5-Day Sirimon Down Chogoria Scenic Route

Highlights

This five-day trekking adventure follows one of the most scenic routes on Mount Kenya, offering a complete mountain experience from the Sirimon side down to the breathtaking Chogoria route. The journey allows you to explore diverse landscapes, from forest and moorland to alpine terrain, while enjoying some of the most spectacular views on the mountain. Highlights include stunning valleys, dramatic ridges, and iconic high-altitude lakes.
The route is well-paced, making it suitable for first-time hikers as well as experienced trekkers. With gradual altitude gain and a dedicated acclimatization day, it provides a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience while increasing your chances of successfully reaching the summit. Along the way, you will encounter unique vegetation, clear mountain streams, and ever-changing scenery that makes each day different from the last.
A major highlight of this route is the descent through Chogoria, widely regarded as the most beautiful side of the mountain. You will have the opportunity to view Lake Ellis, Lake Michaelson, and other stunning natural features. Combined with experienced guides, organized camping, and rewarding summit views, this trek offers both adventure and unforgettable scenery.

Details Itinerary

Your journey begins with an early morning departure from Nairobi at around 7:30 am. You will travel north toward Nanyuki via a shared shuttle, enjoying views of Kenya’s central highlands, farms, and rural towns along the way. After approximately four hours, you arrive in Nanyuki where you stop for lunch and a short rest before continuing toward the mountain.

From Nanyuki, you proceed to Sirimon Gate at an altitude of about 2440m. After completing entry formalities, your trek begins as you follow a well-defined track that winds gently uphill through dense forest. The forest is rich with indigenous trees, birdlife, and fresh mountain air, creating a peaceful and refreshing start to your trekking experience.

As you continue ascending, the landscape gradually changes from forest to heathland after a few hours. The trail offers beautiful views of the surrounding slopes and valleys as you approach Old Moses Camp at 3300m. Upon arrival, you settle in, enjoy dinner, and spend the night in tents, preparing for the next day’s longer trek.

After breakfast, you begin your trek as the trail climbs steadily through the moorland zone. About an hour from camp, you cross the Ontulili River before continuing along a scenic route that contours through rolling landscapes. The terrain becomes more open, offering expansive views and a sense of the mountain’s scale.

As you progress, you pass through the Liki North Valley and gradually ascend toward Mackinder’s Valley. This section of the trek is particularly rewarding, with panoramic views of the main peaks ahead and dramatic landscapes surrounding you. The unique alpine vegetation and high-altitude environment add to the beauty of the journey.

After 6–7 hours of trekking and covering approximately 17 km, you arrive at Shipton Camp at 4200m. Located near the base of the major peaks, the camp provides incredible views and a true high-mountain atmosphere. You will have dinner and rest early as you prepare for acclimatization and the upcoming summit attempt.

This day is dedicated to acclimatization, helping your body adjust to the altitude while still allowing you to explore the surrounding area. After breakfast, you set out on a guided walk toward Kami Hut and the nearby high-altitude lakes. This gentle hike is both enjoyable and important for improving your chances of a successful summit.

During the walk, you will visit the beautiful Hauseberg Lakes, including Hauseberg Tarn and Nanyuki Tarn. These alpine lakes are surrounded by dramatic rocky landscapes and offer a peaceful setting to relax and take in the views. The area provides excellent opportunities for photography and appreciating the mountain’s unique features.

After the excursion, you return to Shipton Camp in time for a hot lunch. The rest of the afternoon is spent resting, hydrating, and preparing for the summit push. Dinner is served early, and you retire for the night in readiness for the early morning start the following day.

This is the most demanding and rewarding day of the trek. You wake up at around 3:00 am and begin your ascent toward Point Lenana under the stars. The trail follows a steep and rocky path, gradually climbing toward the summit as the air becomes thinner and colder.

After approximately three hours, you reach Point Lenana in time for sunrise. The views from the summit are spectacular, with golden light illuminating the surrounding peaks and valleys. On clear days, the horizon stretches far into the distance, making this a truly unforgettable moment and the highlight of the entire trek.

After enjoying the summit, you descend to Mintos Hut for breakfast before continuing down the Chogoria route. The descent is long but incredibly scenic, passing through stunning landscapes including valleys, lakes, and ridges. After several hours of trekking, you arrive at Meru Bandas at 2950m where you will have dinner and spend the night.

After breakfast, you begin your final descent through the lower slopes of the mountain. The trail leads through forested areas and gradually opens up as you approach the exit point. The walk takes approximately two hours, offering a relaxed end to your trekking adventure.

At the forest clearance, you will be picked up by a 4×4 vehicle and transferred to Chogoria town. This marks the end of your trekking experience, and you will have time to reflect on the journey and the incredible landscapes you have explored over the past few days.

From Chogoria, you connect with a shared transfer back to Nairobi. Lunch will be taken along the way, and you are expected to arrive in the afternoon. Upon arrival, you will be dropped off at your hotel or preferred location, concluding your five-day trekking experience.

Inclusions :

  • Porter services
  • Park fees (for non-residents)
  • All activities (unless stated as optional)
  • Accommodation as per itinerary
  • Camping equipment
  • Professional driver/guide
  • All transportation (unless stated as optional)
  • All taxes and VAT
  • Roundtrip airport transfers
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary
  • Drinking water on all days

Exclusions:

  • Rescue fees
  • Climbing gear
  • International flights
  • Additional accommodation before and after the tour
  • Sleeping bag
  • Bath towels
  • Tips (recommended US$20 per person per day)
  • Personal expenses (souvenirs, insurance, visa fees, etc.)
  • Government-imposed increases in taxes or park fees

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