Mount Kenya Overview
Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya and the second-highest peak in Africa, after Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Located in the central part of the country, Mount Kenya is a beautiful and iconic natural wonder that offers a wide range of activities for visitors.
For hikers and climbers, the mountain provides a challenging and rewarding experience. There are several routes to the summit, each with varying degrees of difficulty. The most popular routes are the Naro Moru, Sirimon and Chogoria routes. It is important to prepare and acclimatize properly before attempting to climb Mount Kenya, as the altitude can pose a risk to travelers.
For those who prefer a more relaxed visit, Mount Kenya National Park is home to abundant wildlife and diverse plant species. Visitors can also experience the local culture by visiting nearby villages and learning about the traditions and daily life of the Kikuyu people.
Whether you are an adventure-seeker or simply seeking a stunning natural escape, Mount Kenya is an unforgettable destination that offers something for everyone.
Popular Safaris
- 4 Days Mount Kenya Climbing Sirimon Route
- 4 Days Mount Kenya Hiking Naromoru Route
- 6 Days Mt. Kenya Trekking Sirimon - Chogoria Route
- 6 Days Mt. Kilimanjaro Climbing Machame Route
- 6 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking Marangu Route
- 3 Days Masai Mara Camping Safari
- 3 Days Amboseli Budget Safari
- 4 Days Masai Mara / Lake Nakuru Camping Safari
- 3 Days Lake Manyara / Ngorongoro Budget Tour
- 4 Days Lake Manyara / Serengeti / Ngorongoro Camping Safari
4 Days Mount Kenya Climbing
Detailed Itinerary [ Sirimon Route ]
Day 1: Nairobi – Sirimon – Judmier Camp (Old Moses Camp), 3-4 hrs, 9km, 860m ascent
Depart Nairobi early morning at 8 am to Nanyuki town for lunch, taking about 4 hours. Proceed to Mount Kenya National Park Sirimon Gate, 1 hr, 2440m. From the Sirimon Park Gate follow the track as it winds uphill though the forest which becomes heath land after about 3 hrs. About 3½ hours from the gate the track veers right to Judmier Camp, 3300m for dinner and overnight.
Meal Plan: L, D
Day 2: Judmier Camp/Shipton Camp, 6-7hrs, 14km, 900m ascent
After breakfast, follow the track uphill, forking left at the junction. After one hour from Old Moses Camp, the track crosses Ontulili River. Go right contouring through the Moorland and crossing Liki North and continue uphill to Mackinders Valley. From the valley, there are panoramic views up the valley towards the main peaks. Dinner and overnight at Shipton Camp, 4200m.
Meal Plan: B, L, D
Day 3: Shipton Camp/Point Lenana/Judmaier Camp (Old Moses Camp), 9-10hrs, 21km
Attempting the summit at Lenana Peak. Leave early morning at 3am up a steep stony quarry that cuts through a cliff clearing visible part towards lower Hall Tarns. Arrival at Point Lenana (Lenana Peak) is at 6:30am, taking about 3hrs. After the sunrise, descend down to Shipton Camp, 2hrs, for breakfast. Then hike further 4hrs down to Old Moses Camp for dinner and overnight.
Meal Plan: B, L, D
Day 4: Judmaier Camp/Sirimon/Nairobi, 2-3hrs, 9km
After breakfast, walk down through the rainforest for 2-3 hours to reach Sirimon Gate to sign out of Mount Kenya National Park. From Sirimon park gate, you will now connect with your transport to Nanyuki Town for lunch. This will be followed by vehicle transfer back to Nairobi arriving at approximately 3pm.
Meal Plan: B, L
- Park entry fees.
- Accommodation at the mountain in tents, huts or bandas at private campsite.
- Services of professional guides, porters and a cook.
- Meals as per the itinerary.
- Emergency evacuation cover
- Certificate upon completion of the hike
- Transport from Nairobi & back
- Hiking gear
- Soft drinks, Bottled water, beers
- Personal Items
- Tips & gratuities for the hiking crew.
- Any other item not mentioned in the inclusive list
Mount Kenya Hiking Gear, Equipments & Essentials
- DUFFEL BAG – For a all your climbing gear and clothing : This will be carried by the porters
- DAYPACK -Large enough to carry your camera, water, raincoat, lunch pack, warm jacket or sweater
- WARM SLEEPING BAG
- SKI POLES – Walking Stick
- Water bottle/containers-Total capacity at least 4 liters
- Mount Kenya map (optional). It can also be bought at the gate.
- HIGH ALTITUDE GEARS
- Waterproof, breathable and wind proof jacket
- Waterproof, breathable and wind proof pants
- Polar fleece
- Thermal underwear
- Mittens or warm gloves
- Glove liners If necessary
- One pair thermal socks
- Balaclava Overhead cover
- Gaiters
- Thermal water flask
- Toilet kit – Soap, tooth brush, toilet paper, wet wipes)
- Towel
- Sun screen and lip protection (SPF 30+)
- Zip lock bags -To protect camera etc from dust
- Money belt -For valuables and identification
- Water resistant semi stiff hiking boots
- Shoes – sneakers, running shoes -For overnight camps
- Socks -Several pairs – at least 4
- Liner socks -Keep feet dry and limit blisters
- Sun hat or simillar -Must have a brim
- Head lamp -Spare batteries and extra bulb
- Water purification tablets
- Sunglasses Dark lenses for the climb with a securing strap
- Flashlight/Torch Spare batteries and extra bulb
- Camera (Extra lenses and film ASA 200 film recommended
- Binoculars
- Powdered sports drinks for the climb e.g. game, isotonic drinks
- Pocket knife
- Note book and pencil
- Plastic bags + Masking tape -To keep clothing dry
- Energy snacks and sweets
- Video camera, tapes, battery packs & tri pod