Sirimon – Chogoria Traverse

The trek begins at approximately 12:00 noon from the Mohakin Travel Office in Nanyuki at 1,950 m. Before departure, the guide assists with a final mountain equipment and gear check to ensure that all essential equipment required for the trek is available and ready. A vehicle transfer of approximately 40 minutes takes you from Nanyuki to the Sirimon Gate at approximately 2,650 m. Upon arrival at the gate, a hot lunch is served before completing the Mount Kenya National Park registration and entry formalities. After registration, the trek begins from the mid-mountain forest and gradually climbs toward the Old Moses Camp at approximately 3,300 m. The approximately 9.4 km trail takes around 3–4 hours at a slow and comfortable pace. The route passes through beautiful mountain forest before gradually transitioning toward the heather zone. Along the way, there may be opportunities to spot wildlife, including waterbucks, zebras, and, depending on the season and conditions, occasionally elephants. Arrival at Old Moses / Judmier’s Camp is expected in the afternoon, in time for the 4:00 pm tea, coffee, and hot drinks. There is time to relax and enjoy the surrounding mountain landscape and sundowner before dinner is served. Overnight at Old Moses / Judmier’s Camp.

Wake-up is at approximately 6:30 am, with breakfast served at 7:00 am. After breakfast,prepare to begin the day’s trek at approximately 8:00 am. The approximately 18 km trail continues upward from the heather zone toward the alpine zone, gradually gaining elevation as the route approaches Shipton’s Camp at approximately 4,200 m. The day’s trek takes approximately 6–7 hours and is undertaken at a steady and manageable pace, allowing regular opportunities to rest, hydrate, and appreciate the changing mountain environment. A lunch break is taken at the Likii North River picnic point, providing an opportunity to rest and refuel before continuing toward the higher elevations. As the trail progresses, the vegetation becomes increasingly sparse and the landscape more rugged, with spectacular views of Mount Kenya’s high-altitude terrain. Arrival at Shipton’s Camp is expected in the afternoon, in time for the 4:00 pm tea, coffee, and hot drinking chocolate. After refreshments, there is an opportunity to take a short walk around the camp and enjoy the dramatic surroundings. An early dinner is served in preparation for the following morning’s summit attempt, followed by an overnight stay at Shipton’s Camp.

Summit day begins at approximately 2:00 am with a light breakfast consisting of tea, coffee, and cookies. After final preparations, the summit ascent begins at approximately 2:30 am. The approximately 3 km trail to Point Lenana at 4,985 m takes around 3.5 hours at a slow and steady pace. The ascent passes through the high alpine and cold desert environment. The goal is to reach Point Lenana between approximately 6:00 and 6:30 am, in time to witness the sunrise from the highest trekking summit on Mount Kenya. At the summit, there is time to celebrate the achievement, take photographs, and enjoy the spectacular panoramic views across the mountain and surrounding landscape. After spending time at Point Lenana, the descent begins toward the Chogoria side of Mount Kenya. The trail descends approximately 1 km to Upper Simba Tarn at around 4,500 m, where a full breakfast and short rest are provided. After breakfast, the trek continues for approximately 4 km toward Lake Michaelson at around 4,000 m. Lake Michaelson is one of the most spectacular features of the Chogoria Route, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and magnificent high-altitude scenery. Arrival at camp is expected in time for a hot lunch. The afternoon can be spent relaxing around the lake, taking a walk along its shores, enjoying the scenery, or, depending on weather conditions, trying some trout fishing. Later in the evening, a bonfire provides a relaxing atmosphere before dinner is served. Overnight at Lake Michaelson Camp.

Begin the day’s trek with a 2.5 km climb out of the Gorges Valley. Once you reach the top of the valley, take time to appreciate the remarkable views toward the eastern side of Mount Kenya. From the top of the valley, continue along the trail toward the roadhead at approximately 3,300 m. This section involves a continuous 8 km descent. Enjoy a hot lunch at the roadhead followed by a short rest. Later, visit the nearby Nithi Waterfalls as you continue the descent for approximately 7 km toward Anabas Campsite. Arrive at camp in time for the 4:00 pm tea, coffee and hot drinking chocolate served with cookies. Enjoy dinner and spend the night in 4-season-rated mountain tents with foam mattresses. Overnight: Anabas Campsite.