Mt. Kenya

Itinerary for Hiking Mt. Kenya

Mount Kenya, the second-highest mountain in Africa, rises to 5,199 meters (17,057 feet) above sea level. Located in central Kenya, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts rugged peaks, glaciers, and diverse ecosystems. Hiking Mount Kenya offers a challenging and scenic adventure, with routes passing through dense forests, moorlands, and rocky landscapes. The ascent to the summit provides stunning views of the surrounding plains and a unique opportunity to experience the mountain's pristine beauty.
Mount Kenya, Africa's second-highest peak, offers a variety of trekking routes with diverse landscapes. The 8-day itinerary outlined below focuses on the Sirimon Route, one of the more scenic and accessible paths, and includes a full acclimatization process to maximize your chances of reaching the summit.

Day 1: Nairobi to Sirimon Gate to Old Moses Camp
Elevation: 2,600m (8,530 ft) to 3,300m (10,827 ft)
Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Description:
06:00 - 07:00: Pickup from your hotel in Nairobi and drive to Sirimon Gate (approximately 4-5 hours).
12:00: Arrive at Sirimon Gate, complete registration, and start the trek to Old Moses Camp.
15:00: Arrive at Old Moses Camp. Enjoy lunch and relax.
16:00 - 18:00: Explore the area around the camp or relax to acclimatize.
Accommodation: Old Moses Camp (Dormitory-style or shared tents)
Estimated Price: $100 - $150 per person
Day 2: Old Moses Camp to Shipton’s Camp
Elevation: 3,300m (10,827 ft) to 4,200m (13,780 ft)
Distance: 14 km
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Description:
07:00: Breakfast at Old Moses Camp.
08:00: Trek to Shipton’s Camp, passing through diverse moorland with stunning views of the mountain and surrounding landscapes.
14:00: Arrive at Shipton’s Camp. Lunch and rest.
15:00 - 17:00: Optional acclimatization walk to the nearby acclimatization zone or relax.
Accommodation: Shipton’s Camp (Dormitory-style or shared tents)
Estimated Price: $150 - $200 per person
Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Shipton’s Camp
Elevation: 4,200m (13,780 ft)
Distance: Varies (short hikes)
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Description:
08:00: Breakfast at Shipton’s Camp.
09:00 - 12:00: Optional acclimatization hike to points like the Hausberg Col or explore the surrounding area.
13:00: Lunch at Shipton’s Camp.
15:00 - 17:00: Relax and prepare for the summit attempt.
Accommodation: Shipton’s Camp (Dormitory-style or shared tents)
Estimated Price: $150 - $200 per person
Day 4: Shipton’s Camp to Point Lenana
Elevation: 4,200m (13,780 ft) to 4,985m (16,355 ft)
Distance: 7 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Description:
03:00: Wake up early and start the ascent to Point Lenana.
07:00: Reach Point Lenana and enjoy sunrise views.
08:00: Descend back to Shipton’s Camp for brunch.
12:00: Rest and pack up.
Accommodation: Shipton’s Camp (Dormitory-style or shared tents)
Estimated Price: Included in previous day’s cost
Day 5: Shipton’s Camp to Old Moses Camp
Elevation: 4,200m (13,780 ft) to 3,300m (10,827 ft)
Distance: 14 km
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
Habitat: Moorland to Montane Forest
Description:
07:00: Breakfast at Shipton’s Camp.
08:00: Descend back to Old Moses Camp.
14:00: Arrive at Old Moses Camp. Lunch and relax.
15:00 - 17:00: Explore or relax.
Accommodation: Old Moses Camp (Dormitory-style or shared tents)
Estimated Price: Included in previous day’s cost
Day 6: Old Moses Camp to Sirimon Gate to Nairobi
Elevation: 3,300m (10,827 ft) to 2,600m (8,530 ft)
Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Description:
07:00: Breakfast at Old Moses Camp.
08:00: Descend to Sirimon Gate.
12:00: Arrive at Sirimon Gate, complete exit formalities.
13:00: Transfer back to Nairobi.
Estimated Price: $100 - $150 per person
Day 7 & 8: Buffer Days
Description: These days are reserved as buffer days to accommodate any unexpected delays or to further enjoy the mountain surroundings if the trek goes smoothly.
Estimated Price: $150 - $200 per person per day

Included in the Trek
Transport: Pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Nairobi.
Park Fees: Mount Kenya National Park entrance and climbing fees.
Accommodation: 6 nights in mountain camps.
Meals: All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Guides and Staff: Experienced mountain guides, porters, and cooks.
Climbing Gear: Necessary climbing gear (if arranged with the tour operator).
Not Included
Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, tips, and other personal expenses.
Travel Insurance: Optional but recommended for coverage during your trek.
Optional Extras: Special requests or services not mentioned in the itinerary.