The Chogoria-Sirimon route is one of the most scenic and less-traveled paths to Mount Kenya’s Point Lenana. This itinerary combines the breathtaking Chogoria ascent with the gentle descent of the Sirimon route, showcasing diverse landscapes, stunning views, and unique wildlife habitats. Below is a fully detailed itinerary for a 6-day trek.
Review the main itinerary below:
Arrive in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, where you’ll meet your guide and have a pre-climb briefing. Accommodations: Stay overnight in Nairobi at a designated hotel. Activities: Orientation, gear check, and briefing about the climb and safety precautions.
Drive: Approximately 4-5 hours from Nairobi to Chogoria town, followed by a 4x4 drive up to the trailhead. Hike: Begin trekking to the Mount Meru Bandas. Highlights: Experience the lush forest and bamboo zones, with chances to spot buffalo, elephants, and monkeys. Distance: Approx. 10 km. Elevation Gain: 2,950m (starting at 1,500m). Accommodations: Mount Meru Bandas (basic mountain cabins).
Description: After breakfast, hike towards Lake Ellis, a beautiful lake surrounded by moorland and rugged terrain. Highlights: Stunning views of Lake Ellis, heath, and moorland zones. Distance: Approx. 10 km. Elevation Gain: 3,500m. Accommodations: Camp near Lake Ellis. Activities: Relax at Lake Ellis, acclimatization walk, and scenic photography.
Description: Today’s hike takes you from Lake Ellis up to Mintos Hut, passing through beautiful valleys, including the Gorges Valley. Highlights: Gorges Valley, Vivienne Falls, and panoramic views of the peaks. Distance: Approx. 12 km. Elevation Gain: 4,200m. Accommodations: Overnight at Mintos Hut. Activities: Acclimatization, photography, and a short hike to explore the surrounding area.
Summit Day! Description: Start the summit attempt around 3:00 AM to reach Point Lenana at sunrise, then descend through the Sirimon route. Highlights: Spectacular sunrise at Point Lenana, the breathtaking view of Mount Kilimanjaro (on clear days), and panoramic vistas of surrounding landscapes. Summit Elevation: 4,985m. Descend: To Old Moses Camp via Mackinder’s Valley. Distance: Approx. 14 km from Mintos Hut to the summit and down to Old Moses Camp. Accommodations: Overnight at Old Moses Camp.
Description: After breakfast, enjoy a gentle descent through the montane forest to Sirimon Gate. Highlights: Beautiful forest scenery, birdwatching, and the chance to spot Colobus monkeys and other wildlife. Distance: Approx. 9 km. Return: Drive back to Nairobi from Sirimon Gate (3-4 hours). Accommodations: Return to your hotel in Nairobi or continue with post-trek plans.
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