Overview
The classic Mount Kenya traverse
Widely regarded as the finest trek on Mount Kenya, this 5-day Sirimon–Chogoria traverse ascends the gradual, scenic Sirimon Route for excellent acclimatisation, summits Point Lenana (4,985m), then descends the spectacular Chogoria Route — past the dramatic Gorges Valley, Lake Michaelson and towering cliffs. Crossing the mountain from one side to the other, you experience the very best of its varied landscapes.
Day by Day
Your 5-day Sirimon & Chogoria itinerary
Nairobi to Sirimon Gate & Old Moses Camp (3,300m)
Drive from Nairobi to the Sirimon Gate and trek through forest to Old Moses Camp (3,300m). Dinner and overnight.
Old Moses to Shipton’s Camp (4,200m)
Trek up the beautiful Mackinder’s Valley to Shipton’s Camp (4,200m) beneath the peaks, with time to acclimatise.
Summit Point Lenana (4,985m) & descend to Mintos Camp
A pre-dawn ascent to Point Lenana (4,985m) for sunrise, then descend the Chogoria side to Mintos Camp (4,300m), overlooking beautiful mountain tarns.
Mintos Camp to Chogoria (via the Gorges Valley)
A stunning descent past Lake Michaelson and the dramatic Gorges Valley, through moorland and forest to the Chogoria roadhead. Dinner and overnight.
Descend to Chogoria Gate & return to Nairobi
Final walk and drive to Chogoria Gate, then the road journey back to Nairobi, arriving in the evening.
What to expect
What’s included & excluded
Included
- Return road transport between Nairobi and the trailhead
- Professional English-speaking mountain guide
- Cook and porters to carry group equipment
- Mount Kenya National Park entry, camping & hut fees
- Mountain huts or tented camping as per the route
- All meals while on the mountain
- Drinking water on the trek
Not included
- International flights, visa & travel insurance
- Personal climbing gear & sleeping bag (hire available)
- Tips for your mountain guide, cook and porters
- Personal items, snacks & extra drinks
- Anything not listed under “Included”
Why book with us
Why travellers choose Nairobi Tour Promoters
Mountain experts
A Nairobi-based team guiding Mount Kenya & Kilimanjaro climbs for years.
Safe, strong crew
Experienced guides, cooks & porters focused on your health and a safe summit.
All-inclusive pricing
Park, hut & camping fees, meals and crew included — no hidden costs.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
How high is Mount Kenya and which summit will I reach?
Mount Kenya rises to 5,199m at Batian, its highest peak. Our treks target Point Lenana at 4,985m — the third-highest peak and the goal for trekkers. The higher peaks of Batian and Nelion require technical rock climbing.
Why is the Sirimon-Chogoria traverse the best route?
Ascending Sirimon gives gentle acclimatisation, while descending Chogoria takes you past Mount Kenya’s most spectacular scenery — the Gorges Valley, Lake Michaelson and towering cliffs — so you experience two completely different sides of the mountain.
When is the best time to climb Mount Kenya?
The driest, clearest conditions are from January to March and June to October. These are the most popular months, though the mountain can be climbed year-round.