Experience the very best of Mount Kenya on our 5 Day Mount Kenya Hike – Sirimon Up, Chogoria Down, a carefully designed trekking adventure that combines excellent acclimatisation with the mountain’s most spectacular scenery. Perfect for both first-time high-altitude hikers and experienced trekkers, this itinerary follows the gentle Sirimon Route to the summit before descending via the breathtaking Chogoria Route, widely regarded as the most scenic trail on Mount Kenya.
Over five unforgettable days, you’ll journey through lush montane forests, giant bamboo, alpine moorlands, rocky valleys, and crystal-clear mountain lakes before reaching Point Lenana (4,985 metres) in time for a magical African sunrise. Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Batian and Nelion peaks, encounter unique Afro-alpine vegetation, and experience the peaceful beauty of Mount Kenya National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The extra day on the mountain allows for better acclimatisation, making the trek more enjoyable while increasing your chances of successfully reaching the summit. With experienced local guides, dedicated porters, freshly prepared meals, and well-paced hiking days, you can focus on enjoying every moment of the adventure.
Confused on where to start? refer to out Mt Kenya hiking guide to understand all you need to know bfeore embarking on the challenge.
Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. Travel north through the fertile highlands of central Kenya, passing coffee and tea plantations before arriving at Sirimon Gate (2,650m) on the northwestern side of Mount Kenya National Park.
After meeting your experienced mountain guides, porters, and cook, complete the park registration before beginning your hike through beautiful montane forest. As you gain altitude, the dense forest gradually opens into bamboo and heathland, offering your first panoramic views of the mountain.
Arrive at Old Moses Camp (Judmaier Camp) in the afternoon, where you can relax, acclimatise, and enjoy a freshly prepared dinner while taking in the peaceful mountain surroundings.
Driving Time: 4–5 Hours
Hiking Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 Hours
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, continue your ascent through the spectacular Mackinder’s Valley, one of Mount Kenya’s most scenic hiking trails. The landscape changes dramatically as giant lobelias, groundsels, rocky ridges, and alpine vegetation replace the lower forest.
The gradual climb provides excellent acclimatisation while offering stunning views of Batian, Nelion, and the surrounding valleys. Keep your camera ready as every turn reveals another breathtaking mountain panorama.
Arrive at Shipton’s Camp, your base for the summit attempt, where you’ll enjoy dinner and an early night’s rest.
Hiking Distance: 14 km
Hiking Time: 6–7 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today is dedicated to acclimatisation, one of the keys to a successful summit. After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed hike to Kami Hut or Hausberg Col, depending on weather conditions and your guide’s recommendation.
This shorter hike helps your body adjust to the altitude while rewarding you with magnificent views of Mount Kenya’s rugged peaks, glaciers, and alpine valleys. After spending time at higher elevation, descend back to Shipton’s Camp for lunch and an afternoon of rest before the summit climb.
This extra acclimatisation day greatly improves your chances of comfortably reaching Point Lenana the following morning. However if you dont need an extra day for acclimatisation then we recommend a 4 Day Mt Kenya hike.
Hiking Time: 3–5 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Your summit day begins around 3:00 a.m. Under a blanket of stars, begin the final ascent to Point Lenana (4,985m), the highest trekking summit on Mount Kenya.
Reaching the summit at sunrise is an unforgettable experience. Watch as the first golden light illuminates the jagged peaks of Batian and Nelion while the plains of Kenya stretch endlessly below.
After celebrating your achievement and taking photographs, descend via the breathtaking Chogoria Route, widely regarded as the most scenic route on Mount Kenya. Pass dramatic cliffs, alpine lakes, and the spectacular Gorges Valley before arriving at Mintos Camp for your overnight stay.
Hiking Distance: Approximately 18 km
Hiking Time: 8–9 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Wake up to one final morning in the mountains before beginning your descent through the beautiful Chogoria Route. The trail passes the stunning Lake Michaelson, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation, making it one of Mount Kenya’s most photographed locations.
Continue through bamboo forests and indigenous rainforest before reaching Chogoria Gate, where your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Nairobi.
Arrive in Nairobi in the late afternoon with unforgettable memories of conquering Africa’s second-highest mountain and experiencing two of Mount Kenya’s finest trekking routes.
For those wishing to extend their holiday, we can arrange a Masai Mara Safari, Amboseli National Park Tour, Samburu National Reserve Adventure, or a relaxing beach escape to Diani Beach.
Hiking Distance: Approximately 16–18 km
Hiking Time: 5–7 Hours
Driving Time to Nairobi: 4–5 Hours
Meals: Breakfast
