Chogoria route Mount Kenya trek through Gorges Valley with hikers ascending to Point Lenana

Chogoria-Sirimon 4 Day Mount Kenya Trek

Point Lenana Summit via Mount Kenya’s Most Scenic Route

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$1100

Trip Overview
4-Day Mount Kenya Chogoria-Sirimon Traverse to Point Lenana
Nairobi – Your Mount Kenya Trek Starting Point


Your Chogoria-Sirimon Mount Kenya adventure begins in Nairobi, Kenya’s vibrant capital and the gateway to Mount Kenya National Park. This is where you meet your certified mountain guides, organize your trekking gear, and prepare for one of Mount Kenya’s most scenic cross-mountain journeys. The city’s modern energy quickly gives way to the wilderness that awaits on Africa’s second-highest mountain, just a few hours’ drive away.

Mount Kenya – Africa’s Premier Trekking Destination


Mount Kenya, standing at 5,199 meters (17,057 feet), is Africa’s second-highest mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This extinct volcano offers some of the most striking alpine scenery on the continent and is home to unique afro-alpine ecosystems found nowhere else on Earth. The Mount Kenya landscape shifts dramatically as you ascend: from lush montane forests filled with colobus monkeys and elephants, through bamboo zones, into wide moorlands dotted with giant lobelia and groundsels, before rising into rugged rocky ridges and glacial valleys. The Chogoria-Sirimon traverse showcases this incredible biodiversity, taking you across the mountain from the dramatic eastern valleys to the gentler northern descent. Wildlife such as buffalo, rock hyrax, and rare mountain birds are often encountered along the slopes, making this not just a trekking adventure but a true wilderness experience on Mount Kenya.

Chogoria Route – Mount Kenya’s Most Scenic Approach


The Chogoria Route is widely regarded as the most beautiful and dramatic approach to Mount Kenya, and for good reason. As the driest side of the mountain, the Chogoria route offers more reliable weather conditions and exceptional visibility for photographers and nature lovers. This Mount Kenya trekking route leads through breathtaking landscapes: open moorlands, towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and the iconic Gorges Valley; one of Mount Kenya’s most impressive natural features. Along the Chogoria trail, you’ll encounter unique landmarks like Mugi Hill, Ithanguni, and the Giant’s Billiards Table; geological formations found only in this part of Africa. Campsites along the Chogoria route, including Lake Ellis and Mintos Camp, offer peaceful and remote spots perfect for acclimatization while providing incredible views of Mount Kenya’s peaks. The Chogoria approach is less crowded than other Mount Kenya routes, giving trekkers a more intimate mountain experience. This is the route serious Mount Kenya trekkers choose for unforgettable scenery and photographic opportunities.

Sirimon Route – Your Scenic Mount Kenya Descent


YYour descent on the Sirimon Route completes this spectacular east-to-north Mount Kenya traverse. The Sirimon route is known for its gentle gradient, wide valleys, and calm forest trails, making it an ideal descent path after summiting Point Lenana. The Sirimon descent through the Mackinder Valley reveals sweeping highland views, unique rock formations, and distinctive Mount Kenya alpine vegetation. As you descend from high moorlands through the forest zone, you’ll experience the mountain’s changing ecosystems in reverse, offering fresh perspectives on Mount Kenya’s natural beauty. The Sirimon route provides a comfortable and scenic way to end your Mount Kenya trekking expedition, with opportunities to spot wildlife including colobus monkeys and bushbuck in the lower forests.

Point Lenana (4,985m) – Mount Kenya’s Highest Trekking 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 most Mount Kenya trekking expeditions. The Point Lenana summit push on the Chogoria-Sirimon route begins before dawn, with trekkers ascending in darkness to reach the peak in time for one of Africa’s most spectacular sunrises. From the Point Lenana summit, you’re rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views: the dramatic Gorges Valley spread below, the jagged technical peaks of Batian and Nelion rising beside you, and the vast Kenyan plains stretching to the horizon. Standing on Point Lenana at sunrise, with the first light illuminating Mount Kenya’s glaciers and rock spires, is often described as the most memorable moment of the Chogoria-Sirimon traverse. This non-technical summit makes Mount Kenya’s high-altitude experience accessible to fit trekkers without mountaineering skills.

What to Expect on the 4-Day Chogoria-Sirimon Mount Kenya Trek


This four-day Mount Kenya trek is non-technical but physically demanding, with long days of walking at high altitude across varied terrain. You can expect:

Dramatic Mount Kenya Scenery: From the Gorges Valley’s cliffs to Lake Ellis’s tranquil waters, from Mintos Camp’s panoramic views to Point Lenana’s sunrise summit; every day brings new spectacular landscapes.

High-Altitude Trekking: You’ll ascend from 2,000m to 4,985m, requiring proper acclimatization and pacing. Our experienced Mount Kenya guides monitor your altitude adjustment throughout the trek.

Diverse Ecosystems: Experience Mount Kenya’s unique zones: montane forest, bamboo belt, moorland, and alpine desert; all in four days.

Professional Support: Certified mountain guides handle all navigation, pacing, safety, and emergency protocols. Porters carry camping equipment so you trek with only a daypack.

Mountain Hut & Camp Accommodation: Nights are spent in mountain huts and camps strategically located for acclimatization and spectacular views.

Early Morning Summit: The Point Lenana summit attempt begins around 3:00 AM for sunrise at the peak. This Chogoria – Sirimon route combines adventure with accessibility; challenging enough to be rewarding, yet achievable for fit trekkers attempting their first Mount Kenya summit.

Preparing for Your Chogoria-Sirimon Mount Kenya Trek


Successfully completing the 4-day Chogoria-Sirimon Mount Kenya trek to Point Lenana requires good physical fitness, proper gear, and mental preparation.

Physical Fitness Requirements: – Ability to walk 5-8 hours daily with a light daypack – Good cardiovascular endurance (regular hiking or cardio training recommended) – Comfort with steep ascents and rocky terrain – No technical climbing skills required for Point Lenana

Essential Mount Kenya Trekking Gear: – Warm layered clothing (temperatures drop below freezing at night) – Quality waterproof rain jacket and pants – Sturdy hiking boots (broken in before the trek) – Warm sleeping bag rated to -10°C – Insulated gloves and warm hat – Trekking poles (highly recommended for descent) – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and headlamp – 2-3 liter water capacity

Altitude Preparation: Weather on Mount Kenya changes quickly at high altitude. Be prepared for cold mornings, potentially wet conditions, and strong winds near the summit. The Chogoria-Sirimon itinerary is designed for optimal acclimatization, but staying hydrated, eating well, and following your guide’s pacing advice are essential for Point Lenana summit success.

Best Time for Chogoria-Sirimon Trek: The optimal seasons for this Mount Kenya route are January-March and June-October, when the Chogoria side is driest and Point Lenana summit conditions are most favorable.

Itinerary

Your Chogoria-Sirimon Mount Kenya adventure begins with an early morning departure from Nairobi, traveling through Kenya’s rich agricultural highlands as you approach the eastern slopes of Mount Kenya. You reach Chogoria Gate or Mount Kenya Bandas by mid-morning for trek registration and lunch.

In the afternoon, begin your Mount Kenya trek toward Lake Ellis, following a scenic trail with views of Mugi Hill, Ithanguni, and the famous Giant’s Billiards Table; unique geological formations found only on Mount Kenya’s Chogoria route.

The trail follows a gentle river valley with gradually increasing elevation, allowing your body to begin acclimatizing to Mount Kenya’s altitude. You arrive at Lake Ellis Campsite at approximately 3,450 meters for dinner and overnight stay, surrounded by peaceful alpine scene

Trekking Time: 3-4 hours

Distance: ~10 km

Altitude Gain: ~800m

Terrain: Forest trails, gentle slopes

Accommodation: Lake Ellis Camp.

After breakfast at Lake Ellis, begin a steady Mount Kenya ascent along an exposed ridge offering spectacular panoramic views of the moorlands. The trail climbs gradually for approximately three hours until rejoining the main Chogoria trekking route at around 4,100 meters. Pause for lunch near a mountain stream, then continue for about an hour to reach Mintos Camp at 4,200 meters. Mintos Camp is considered one of Mount Kenya’s most spectacularly located campsites, perched on a ridge with sweeping views over the dramatic Gorges Valley.

In the afternoon, take an optional acclimatization walk to The Temple; a striking 150-meter vertical cliff where trekkers can safely lean forward to peer into the Gorges Valley’s depths. This short hike aids altitude adjustment while showcasing Mount Kenya’s most impressive geological features.

Trekking Time: 6-7 hours Distance: ~14 km

Altitude Gain: ~750m Terrain: Moorland, rocky trails

Accommodation: Mintos Camp

Highlight: Gorges Valley viewpoint, The Temple cliff

Summit Day! Your Point Lenana summit attempt begins at 3:00 AM with a pre-dawn start from Mintos Camp. Ascend steadily through the darkness, following your guide’s headlamp through rocky terrain and scree slopes toward Mount Kenya’s highest trekking peak.

The three-hour ascent brings you to the Point Lenana summit (4,985m) just in time for sunrise; one of Africa’s most spectacular mountain experiences. From the peak, witness breathtaking panoramic views: the jagged technical peaks of Batian and Nelion rising beside you, the vast Gorges Valley stretching below, and the Kenyan lowlands fading into the distance.

After summit photos and celebration, descend to Shipton Camp (4,200m) for a well-deserved hot breakfast. Continue your Mount Kenya descent through the scenic Mackinder Valley, following the Sirimon route for 4-5 hours until reaching Old Moses Camp at 3,300 meters.

As you descend, watch the landscape transform from high alpine zone through moorlands and into the forest zone. Dinner and overnight at Old Moses Camp.

Trekking Time: 9-11 hours total (3 hours ascent to Point Lenana, 6-8 hours descent) Distance: ~18 km

Altitude: 4,200m → 4,985m → 3,300m

Terrain: Scree slopes, rocky trails, moorland, forest

Accommodation: Old Moses Camp

Highlight: Point Lenana sunrise summit, Mackinder Valley descent.

Enjoy a relaxed final morning on Mount Kenya before beginning your descent along the beautiful Sirimon forest trail toward Sirimon Gate. This gentle 2-3 hour descent takes you through lush montane forest where you might spot colobus monkeys, bushbuck, and diverse bird species.

At Sirimon Gate (2,650m), your vehicle awaits to transfer you back to Nairobi. Reflect on your Chogoria-Sirimon Mount Kenya achievement during the scenic drive through Kenya’s highlands. You arrive in Nairobi by late afternoon, concluding your spectacular 4-day cross-mountain Point Lenana trek.

Trekking Time: 2-3 hours

Distance: ~9 km

Altitude Loss: ~650m

Terrain: Forest trails, easy descent

End Point: Nairobi arrival late afternoon

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

The Chogoria-Sirimon 4-day Mount Kenya trek to Point Lenana is ideal for adventurers seeking a moderately challenging, scenically spectacular, and highly rewarding high-altitude trekking experience without technical climbing requirements.

This Mount Kenya route is especially suitable for:

Fit and Active Trekkers
If you enjoy multi-day hiking, outdoor adventures, and moderate physical challenges, this Mount Kenya trek is perfect. Daily trekking times range from 3-11 hours, so good endurance and cardiovascular fitness are important for Point Lenana summit success.

First-Time High-Altitude Adventurers
Point Lenana at 4,985m is achievable without technical climbing skills or mountaineering equipment. The Chogoria-Sirimon route’s acclimatization profile makes this Mount Kenya summit accessible to trekkers attempting their first high-altitude peak.

Landscape and Photography Enthusiasts
The Chogoria route is considered Mount Kenya’s most scenic approach. If you’re passionate about dramatic mountain landscapes, this trek delivers: Gorges Valley cliffs, The Temple viewpoint, Lake Ellis serenity, Mintos Camp panoramas, and Point Lenana’s sunrise views.

Nature and Wildlife Lovers
Experience Mount Kenya’s unique ecosystems: montane forest with elephants and colobus monkeys, giant lobelia moorlands, afro-alpine zones, and rare mountain birds. This cross-mountain traverse showcases Mount Kenya’s extraordinary biodiversity.

Adventure Photographers
From sunrise on Point Lenana to the Gorges Valley’s dramatic cliffs, this Mount Kenya route offers exceptional photographic opportunities at every stage.

Solo Travelers, Couples, and Small Groups
Whether trekking alone or with companions, the Chogoria-Sirimon route provides professional guides, safe mountain environment, and friendly camp atmosphere.

Travelers Seeking Less Crowded Routes
The Chogoria approach is quieter than Mount Kenya’s more popular routes, offering a peaceful wilderness experience with outstanding viewpoints.

Budget-Conscious Trekkers
At $1,100, the 4-day Chogoria-Sirimon trek offers excellent value for a full Mount Kenya cross-mountain experience including Point Lenana summit, all meals, guides, porters, and park fees.

Why the Chogoria-Sirimon Route is Mount Kenya’s Best 4-Day Trek

Most Scenic Mount Kenya Route
The Chogoria-Sirimon traverse is consistently ranked as Mount Kenya’s most beautiful trekking route. The dramatic Gorges Valley, Lake Ellis, The Temple cliff, and sunrise from Point Lenana create an unforgettable mountain experience.

Optimal 4-Day Itinerary
This route offers the best balance of acclimatization, scenery, and summit success for a 4-day Mount Kenya trek. The gradual altitude profile maximizes Point Lenana summit success while minimizing altitude sickness risk.

Full Cross-Mountain Experience
Unlike out-and-back routes, the Chogoria-Sirimon traverse shows you Mount Kenya’s contrasting faces: the dramatic eastern cliffs and valleys ascending via Chogoria, the gentle northern forests descending via Sirimon.

Less Crowded Than Other Routes
While the Naro Moru route sees heavy traffic, Chogoria remains peaceful and uncrowded, offering a true wilderness Mount Kenya experience.

Professional Local Guides
Our certified Mount Kenya guides know the Chogoria-Sirimon route intimately, with hundreds of successful Point Lenana summits. They handle all technical aspects while sharing deep knowledge of Mount Kenya’s ecology and geology.

Excellent Value
At $1,100 all-inclusive (park fees, guides, porters, meals, accommodation), this 4-day Mount Kenya trek offers exceptional value for a summit experience on Africa’s second-highest mountain.

Chogoria-Sirimon Trek Difficulty & Fitness Level

Difficulty Rating: Moderate to Challenging

The 4-day Chogoria-Sirimon Mount Kenya trek to Point Lenana is rated moderate to challenging due to altitude and daily trekking distances, not technical difficulty.

What Makes This Trek Challenging:

  • Altitude: Summit day reaches 4,985m (16,355 feet)
  • Long Days: Some trekking days last 9-11 hours
  • Terrain: Rocky trails, scree slopes, steep sections
  • Weather: Cold nights, potential rain, strong winds near summit
  • Summit Start: 3:00 AM wake-up for Point Lenana

What Makes This Trek Achievable:

  • No Technical Skills Required: Point Lenana needs no ropes, harnesses, or climbing equipment
  • Gradual Acclimatization: The 4-day itinerary allows proper altitude adjustment
  • Professional Support: Guides set appropriate pace and monitor your condition
  • Porter Support: You carry only daypack while porters handle camping equipment

Recommended Fitness Level:

  • Ability to hike 6-8 hours on consecutive days
  • Comfortable walking uphill with a light pack
  • Regular exercise routine (hiking, running, cycling) recommended
  • No previous high-altitude or trekking experience required, but helpful

Altitude Sickness Prevention:
The Chogoria-Sirimon route’s acclimatization profile (ascending gradually, sleeping lower) follows best practices for altitude adjustment. Staying hydrated, eating well, and communicating with your guide are essential.

Mount Kenya Summit Success Rate:
With proper preparation and good weather, Point Lenana summit success rates on the Chogoria-Sirimon route exceed 85%..

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Includes
Private return transfers from Nairobi to Mount Kenya. All park and conservation fees included fully. All meals while on the mountain. Accommodation in mountain huts or camps (as applicable). Professional guiding services with certified expert guides. Full porter support 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 when not on the mountain included. Travel or medical insurance. Optional activities outside the standard itinerary.
Trip Notes

Important Information for Your Chogoria-Sirimon Mount Kenya Trek

Understanding Mount Kenya’s mountain environment and being prepared for variable conditions ensures a safe and enjoyable trekking experience. Please review these important notes about the Chogoria-Sirimon route and Point Lenana summit attempt.

Mountain Weather and Trail Conditions
Mount Kenya’s weather can change quickly as you move through the forest, moorland, and high alpine zones. Rain, mist, or strong winds may require adjustments to the daily schedule or route. Any changes will always be made with your safety and comfort in mind.

Altitude and Acclimatization
Although Point Lenana, at 4,985 meters, is a trekking peak, altitude affects everyone differently. The Chogoria to Sirimon traverse allows for gradual acclimatization, but your guide may adjust your pace, rest breaks, or hydration based on how your body responds.

Route Characteristics
The ascent through Chogoria offers remote wilderness, dramatic valleys, and fewer crowds. The descent through Sirimon features gentler trails and beautiful montane forest. Expect early mornings, long walking days, and simple but scenic campsites.

Possible Delays
If delays occur due to weather, altitude, or natural factors, any extra expenses outside the planned itinerary, such as additional meals or accommodation, will be the responsibility of the traveler. Our team will help arrange alternatives and provide full support throughout.

Accommodation and Facilities
Camps are basic but comfortable and suited for high-altitude trekking. Nights can be very cold, and facilities are shared. Porters will carry camping gear and food so you can focus on the hike.

Wildlife and Environmental Care
You may encounter wildlife such as buffalo, hyrax, and various bird species. Please follow your guide’s instructions and observe Leave No Trace principles to protect the fragile mountain environment.

Travel Timing
We recommend keeping some flexibility before and after your trek, especially if you have international flights, to allow for any unexpected schedule changes.

With the right preparation and the support of experienced guides, you can expect a safe, memorable, and incredibly scenic crossing of Mount Kenya.

Chogoria-Sirimon Mount Kenya Trek FAQs

A: Yes, 4 days is sufficient for fit trekkers to reach Point Lenana summit via the Chogoria-Sirimon route. However, the 5-day version offers better acclimatization and higher summit success rates. If you have time flexibility, consider the 5-day Chogoria-Sirimon trek.

A: With good weather and proper acclimatization, the Point Lenana summit success rate on the Chogoria-Sirimon route exceeds 85%. Our experienced guides maximize your chances by monitoring your altitude adjustment and adjusting pace as needed.

A: Yes, if you’re reasonably fit and enjoy hiking. The Chogoria-Sirimon Mount Kenya trek requires no technical climbing skills. However, you should be comfortable with long hiking days, basic camping, and high altitude. Previous multi-day trekking experience is helpful but not required.

A: The best months for the Chogoria-Sirimon Mount Kenya trek are January-March and June-October. The Chogoria side is the driest Mount Kenya route, making these months particularly reliable for good weather and Point Lenana summit attempts.

A: Temperatures at Point Lenana (4,985m) can drop to -10°C (14°F) at night and during the pre-dawn summit attempt. Mintos Camp and Shipton Camp also experience freezing temperatures. Warm sleeping bags and proper layering are essential for Mount Kenya trekking comfort.

The Chogoria-Sirimon route offers Mount Kenya’s most dramatic scenery (Gorges Valley, The Temple cliff), fewer crowds than Naro Moru, reliable dry conditions on Chogoria side, and a satisfying cross-mountain traverse showing contrasting landscapes.

Yes, travel insurance including high-altitude trekking coverage (up to 5,000m) is mandatory for the Chogoria-Sirimon Mount Kenya trek. Ensure your policy covers emergency evacuation from remote mountain areas.

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Ready for your Mount Kenya adventure? Explore our other Mount Kenya trekking routes, consider a 5-day Chogoria-Sirimon trek for better acclimatization, or combine your trek with a Kenya safari experience.