Tour Overview
The Sirimon route approaches Mount Kenya from the drier north-western side, giving good gradual acclimatisation and some of the best scenery on the mountain, including the Mackinder Valley. This itinerary targets Point Lenana (4,985m), the trekking summit reachable without technical climbing gear, and descends via the Chogoria route for travellers who add an extra day - ask us about the Sirimon-Chogoria traverse if you'd like to see both sides of the mountain.
Fit hikers without technical climbing experienceAcclimatised trekkersNairobi-based climbers with limited time
Safari Highlights
Point Lenana summit (4,985m) - Mount Kenya's trekking peak
Gradual acclimatisation profile on the Sirimon side
Afro-alpine scenery including giant lobelias and groundsels
Option to extend into a Sirimon-Chogoria traverse
Day-by-Day Itinerary
D1
Nairobi to Sirimon Gate to Old Moses Camp
Nairobi → Sirimon Gate (2,650m) → Old Moses Camp (3,300m)
Drive from Nairobi to the Sirimon Gate on the north-western side of the mountain, then trek through montane forest and moorland to Old Moses Camp for the first night.
D2
Old Moses to Shipton's Camp
Old Moses Camp (3,300m) → Shipton's Camp (4,200m)
A longer day crossing open moorland with views of the peaks, gaining significant altitude. Arrive at Shipton's Camp in the afternoon with time to rest ahead of the summit attempt.
D3
Shipton's Camp to Point Lenana to Chogoria/Sirimon descent
Shipton's Camp (4,200m) → Point Lenana (4,985m) → descent
A pre-dawn start to reach Point Lenana for sunrise, then descend. Standard itineraries descend back via Sirimon; ask about extending to the Chogoria side for different scenery on the way down.
D4
Descent to gate and transfer to Nairobi
Descent → Nairobi
Continue the descent to the roadhead, then transfer back to Nairobi, typically arriving in the evening.
What's Included
- Transport between Nairobi and the trailhead
- Mount Kenya National Park entry and camping/hut fees
- Qualified mountain guide and porters
- Meals while on the mountain
- Group camping/cooking equipment (personal sleeping bag not included)
What's Excluded
- International or domestic flights
- Personal climbing gear and sleeping bag (available to hire locally)
- Tips for your guide and porters
- Travel and medical/evacuation insurance (strongly recommended for altitude)
- Meals in Nairobi before/after the trek
Accommodation & Safari Vehicle
Accommodation: Mountain huts / camping (bring or hire your own sleeping bag)
Vehicle: 4x4 transfer vehicle to and from the trailhead
Best Time to Visit
The two driest windows are mid-January to end of February and July to October, offering the most stable trekking conditions. The mountain can be climbed outside these windows, but expect wetter trails.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need technical climbing experience?
No - Point Lenana is reached on foot via trekking trails and does not require ropes or technical climbing skills. You do need a reasonable level of fitness and, ideally, some prior high-altitude or multi-day hiking experience.
What is the biggest risk on this route?
Altitude sickness is the main concern given the pace of ascent. We build in a gradual profile on the Sirimon side, but you should discuss altitude medication with your doctor before travelling and tell your guide immediately if you feel unwell.
When is the best season to climb Mount Kenya?
The two dry windows are mid-January to end of February and July to October, which offer more stable weather and drier trails.
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