Conquer Mount Kenya: Mt Kenya Trekking via Chogoria 4-5 days

If you’re dreaming of summiting Africa’s second-highest mountain, this Mount Kenya trekking tour through the Chogoria route offers a fantastic blend of challenging adventure and awe-inspiring scenery. This experience, offered by Daring Escapes Limited, promises a well-organized, safe journey led by experienced guides, with options to complete the climb in 4 or 5 days.

What makes this trek stand out? First, the diverse terrain keeps the journey interesting—from lush montane forests to stark moorlands and shimmering alpine lakes. Second, you’ll camp under the stars beside picturesque lakes like Lake Ellis, giving you a true wilderness experience. Lastly, we’re particularly fond of the chance to witness the spectacular sunrise from Point Lenana, an unforgettable moment that rewards your effort.

However, one thing to consider is the physical challenge involved, especially at higher altitudes. While the tour is suitable for many active travelers, those with certain health issues or fear of heights might want to think carefully before booking.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy physical activity, nature lovers eager to see diverse landscapes, and those who appreciate well-supported group treks with professional guides. If you’re after a combination of challenge and comfort, this could be your perfect Kenyan adventure.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience with professional guides, cooks, and porters
• Diverse landscapes including montane forests, moorlands, and scenic lakes
• Comfortable camping at stunning locations like Lake Ellis and Old Moses Camp
• Incredible sunrise views from the summit, rewarding early risers
• All logistics handled with transportation, meals, and emergency support included
• Flexible options for 4 or 5 days, allowing acclimatization and personalized pacing

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Mount Kenya Trekking Experience

Route and Itinerary Overview

This trek follows the Chogoria route, known for its breathtaking scenery and fewer crowds compared to the Sirimon route. The journey can be completed in 4 or 5 days, providing flexibility based on your fitness level and adventure appetite.

Day 1: From Chogoria to Lake Ellis

Your adventure kicks off with a scenic drive from Chogoria town to the Chogoria Gate, the official start point. After a hearty lunch, you’ll set out on your first hike, passing through lush vegetation where you can catch glimpses of Nithi Falls, a spectacular cascade that promises some excellent photo opportunities.

Hiking through diverse terrain, you’ll reach the Lake Ellis camp at 3550m. Expect a mix of forest trails and open landscapes, with the chance to unwind at a beautiful lakeside setting. Evenings here are peaceful, and the star-gazing is superb—perfect for setting the tone for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Climbing to Minto’s Hut

Day 2 involves a more challenging ascent to Minto’s Hut at 4200m. The landscape shifts from dense forest to the stark, expansive moorlands. The change in scenery is dramatic, and the fresh mountain air invigorates you.

Our reviewer, Steffi, noted the great organization and friendly team, including guides and porters who are well-versed in managing altitude challenges. Reaching Minto’s Hut is a notable milestone, and the sunset views from the hut are often described as breathtaking.

Day 3: The Summit Push and Return to Camp

The big day. It’ll be an early start, with a pre-dawn wake-up to begin the challenging climb to Point Lenana at 4985m. The magic of witnessing the sunrise over the peaks makes the early wake-up worthwhile, offering a moment of awe that stays with many trekkers.

From the summit, you’ll take in panoramic views, with many hikers commenting on the sense of achievement. After soaking in the scenery, you’ll descend back to Shipton Camp for breakfast. The descent continues through varied terrain until you reach Old Moses Camp for your final night—a perfect blend of exhaustion and exhilaration.

Day 4 or 5: Descent and Reflection

On your final day, you’ll trek down through the mountain’s slopes to Sirimon Gate, completing your traverse. The walk offers a final chance to enjoy the mountain’s diverse ecosystems, with fresh air filling your lungs and memories flooding your mind.

The Experience of Guides and Support Staff

The tour is praised for its professional guides and experienced porters. Guests like Steffi appreciated the quick responses to questions and overall logistical smoothness. Guide names and details aren’t specified, but the team’s knowledge and friendliness shine through, making for a safe, supported experience.

Meals are prepared daily by a cook, with three freshly cooked meals, snacks, tea, and coffee—elements that keep your energy high during strenuous climbs. The camping gear is carried by porters, meaning you only need to focus on walking and enjoying the scenery.

The Landscape and Unique Sightings

From verdant forests at lower elevations to rocky moorlands near Minto’s Hut, each day reveals a different face of Mount Kenya. The Nithi Falls is a highlight, described as a “cascading wonder” that adds to the trek’s visual appeal.

The lakes along the way, especially Lake Ellis, provide stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks, making them ideal spots for photos and moments of quiet reflection. The sunrise from Point Lenana is often called “magical,” painting the sky with an array of colors that make the early morning wake-up entirely worth it.

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Accommodation and Comfort

You’ll stay either in mountain cabins or tents, depending on the day and your preferences. The cabins are described as basic but comfortable, with communal spaces for socializing after long days. Camping is well-organized, and the support staff ensures your gear and food are in place.

Transportation and Logistics

Pick-up and drop-off from Nairobi are included, making the entire experience relatively hassle-free. The transfer is by private vehicle, allowing for flexibility and comfort. The $52 park entry fee per day is an additional cost to keep in mind.

In emergencies, the tour offers round-trip transport to a hospital and basic first aid, which adds a layer of reassurance for many travelers.

Price and Value Consideration

At $820 per person, this tour includes guides, porters, meals, accommodation, transportation, and emergency support. Considering the comprehensive nature of the package, and the level of support provided, this represents good value, especially when you factor in the quality of scenery, safety, and organization.

Some reviewers, like Steffi, highlighted the organization and responsiveness of the team, which enhances the overall value. The only surprise can be additional costs for park entry and personal expenses, so budgeting for these is wise.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trek is ideal for active travelers who enjoy physical challenges and want a well-supported group experience. It suits those who value diverse landscapes and stunning summit views but are also mindful of the altitude and physical demands.

If you’re not comfortable with heights or have certain health issues, you might want to consult your doctor before booking. It’s also important to be prepared for basic camping conditions and early mornings, especially if choosing the 4-day option.

The Sum Up

This Mount Kenya trekking tour via Chogoria offers a blend of adventure, stunning scenery, and expert support that’s hard to beat. The ability to choose between 4 and 5 days allows for flexibility depending on your fitness level and interest in acclimatization.

The well-organized logistics, experienced guides, and breathtaking landscapes make this a rewarding experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. You’ll walk through lush forests, admire incredible lakes, and stand triumphant on the summit as the sun rises over Africa’s second-highest peak.

For travelers seeking a genuine challenge with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and support, this trek is a standout option. It’s a chance to disconnect from everyday life and connect with nature in one of Africa’s most iconic mountains.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the services of professional guides, cooks, and porters, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, tea, coffee), accommodation, round-trip transport from Nairobi, emergency support, and basic first aid.

Are there optional routes or durations?
Yes, you can choose between a 4-day or 5-day trek, allowing for different levels of acclimatization and pacing.

What kind of terrain will I encounter?
Expect a mix of lush montane forests, open moorlands, scenic lakes, and rocky summits. The terrain varies significantly by day, providing a visual contrast that keeps the trek interesting.

What should I pack?
Bring warm clothing, hiking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a change of clothes, and your passport or ID. The weather can change quickly, so layers are recommended.

Is this trek suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18, pregnant women, or those with certain health conditions like heart problems. It involves altitude and physical exertion.

How difficult is the climb?
The trek involves challenging sections, especially the summit push to Point Lenana at nearly 5,000 meters. It’s best suited for active, reasonably fit travelers prepared for altitude.

What is the best time of year to do this trek?
While the tour details don’t specify seasons, generally, the dry seasons (January to March and July to October) are preferred for trekking.

What is the park entry fee?
The fee is $52 per person per day, payable separately from the tour price.

This Mount Kenya trek via Chogoria offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and support, making it ideal for those ready to challenge themselves in one of Africa’s most spectacular landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: