Sirimon route Mount Kenya trekking through Mackinder Valley with hikers ascending leisurely 6 day trek

Sirimon-Chogoria 6 Day Mount Kenya Trek

Summit Point Lenana with Maximum Acclimatization and Leisurely Pace

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Trip Overview

6-Day Mount Kenya Sirimon-Chogoria Traverse to Point Lenana with Acclimatization Day
Nairobi: Your Mount Kenya Trek Starting Point

Your Sirimon-Chogoria Mount Kenya journey begins in Nairobi, Kenya’s vibrant capital and the gateway to Mount Kenya National Park. This is where you meet your experienced mountain guides, conduct comprehensive equipment reviews, and receive detailed briefings for one of Mount Kenya’s most rewarding trekking routes. The city’s excellent facilities and convenient location provide the perfect starting point for your extended adventure to Africa’s second-highest mountain, just a few hours’ drive away.

Mount Kenya: Africa’s Second Highest Mountain and UNESCO World Heritage Site

Mount Kenya, rising to 5,199 meters (17,057 feet), is Africa’s second-highest mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its outstanding natural beauty, remarkable ecological diversity, and unique alpine ecosystems. This ancient extinct volcano features dramatic landscapes including jagged peaks, ancient glaciers, expansive moorlands, dense bamboo zones, and lush montane forests.

The mountain supports incredible biodiversity with wildlife such as buffalo, bushbuck, rock hyrax, various antelope species, colobus monkeys, and numerous endemic alpine birds inhabiting its varied elevation zones. The 6-day Sirimon-Chogoria traverse offers a complete cross-mountain experience from Mount Kenya’s peaceful northern valleys to its dramatic eastern cliffs, showcasing the full range of the mountain’s climatic zones and ecological diversity.

The extended 6-day itinerary with dedicated acclimatization day provides the ultimate Mount Kenya trekking experience: maximum altitude adjustment time, leisurely comfortable pacing, highest Point Lenana summit success rates, spectacular Chogoria descent scenery, and the most relaxed enjoyable trek schedule available.

Sirimon Route: Mount Kenya’s Gentlest Approach for Perfect Acclimatization

The Sirimon Route is Mount Kenya’s most gradual and comfortable trekking approach, renowned for gentle gradients, wide valleys, beautiful montane forests, and excellent acclimatization profile. As your ascent route on this 6-day trek, Sirimon provides the ultimate in safe, comfortable altitude adjustment.

This Mount Kenya trekking route leads through spectacular wilderness: ancient montane forests alive with colobus monkeys and diverse birdlife, expansive moorlands dotted with giant lobelias and groundsels, and the stunning Mackinder Valley with its sweeping highland vistas and unique rock formations. Along the Sirimon trail, you’ll pass comfortable mountain camps at Old Moses (3,300m) and Shipton (4,200m), perfectly positioned for gradual acclimatization.

The Sirimon approach provides outstanding views of Mount Kenya’s main peaks including the dramatic walls of Batian and Nelion, while offering peaceful trails with less traffic than western routes. The gentle elevation gain allows your body maximum time to adjust to high altitude.

The 6-day itinerary with dedicated acclimatization day at Shipton Camp gives you the best possible preparation for Point Lenana summit, resulting in the highest success rates of any Mount Kenya trekking route.

Chogoria Route: Your Spectacular Mount Kenya Descent Reward

The descent via Chogoria Route rewards your successful Point Lenana summit with Mount Kenya’s most spectacular and dramatic landscapes. The Chogoria route is universally recognized as Mount Kenya’s most beautiful trail, offering scenery that makes the descent a highlight equal to the summit itself.

This legendary Mount Kenya descent reveals breathtaking natural wonders at every turn: the dramatic Gorges Valley with its sheer vertical cliffs, pristine alpine lakes including stunning Lake Michaelson and tranquil Lake Ellis, cascading waterfalls, and unique geological formations such as the Temple Cliffs, Mugi Hill, and the famous Giant’s Billiards Table found nowhere else on Earth.

Strategic camps at Mintos (4,200m) perched on dramatic ridges overlooking Gorges Valley, Lake Ellis (3,450m) beside pristine alpine waters, and comfortable Chogoria Bandas provide scenic resting spots surrounded by Mount Kenya’s most photogenic landscapes. As the driest side of the mountain, Chogoria offers more reliable weather conditions and exceptional visibility perfect for photography and nature appreciation.

The Sirimon-Chogoria combination creates the perfect Mount Kenya experience: gentle comfortable acclimatization on ascent, spectacular dramatic scenery on descent when you can fully enjoy the views without altitude stress.

Point Lenana (4,985m): Mount Kenya’s Highest Non-Technical Summit

Point Lenana, at 4,985 meters (16,355 feet), is Mount Kenya’s third-highest peak and the highest point accessible to trekkers without technical climbing equipment. This makes Point Lenana the primary summit goal for the vast majority of Mount Kenya trekking expeditions.

The Point Lenana summit push on the 6-day Sirimon-Chogoria route begins before dawn from Shipton Camp, with trekkers ascending through darkness to reach the peak in time for one of Africa’s most spectacular mountain sunrises. The extended 6-day schedule with dedicated acclimatization day results in the highest Point Lenana summit success rates of any Mount Kenya route, typically exceeding 95%.

From Point Lenana’s summit, you’re rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views: the jagged technical peaks of Batian and Nelion rising dramatically beside you, ancient glaciers including Lewis Glacier glistening in golden morning light, the vast Gorges Valley spreading dramatically below to the east, endless moorlands stretching in all directions, and the Kenyan lowlands fading into the distant horizon.

Standing on Point Lenana at sunrise, watching the first rays illuminate Mount Kenya’s glaciers and towering rock spires after your perfectly paced acclimatization, represents the ultimate highlight and crowning achievement of your 6-day traverse. This non-technical summit makes Mount Kenya’s high-altitude experience accessible to fit, determined trekkers without mountaineering skills.

What to Expect on the 6-Day Sirimon-Chogoria Mount Kenya Trek

This six-day Mount Kenya trek is non-technical but physically rewarding, with comfortable pacing, leisurely daily distances, and maximum acclimatization time. You can expect:

Maximum Acclimatization for Highest Summit Success: The 6-day schedule with dedicated acclimatization day at Shipton Camp provides the ultimate altitude adjustment, resulting in Point Lenana summit success rates exceeding 95%, the highest of any Mount Kenya trekking route.

Leisurely Comfortable Pacing: Unlike rushed 4-day or even 5-day routes, the 6-day schedule allows relaxed daily distances, extra rest time, comfortable trekking hours, and maximum enjoyment of Mount Kenya’s beauty without time pressure.

Dedicated Acclimatization Day: Day 3 at Shipton Camp is devoted entirely to acclimatization walks, rest, and altitude adjustment. This crucial extra day dramatically improves summit success while making the entire experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Complete Mount Kenya Traverse Experience: Unlike out-and-back routes, this traverse shows you Mount Kenya’s contrasting ecosystems: peaceful northern forests and valleys ascending via Sirimon, dramatic eastern cliffs and lakes descending via Chogoria. Two completely different mountain experiences in one trek.

Spectacular Chogoria Descent as Your Reward: After summiting Point Lenana with confidence thanks to perfect acclimatization, descend through Mount Kenya’s most beautiful scenery. The Gorges Valley, alpine lakes, Temple Cliffs, and waterfalls transform the descent into an unforgettable highlight.

Diverse Mount Kenya Ecosystems: Experience the full range of Mount Kenya’s vegetation zones: montane forest with wildlife, bamboo belt, moorlands with giant lobelias and groundsels, high-altitude alpine zones, and glacial areas.

Professional Mountain Support: Certified Mount Kenya guides handle all navigation, pacing, safety protocols, and emergency procedures. Professional porters carry camping equipment so you trek with only a light daypack.

Strategic Camp Locations: Nights are spent at carefully selected camps positioned for optimal acclimatization and scenery: Old Moses (3,300m), Shipton (4,200m) for two nights including acclimatization day, Mintos (4,200m) for post-summit recovery, Lake Ellis (3,450m), and comfortable Chogoria Bandas.

Pre-Dawn Summit Experience: The Point Lenana summit attempt begins around 3:00 AM from Shipton Camp for sunrise at the peak, one of Africa’s most memorable mountain moments.

This Sirimon-Chogoria 6-day route delivers Mount Kenya’s ultimate trekking experience: maximum acclimatization, highest summit success, leisurely comfortable pacing, spectacular scenery, and the most rewarding Point Lenana summit achievement possible.

Preparing for Your Sirimon-Chogoria 6-Day Mount Kenya Trek

Successfully completing the 6-day Sirimon-Chogoria Mount Kenya trek to Point Lenana requires good physical fitness, proper gear, and positive mental attitude.

Physical Fitness Requirements:

  • Ability to walk 5 to 8 hours daily with a light daypack (easier than shorter routes due to leisurely pacing)
  • Good cardiovascular endurance (regular hiking or cardio training recommended for 2 to 3 months before trek)
  • Comfort with moderate uphill walking, rocky terrain, and high altitude
  • No technical climbing skills required for Point Lenana

Essential Mount Kenya Trekking Gear:

  • Warm layered clothing (temperatures drop well below freezing at night above 4,000m)
  • Quality waterproof rain jacket and waterproof pants
  • Sturdy waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support (broken in before the trek)
  • Warm sleeping bag rated to minus 10 degrees Celsius or colder
  • Insulated waterproof gloves and warm hat with ear coverage
  • Trekking poles (highly recommended for balance and knee support)
  • Sunscreen (high SPF), quality sunglasses, and headlamp with extra batteries
  • 2 to 3 liter water capacity (hydration system or water bottles)

Altitude Preparation: Weather on Mount Kenya changes rapidly at high altitude. Be prepared for cold mornings, potentially wet conditions, and strong winds near Point Lenana summit. The Sirimon-Chogoria 6-day itinerary is specifically designed for maximum acclimatization with gentle gradual ascent, dedicated acclimatization day, and extended timeline, making this the easiest Mount Kenya route for altitude adjustment. However, staying well hydrated (3 to 4 liters daily), eating regular meals even without appetite, and following your guide’s pacing advice remain essential.

Best Time for Sirimon-Chogoria 6-Day Trek: The optimal seasons for this Mount Kenya route are January to March and June to October when weather is most stable, Point Lenana summit conditions are most favorable, and the Chogoria descent offers spectacular visibility.

Itinerary

Your Sirimon-Chogoria Mount Kenya adventure begins with an early morning departure from Nairobi, traveling north through Kenya’s fertile central highlands as you approach the northern slopes of Mount Kenya. The scenic drive takes approximately 3 to 4 hours through beautiful countryside.

You reach Sirimon Gate at 2,650 meters by mid-morning for park registration, comprehensive equipment check, and final briefing with your Mount Kenya guides. Begin your trek through lush montane forest alive with bird calls and the possibility of wildlife sightings including colobus monkeys, bushbuck, and occasionally buffalo in lower sections.

The trail gradually ascends through bamboo zones and into moorland vegetation. The gentle 4 to 5 hour hike allows your body to begin acclimatizing to Mount Kenya’s altitude while enjoying the peaceful forest environment and gradual introduction to mountain trekking.

Arrive at Old Moses Camp at 3,300 meters in the afternoon for dinner and overnight stay. Old Moses is nestled in peaceful moorland scenery with views of Mount Kenya’s peaks in the distance, providing an excellent gentle first night on the mountain.

Trekking Time: 4 to 5 hours Distance: approximately 9 km Altitude Gain: approximately 650m Terrain: Forest trails, bamboo zones, gentle to moderate slopes Accommodation: Old Moses Camp

After an early breakfast at Old Moses, begin your Mount Kenya ascent through expansive alpine moorlands dotted with giant lobelias and groundsels. The trail crosses rocky ridges and wide valleys with increasingly stunning views of Mount Kenya’s main peaks.

Trek through the magnificent Mackinder Valley, one of Mount Kenya’s most beautiful high-altitude valleys. The landscape becomes more dramatic as you gain elevation, with unique rock formations, expansive moorlands, and the jagged walls of Batian and Nelion peaks rising impressively before you.

This is a longer trekking day with steady altitude gain, but the gradual Sirimon profile continues to provide excellent comfortable acclimatization. The trail offers numerous opportunities to pause, appreciate the changing vegetation, photograph the unique afro-alpine ecosystem, and spot wildlife like rock hyrax.

Arrive at Shipton Camp (4,200m) in the afternoon after 5 to 6 hours of trekking. Shipton Camp sits in a spectacular location beneath the dramatic southern face of Batian and Nelion peaks. This will be your home for two nights, allowing perfect acclimatization.

Settle in, enjoy dinner, and rest well. Tomorrow is your crucial acclimatization day. Overnight at Shipton Camp.

Trekking Time: 5 to 6 hours Distance: approximately 14 km Altitude Gain: approximately 900m Terrain: Moorland, rocky trails, Mackinder Valley Accommodation: Shipton Camp (first of two nights) Highlight: Mackinder Valley scenery, spectacular Batian and Nelion views

This is your dedicated acclimatization day, the key to high Point Lenana summit success. Unlike rushed 4-day or 5-day routes, the 6-day schedule allows this crucial rest and acclimatization time that dramatically improves your summit chances and overall comfort.

After a relaxed breakfast at Shipton Camp, take optional acclimatization walks to nearby high points. Popular options include:

Hiking toward Kami Hut: A short walk to higher elevation (approximately 4,400m) following the principle of “climb high, sleep low” for optimal acclimatization.

Walking to Oblong Tarn: A beautiful small alpine lake with spectacular views, perfect for gentle acclimatization hiking and photography.

Exploring around Shipton Camp: Simply walking around the area, taking photos of Batian and Nelion’s dramatic faces, and resting.

The day is designed to be gentle and restorative. Spend time hydrating well (drink 3 to 4 liters), eating regular meals, resting in your sleeping bag, and allowing your body to fully adjust to 4,200 meters altitude.

This acclimatization day is what makes the 6-day Sirimon-Chogoria route so successful. By spending two nights at Shipton Camp, your body gets maximum time to produce more red blood cells, adjust to lower oxygen levels, and prepare for tomorrow’s Point Lenana summit attempt.

Enjoy another dinner and second overnight at Shipton Camp, fully acclimatized and ready for your summit push.

Trekking Time: 2 to 4 hours optional acclimatization walks Distance: variable depending on chosen walks Altitude: remain at 4,200m (acclimatization walks may reach 4,400m) Accommodation: Shipton Camp (second night) Highlight: Critical acclimatization day, Oblong Tarn, Batian and Nelion photography, rest and preparation

Summit Day! After two nights at Shipton Camp and perfect acclimatization, your Point Lenana summit attempt begins at 3:00 AM with pre-dawn wake-up and light breakfast. Depart in darkness, following your guide’s headlamp across rocky terrain and steep scree slopes toward Mount Kenya’s highest trekking peak.

Thanks to your excellent acclimatization from yesterday’s rest day, the 2 to 3 hour ascent feels more manageable and comfortable than on faster routes. Trek steadily through the pre-dawn darkness, navigating carefully across scree and rocky sections. As dawn breaks, the landscape slowly reveals itself in stunning detail.

Reach Point Lenana summit (4,985m) at sunrise to witness one of Africa’s most spectacular mountain experiences. From the peak, enjoy breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views: the jagged technical peaks of Batian and Nelion rising beside you, Lewis Glacier glistening in golden morning light, the dramatic Gorges Valley spreading to the east, endless moorlands in all directions, and the Kenyan plains fading into the distance. With your perfect acclimatization, you can fully appreciate and enjoy the summit experience. Take summit photos and celebrate your incredible achievement.

Begin your descent heading east toward the Chogoria side of Mount Kenya. The route reveals completely new spectacular scenery with every turn, transitioning from the western slopes you ascended to the dramatic eastern valleys.

Descend through stunning alpine landscape for 5 to 7 hours until reaching Mintos Camp (4,200m). Mintos Camp is perched on a dramatic ridge with sweeping views over the breathtaking Gorges Valley, one of Mount Kenya’s most impressive natural features.

Arrive at camp after a full 9 to 11 hour trekking day, feeling strong thanks to your excellent acclimatization. Enjoy a well-deserved hot meal with spectacular sunset views over the Gorges Valley. Overnight at Mintos Camp.

Trekking Time: 9 to 11 hours total (2 to 3 hours ascent to Point Lenana, 6 to 8 hours descent) Distance: approximately 14 km Altitude: 4,200m to 4,985m to 4,200m Terrain: Scree slopes, rocky summit sections, dramatic Chogoria descent terrain Accommodation: Mintos Camp (ridgetop camp overlooking Gorges Valley) Highlight: Point Lenana sunrise summit with perfect acclimatization, first spectacular Chogoria scenery, Gorges Valley panoramic views

After breakfast with spectacular Gorges Valley views, continue your Mount Kenya descent through some of the most beautiful scenery on the entire mountain. Today’s trek showcases the Chogoria route at its absolute finest.

The trail passes dramatic Temple Cliffs where you can safely peer into the Gorges Valley depths, stunning Lake Michaelson surrounded by towering rocky cliffs, cascading waterfalls plunging through gorges, and expansive highland scenery. Every turn reveals new spectacular viewpoints that make you grateful for bringing your camera.

Continue descending to tranquil Lake Ellis (3,450m), a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by sweeping moorlands. This is one of Mount Kenya’s most photogenic locations, perfect for photos, rest breaks, and simply absorbing the serene beauty.

From Lake Ellis, the trail continues through open moorlands gradually transitioning toward forest zones. The 6 to 7 hour descent takes you through constantly changing spectacular scenery.

Arrive at comfortable Chogoria Bandas (3,000m) in the late afternoon. After days of high-altitude camping, the bandas provide welcome comfort with better facilities, warmer temperatures, and easier breathing at lower elevation. Rest, recover, shower if available, and celebrate your successful Point Lenana summit. Dinner and overnight at Chogoria Bandas.

Trekking Time: 6 to 7 hours Distance: approximately 16 km Altitude Loss: approximately 1,200m Terrain: Gorges Valley, Temple Cliffs, alpine lakes, moorlands transitioning to forest Accommodation: Chogoria Bandas (mountain lodge with better facilities) Highlight: Temple Cliffs viewpoint, Lake Michaelson beauty, Lake Ellis tranquility, continuous spectacular Chogoria scenery, comfortable bandas

Enjoy a leisurely final morning on Mount Kenya with breakfast at Chogoria Bandas. Today offers flexible descent options depending on your energy level, time preferences, and group consensus.

Option 1: Walk the final section through beautiful forest trails (3 to 4 hours). Pass more waterfalls, unique rock formations including final views of the Giant’s Billiards Table, and gradually transition through bamboo and forest zones. This gentle walk provides a satisfying physical conclusion to your trek.

Option 2: Arrange vehicle transport from Chogoria Bandas directly to Chogoria Gate, saving time and energy after six rewarding days of mountain trekking.

Reach Chogoria Gate where your Nairobi transfer vehicle will be waiting. Complete park exit formalities, celebrate with your guides and porters, and begin the scenic drive back to Nairobi through Kenya’s eastern highlands. The 4 to 5 hour transfer brings you back to Nairobi by late afternoon or early evening.

Your unforgettable 6-day Sirimon-Chogoria Mount Kenya traverse concludes in Nairobi. You’ve experienced Mount Kenya’s most complete trekking adventure: gentle comfortable acclimatization, dedicated rest day, highest Point Lenana summit success rates, spectacular Chogoria descent, and the ultimate satisfaction of conquering Africa’s second-highest mountain at a perfect, leisurely pace.

Trekking Time: 3 to 4 hours (if walking) or vehicle transfer Distance: approximately 16 km (if walking) Altitude Loss: approximately 1,350m Terrain: Forest trails, bamboo zones, gentle descent (if walking) End Point: Nairobi arrival late afternoon or early evening

Max. Altitude
4,985m Trip Grade
Intermediate Best Seasons
Jan–Mar, Jun–Oct Group Size
1–15 trekkers
Who Should Trek the Sirimon-Chogoria 6-Day Mount Kenya Route

The Sirimon-Chogoria 6-day Mount Kenya trek to Point Lenana is ideal for trekkers seeking the highest possible summit success rate, maximum comfort and acclimatization, and the most leisurely enjoyable Mount Kenya experience.

This Mount Kenya route is especially suitable for:

Trekkers Prioritizing Point Lenana Summit Success Above All The dedicated acclimatization day and extended 6-day schedule result in Point Lenana summit success rates exceeding 95%, the highest of any Mount Kenya route. If reaching the summit is your primary goal and you can spare an extra day, this route virtually guarantees success.

First-Time High-Altitude Trekkers Wanting Maximum Safety The gentle Sirimon ascent combined with dedicated acclimatization day provides the safest, most comfortable introduction to high-altitude trekking. Perfect for those attempting their first summit above 4,500 meters.

Older or Less Experienced Trekkers Seeking Comfortable Pacing The leisurely 6-day schedule with extra rest day allows comfortable daily distances, ample recovery time, and reduced physical strain compared to faster routes. Ideal for trekkers over 50 or those preferring relaxed pacing.

Trekkers Wanting to Fully Enjoy Mount Kenya Without Rush Unlike time-pressured shorter routes, the 6-day schedule allows you to truly appreciate Mount Kenya’s beauty, take photography breaks, enjoy camp time, and experience the mountain without constant hurry.

People Concerned About Altitude Sickness The dedicated acclimatization day and gradual ascent minimize altitude sickness risk. If you’re worried about how your body will handle high altitude, this route provides maximum safety margin.

Landscape and Photography Enthusiasts The leisurely pace allows time for photography at optimal lighting, appreciation of diverse ecosystems from two different Mount Kenya sides, and full enjoyment of spectacular Chogoria descent scenery.

Solo Travelers, Couples, and Groups Wanting Relaxed Experience Whether trekking alone or with companions, the 6-day Sirimon-Chogoria route provides professional guides, safe comfortable environment, ample rest time, and the most enjoyable social trek atmosphere.

Trekkers Who Can Afford Extra Day for Best Experience The additional cost of $210 versus 5-day routes provides massive value: highest summit success, dedicated rest day, maximum comfort, and the ultimate Mount Kenya trekking experience.

Anyone Wanting Mount Kenya’s Premier Trekking Experience This route represents the gold standard of Mount Kenya trekking: maximum acclimatization, highest success rates, perfect pacing, spectacular scenery, complete traverse, and ultimate satisfaction.

Why the Sirimon-Chogoria 6-Day Route is Mount Kenya’s Premier Trek

Highest Point Lenana Summit Success Rate Available The dedicated acclimatization day at Shipton Camp results in summit success rates exceeding 95%, significantly higher than any other Mount Kenya route. If reaching Point Lenana is your goal, this route provides the best possible chance.

Dedicated Acclimatization Day Makes All the Difference Spending two nights at Shipton Camp (4,200m) with a full rest day between allows your body maximum time to adjust, produce red blood cells, and prepare for summit. This is the key to exceptional success rates and comfortable summit day.

Most Leisurely Comfortable Pacing Available Daily distances are relaxed, rest time is ample, and time pressure is minimal. Enjoy Mount Kenya without constant rushing, allowing full appreciation of scenery, wildlife, and the mountain experience.

Perfect for First-Time High-Altitude Trekkers The gentle Sirimon ascent, dedicated rest day, and extended timeline make this the safest, most accessible route for attempting your first summit above 4,500 meters. Build confidence with proven success.

Spectacular Chogoria Descent Reward After your successful summit with perfect acclimatization, descend through Mount Kenya’s most beautiful scenery fully able to enjoy it. The Gorges Valley, Temple Cliffs, alpine lakes, and waterfalls provide unforgettable reward.

Complete North-to-East Mountain Traverse Experience Mount Kenya’s full ecosystem diversity: peaceful Mackinder Valley and northern highlands on ascent, dramatic Gorges Valley and eastern lakes on descent. Two completely different mountain perspectives in one trek.

Maximum Time for Photography and Appreciation The leisurely schedule allows time for photography at optimal lighting, wildlife observation, ecosystem appreciation, and simply enjoying being on Mount Kenya without rush.

Professional Guides with Extended Route Expertise Our certified Mount Kenya guides know the 6-day Sirimon-Chogoria route intimately, understand the importance of the acclimatization day, and have guided hundreds of successful Point Lenana summits on this premium route.

Best Value for Ultimate Mount Kenya Experience At $1,530 all-inclusive (park fees, guides, porters, meals, accommodation, Nairobi transfers), the 6-day Sirimon-Chogoria trek offers exceptional value for Mount Kenya’s premier trekking experience with highest success rates.

Sirimon-Chogoria 6-Day Trek Difficulty and Fitness Level

Difficulty Rating: Moderate (Easier than shorter routes)

The 6-day Sirimon-Chogoria Mount Kenya trek to Point Lenana is rated moderate, actually easier than 4-day or 5-day routes due to leisurely pacing and superior acclimatization.

What Makes This Trek Easier Than Shorter Routes:

  • Extended 6-Day Schedule: More time means shorter daily distances and less physical strain
  • Dedicated Acclimatization Day: Full rest day dramatically improves comfort and reduces altitude stress
  • Gentlest Ascent Profile: Sirimon provides Mount Kenya’s most gradual elevation gain
  • Maximum Altitude Adjustment: Superior acclimatization means feeling better throughout trek
  • Leisurely Pacing: No rushing, ample rest breaks, comfortable trekking hours

What Still Makes This Moderately Challenging:

  • Altitude: Summit day still reaches 4,985m (16,355 feet)
  • Long Summit Day: 9 to 11 hours on Day 4 including summit push
  • Terrain: Rocky trails, scree slopes on summit approach
  • Weather: Cold nights, potential rain, strong winds near Point Lenana
  • Summit Start: 3:00 AM wake-up for pre-dawn attempt

Recommended Fitness Level:

  • Ability to hike 5 to 8 hours on consecutive days (less demanding than shorter routes)
  • Comfortable walking uphill with light pack
  • Regular exercise routine (hiking, running, cycling) helpful but less critical than for faster routes
  • No previous high-altitude or technical trekking experience required

Why This Route Has Easier Acclimatization: The 6-day schedule with dedicated rest day provides Mount Kenya’s gentlest altitude curve. Two nights at Shipton Camp allows full adjustment to 4,200m before attempting 4,985m, following best practices for high-altitude trekking.

Mount Kenya Summit Success Rate: With proper preparation and favorable weather, Point Lenana summit success rates on the 6-day Sirimon-Chogoria route exceed 95%, the highest of any Mount Kenya trekking route. The dedicated acclimatization day is the key factor in this exceptional success rate.

Sirimon-Chogoria 6-Day Mount Kenya Trek: FAQs

Absolutely. The additional $210 versus 5-day routes provides exceptional value: highest Point Lenana summit success rates (95% plus versus 90%), dedicated acclimatization day reducing altitude stress, leisurely comfortable pacing, maximum enjoyment of Mount Kenya, and the ultimate trekking experience. Most trekkers consider it the best investment.

Spending two nights at Shipton Camp (4,200m) allows your body maximum time to adjust to altitude, produce more red blood cells, and prepare for the 4,985m summit. This dramatically improves summit success rates, reduces altitude sickness risk, and makes the entire trek more comfortable and enjoyable.

With good weather and proper preparation, Point Lenana summit success rates on the 6-day Sirimon-Chogoria route exceed 95%, the highest of any Mount Kenya trekking route. The dedicated acclimatization day and gentle Sirimon ascent are the key factors in this exceptional success rate.

Yes, absolutely. The leisurely 6-day schedule with dedicated rest day makes this Mount Kenya’s most accessible route for older trekkers (50 plus), less experienced hikers, or anyone preferring comfortable relaxed pacing. Many trekkers over 60 successfully summit Point Lenana on this route.

The 6-day route adds a dedicated acclimatization day at Shipton Camp, dramatically improving summit success rates (95% plus versus 90%), reducing altitude stress, providing more rest time, and making the overall experience significantly more comfortable and enjoyable.

The best months are January to March and June to October when weather is most stable, Point Lenana summit conditions are optimal, and the Chogoria descent offers spectacular clear visibility for photography and scenery appreciation.

Day 3 is devoted to rest, optional gentle acclimatization walks to nearby high points like Oblong Tarn, hydration, eating well, and allowing your body to fully adjust to 4,200m altitude. This crucial day prepares you perfectly for summit day.

Yes. The gentle Sirimon ascent, dedicated acclimatization day, extended timeline, and highest summit success rates make this the safest and most accessible Mount Kenya route for attempting your first summit above 4,500 meters.

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance including high-altitude trekking coverage (up to 5,000m), emergency evacuation, and medical expenses is mandatory for the Sirimon-Chogoria Mount Kenya trek.

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Includes
Private return transfers from Nairobi to Mount Kenya. All park and conservation fees are fully included. All meals while on the mountain. Accommodation in mountain huts or camps (as applicable). Professional guiding services with experienced local guides. Full porter support provided throughout the climb. Trek briefing and route planning. Emergency first aid and communication support.
Excludes
Personal clothing and climbing equipment .
Tips for guides and porters (10–15% recommended).
Beverages are available when not on the mountain. Travel or medical insurance. Optional activities outside the standard itinerary.

Trip Notes

Important Information for Your Sirimon-Chogoria 6-Day Mount Kenya Trek

Understanding the extended timeline, acclimatization day benefits, and being prepared for mountain conditions ensures a safe and successful trekking experience. Please review these important notes about the 6-day Sirimon-Chogoria route and Point Lenana summit attempt.

Mountain Weather and Terrain
Weather on Mount Kenya can change quickly as you move from forest to moorland and into the high alpine zone. Rain, mist, or strong winds may require small adjustments to the day’s schedule, and your guides will always prioritize safety and comfort.

Altitude Considerations
Although the trek is non-technical, it reaches elevations close to 5,000 meters. Everyone responds differently to altitude. Your guides will monitor how you are feeling and adjust the pace, hydration, and rest periods to support safe acclimatization.

Route Character
The Sirimon side provides a gentle and steady ascent that helps the body adjust well. The Chogoria side is known for its dramatic scenery, with lakes, cliffs, and valleys that create one of the most rewarding descents on the mountain.

Possible Delays
Weather or natural events may cause slight changes in timing. Any additional accommodation or meals outside the planned itinerary are at the traveler’s cost, but our team will support and coordinate all necessary arrangements.

Accommodation
Expect simple but comfortable mountain huts and camps. Nights can be very cold, mornings start early, and shared spaces are part of the mountain experience.

Environmental and Wildlife Care
Wildlife sightings may include buffalo, hyrax, antelope, or unique alpine birds. To protect the mountain environment, it is essential to follow Leave No Trace principles and listen to guide instructions.

Travel Timing
It is wise to keep some flexibility before and after the trek, especially if planning international connections or tight travel schedules.

This 6-day Sirimon–Chogoria traverse offers a safe, well-supported, and truly memorable journey across some of Mount Kenya’s most diverse and spectacular landscapes.

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