Sirimon Route Up – Chogoria Route Down
Trekwise Adventures
The Sirimon to Chogoria traverse is the ultimate Mount Kenya trekking experience, combining a gradual ascent for excellent acclimatization with the most scenic descent on the mountain. This 6-day itinerary allows a slower pace, improved summit success, and more time to explore alpine valleys, glacial lakes, and breathtaking landscapes.
Ideal for trekkers who want a comfortable, well-acclimatized adventure with maximum scenery and photography opportunities.
Trip Overview
Route: Sirimon (Ascend) – Chogoria (Descend)
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Summit: Point Lenana (4,985m)
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Best Season: January to March and June to October
Day 1: Nairobi / Nanyuki – Sirimon Gate – Old Moses Camp
Altitude: 2,650m to 3,300m
Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 3 to 4 hours
Depart Nairobi or meet in Nanyuki town and transfer to Sirimon Gate for registration and trek briefing. Begin hiking through montane forest rich in birdlife and wildlife before entering the moorland zone.
Arrive at Old Moses Camp in the afternoon for rest and acclimatization.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Old Moses Camp
Day 2: Old Moses Camp – Shipton Camp
Altitude: 3,300m to 4,200m
Distance: 14 km
Hiking Time: 6 to 7 hours
Trek through Mackinders Valley surrounded by dramatic alpine scenery and towering peaks. Enjoy views of Batian and Nelion peaks and unique high-altitude vegetation.
Arrive at Shipton Camp for dinner and overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Shipton Camp
Day 3: Acclimatization Day – Shipton Area Exploration
Altitude: Up to approx. 4,600m
Hiking Time: 3 to 5 hours
A relaxed acclimatization day designed to improve summit success. Take guided hikes toward nearby ridges and viewpoints while enjoying close-up views of Mount Kenya’s main peaks.
Return to camp for rest and hydration.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Shipton Camp
Day 4: Shipton Camp – Austrian Hut – Summit Point Lenana – Mintos Camp
Altitude: 4,200m to 4,985m to 4,300m
Hiking Time: 10 to 12 hours
Early midnight start for the summit attempt via Austrian Hut. Reach Point Lenana at sunrise and enjoy spectacular panoramic views across Kenya.
After summit celebrations, descend via the scenic Chogoria Route passing alpine lakes, dramatic cliffs, and views into the famous Gorges Valley before arriving at Mintos Camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Mintos Camp
Day 5: Mintos Camp – Lake Ellis Camp
Altitude: 4,300m to 3,450m
Hiking Time: 4 to 5 hours
Descend gradually through beautiful alpine terrain toward Lake Ellis. Enjoy peaceful landscapes, wildlife sightings, and excellent photography opportunities.
Arrive at Lake Ellis Camp for relaxation and overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lake Ellis Camp
Day 6: Lake Ellis – Chogoria Gate – Departure
Altitude: 3,450m to 2,950m
Hiking Time: 3 to 4 hours plus transfer
After breakfast, descend through moorland and bamboo forest to Chogoria Gate.
Meet the Trekwise Adventures vehicle for transfer back to Chogoria town, Nanyuki, or Nairobi, marking the end of your Mount Kenya adventure.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Trekwise Adventures
Experience Mount Kenya through responsible trekking, expert guidance, and unforgettable mountain journeys.
