Mount Kenya’s true summits, Batian and Nelion, require technical rock climbing, but Point Lenana (4,985m), the third peak, is reachable by trekking alone. This itinerary climbs via the gentler Sirimon route and descends via the more scenic Chogoria route, giving genuinely varied terrain across the mountain.
Detailed Itinerary
Nairobi to Sirimon Gate, Old Moses Camp
A drive from Nairobi to the Sirimon Gate, then a trek through moorland to Old Moses Camp (3,300m), roughly 3–4 hours.
Old Moses Camp to Shipton’s Camp
A trek across the Mackinder Valley to Shipton’s Camp (4,200m), roughly 5–6 hours, with dramatic views of the peaks ahead.
Summit Day: Point Lenana, Descend to Mintos Hut
A pre-dawn departure to reach Point Lenana (4,985m) at sunrise, then a descent via the Chogoria route to Mintos Hut (4,300m).
Mintos Hut to Meru Bandas
A descent through the Gorges Valley and past the Vivienne Falls to Meru Bandas (3,000m), roughly 6–7 hours.
Meru Bandas to Chogoria Gate, Transfer to Nairobi
A final descent through dense forest to the Chogoria Gate, then a drive back to Nairobi.
Departure
Transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your onward flight.
Permits & Costs
| Mount Kenya National Park fees, camping & rescue fees | Included in package price |
| Full mountain crew: guides, cook, porters | Included |
Who This Itinerary Suits
Fit trekkers who want a genuine high-altitude summit experience without the technical rock climbing that Mount Kenya’s true peaks require.
Tour Includes
- All park fees, hut/camping fees & rescue fees
- Full mountain crew: guide, cook, porters
- All meals on the mountain
- Ground transport, Nairobi to/from the mountain
- Pre-trek briefing and gear check
Tour Excludes
- International flights
- Personal trekking gear (available for hire locally)
- Visas
- Tips for the mountain crew
- Travel & high-altitude insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we need climbing experience or equipment?
No — Point Lenana is a trekking summit, requiring no ropes or technical climbing skills, unlike Mount Kenya’s higher rock peaks of Batian and Nelion.
Why climb via Sirimon and descend via Chogoria?
This combination gives the best overall experience — Sirimon’s gentler ascent aids acclimatisation, while Chogoria’s descent passes some of the mountain’s most scenic terrain, including the Gorges Valley and Vivienne Falls.
Ready to Plan This Trip?
Tell us your dates and we’ll confirm your trek team and permits within one business day. Get in touch to start planning.