comfort given the remote location.
Are park fees included?
All park entrance fees with relevant taxes are included in the price.
What language do guides speak?
English is spoken by guides and staff, making communication straightforward.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is there a certificate at the end?
Yes, you’ll receive a certificate of successful ascent, a great keepsake of your achievement.
Final Thoughts
This 5-day Mount Kenya climb offers a well-rounded, scenic, and authentic experience for those ready to challenge themselves. The route via Chogoria is less traveled and more dramatic, giving you incredible views and a sense of adventure. The included support and accommodations make it accessible without sacrificing the rugged charm of mountain trekking.
If you’re someone who loves nature, enjoys multi-day hikes, and wants to witness Mount Kenya’s stunning sunrise, this tour has the ingredients for a memorable expedition. The long days and altitude may be demanding, but for many, the payoff — reaching Point Lenana — is absolutely worth it.
For travelers seeking a combination of adventure, scenic beauty, and expert guidance, this tour hits the mark perfectly. Just pack your hiking boots, prepare for some early mornings, and get ready for a mountain experience unlike any other.
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