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Point Lenana Expedition

Summit Mount Kenya at 4,985 Meters

High-Altitude Trekking Adventure via Chogoria Route | No Technical Skills Required

Trip Overview Who should go News & Articles itinerary includes & Excludes Special notes book Starting from
$1350

Trip Overview

Nairobi • Mount Kenya • Point Lenana

Nairobi
Your Mount Kenya Point Lenana expedition begins in Nairobi, Kenya’s vibrant capital and gateway to East Africa’s premier trekking destinations. This is where city energy meets mountain adventure as you prepare for your journey to Africa’s second highest peak. Meet your experienced guides, organize your trekking gear, and feel the anticipation build before heading to the highlands.

Mount Kenya
Mount Kenya rises to 5,199 meters, making it Africa’s second highest mountain and one of the continent’s most dramatic equatorial peaks. Its rugged summits, remnant glaciers, and expansive alpine moorlands create landscapes that blend raw beauty with serene wilderness.

As you ascend through distinct ecological zones, you’ll trek past bamboo forests, encounter giant groundsels and lobelias unique to high altitude East Africa, and potentially spot wildlife including elephants, buffalo, hyenas, and rare bird species found nowhere else on Earth. The Point Lenana route delivers an authentic high altitude trekking experience, combining stunning scenery with genuine mountain adventure and deep connection to nature.

Point Lenana Summit at 4,985 Meters
Point Lenana stands at 4,985 meters as the most accessible of Mount Kenya’s three main peaks and the perfect objective for trekkers seeking high altitude achievement without technical climbing requirements. The journey takes you through constantly changing terrain, from misty montane forests through heath zones to exposed rocky ridges above 4,500 meters.

Reaching the summit rewards you with spectacular sunrise views stretching across glacial valleys, jagged peaks, and the vast Kenyan highlands below. This is the moment that defines the expedition, especially for photographers, adventure seekers, and anyone drawn to the quiet power of alpine environments. Point Lenana offers a genuine 5,000 meter class summit experience accessible to fit trekkers without rock climbing skills.

What to Expect on Your Point Lenana Trek
This Mount Kenya expedition requires no technical climbing skills but demands good physical fitness, steady endurance, and genuine enthusiasm for mountain adventure. You’ll be guided throughout by experienced mountaineers who manage safety, navigation, and expert trail guidance from Chogoria Gate to the summit and back.

Accommodation is in comfortable mountain huts and established camps positioned strategically for acclimatization, providing warm shelter at high altitude with convenient access to each day’s trekking route. Expect long days on the trail, dramatic altitude gain, and the physical challenge that makes summiting Point Lenana deeply rewarding.

Preparing for Your Point Lenana Expedition
Trekking Point Lenana requires solid physical fitness and a mindset ready for genuine mountain adventure. Essential gear includes layered technical clothing for extreme temperature variation, waterproof outer layers, broken-in hiking boots rated for alpine conditions, warm gloves, insulated hat, high SPF sunscreen, adequate hydration system, and a quality camera to document your journey.

Expect pre-dawn summit starts, cold nights at altitude, and rapidly changing mountain weather as integral parts of the authentic trekking experience. Proper acclimatization, consistent hydration, and strong teamwork significantly increase summit success rates and ensure your Point Lenana climb is both safe and deeply memorable.

Itinerary

Depart Nairobi early and drive to Chogoria Gate, a scenic entry point on the eastern side of Mount Kenya. Register at the park, meet guides and porters, and start the trek through Montane Forest Zone. Pass rivers, waterfalls, and giant forest trees along the Ngũgũa and Kamweti paths. Arrive at Forest Camp for lunch and a short rest. Optional evening acclimatization walks. Dinner and overnight at Forest Camp.

Trek through heath and moorland zones, crossing streams and enjoying views of the Gorges Valley. Stop at Lake Michaelson, a small glacial lake, for rest, photos, and snacks. Continue ascending to Mintos Hut, surrounded by rugged moorland and alpine landscapes. Optional short hike nearby for acclimatization. Dinner and overnight at Mintos Hut.

Pre-dawn (2–3 AM) start for the summit push. Trek through alpine desert and rocky terrain, navigating ridges and scree slopes. Reach Point Lenana for sunrise, capturing breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Kenya and surrounding highlands. Descend carefully to Shipton’s Camp for lunch and rest. Optional short acclimatization hikes in the afternoon. Dinner and overnight at Shipton’s Camp.

Descend through the alpine and moorland zones toward Lake Ellis, enjoying stunning landscapes and flora. Continue through heath and forest zones to return to Forest Camp. Relax and recover from the summit ascent. Dinner and overnight at Forest Camp.

Trek the final section to Chogoria Gate, completing the Chogoria loop. Depart for Nairobi and arrive in the afternoon. End of expedition.

Max. Altitude
4,985m Trip Grade
Challenging Best Seasons
Jan–Mar, Jun–Oct Group Size
1-15
Why Choose Point Lenana for Your Mount Kenya Summit

No Technical Skills Required
Point Lenana is Mount Kenya’s only summit accessible without rock climbing equipment, ropes, or mountaineering gear. If you can hike for 6 to 8 hours with a daypack and handle altitude, you can summit Point Lenana with proper preparation and acclimatization.

Genuine High-Altitude Achievement
At 4,985 meters, Point Lenana places you firmly in the 5,000 meter altitude class, offering authentic high-altitude mountaineering experience. You’ll feel the thin air, navigate alpine terrain, and earn a summit that challenges most trekkers while remaining technically accessible.

Chogoria Route Scenic Beauty
The Chogoria approach to Point Lenana is widely considered Mount Kenya’s most beautiful trekking route. Crystal clear alpine lakes, dramatic gorges, unique high-altitude vegetation, and spectacular photographic opportunities make every day on the trail visually stunning.

Perfect Acclimatization Profile
Our 5-day Point Lenana itinerary provides optimal altitude gain, rest days, and acclimatization hikes to maximize summit success rates. This carefully designed schedule significantly reduces altitude sickness risk while preparing your body for the pre-dawn summit push.

Expert Guide Support Throughout
Every Point Lenana expedition includes certified mountain guides with hundreds of Mount Kenya summits, experienced porters who manage camp logistics, and full safety protocols including emergency evacuation procedures and first aid response capabilities.

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Includes
Private transfers Nairobi to Mount Kenya rides. All park and conservation fees fully included. All meals while on the mountain during ascent. Accommodation in mountain huts or camps shared. Professional guiding services included always. Full porter support throughout the climb well. Trek briefing and route planning included now. Emergency first aid and communication support.
Excludes
Personal clothing and climbing equipment gear.
Tips for guides and porters recommended only.
Beverages provided when not on the mountain up. Travel or medical insurance coverage required. Optional activities outside the itinerary only.
Trip Notes

Important Trip Information

Mount Kenya trekking involves variable weather, steep terrain, and changing trail conditions. While every aspect of your Point Lenana expedition is carefully planned, factors such as heavy rain, fog, or trail conditions may require minor route or schedule adjustments. Any changes prioritize your safety and summit success.

Altitude affects individuals differently. Proper acclimatization is essential for reaching Point Lenana successfully. Your guide monitors your pace, hydration, and physical condition throughout the climb. Additional rest days or slower ascent rates may be recommended based on individual acclimatization needs.

If delays occur due to weather, altitude concerns, or other natural factors, additional costs beyond the planned itinerary (such as extra accommodation nights or meals) are the responsibility of participants. Our team provides full logistical support and ensures guides and porters are properly compensated for extended trips.

Mount Kenya conditions change rapidly from warm sunshine to sudden cold, wind, or dense fog. Early morning starts, long trekking days, and basic mountain hut accommodations are integral to the authentic alpine trekking experience.

We recommend building schedule flexibility before and after your expedition, particularly if connecting to international flights, to accommodate potential weather delays or acclimatization needs.

Throughout your Point Lenana trek, we remain committed to providing professional guiding, reliable support systems, and a safe, rewarding, and unforgettable summit experience.

Related Mount Kenya Expeditions: Ready for Technical Climbing?

Advance to Nelion Peak (5,188m) for multi-pitch rock climbing on exposed granite walls, or summit Batian Peak (5,199m), Kenya’s highest point requiring expert mountaineering skills. Both technical expeditions include certified guides, complete climbing equipment, and comprehensive safety support.

More Trekking Routes to Point Lenana

Experience the scenic 6-day Sirimon-Chogoria Traverse featuring alpine lakes and dramatic valleys, or choose the direct 5-day Naro Moru Route for efficient summit access. Compare all Mount Kenya trekking options.

Combine Mountain Trekking with Kenya Safari

Extend your Point Lenana expedition with world-class Kenya safari tours. Witness the Great Migration in Masai Mara, photograph elephants at Amboseli with Kilimanjaro backdrop, or discover unique wildlife in Samburu for the ultimate East African adventure.

Point Lenana Expedition: FAQs

Point Lenana is considered a moderate to challenging high-altitude trek. The route requires no technical climbing skills or equipment, but demands good cardiovascular fitness, the ability to hike 6 to 8 hours daily with a daypack, and mental stamina for a 10 to 14 hour summit day starting at 2 to 3 AM. Altitude is the primary challenge, not technical difficulty.

Previous multi-day trekking experience is helpful but not mandatory. You should be comfortable hiking on uneven terrain, capable of carrying a daypack for extended periods, and familiar with basic mountain safety. First-time high-altitude trekkers successfully summit Point Lenana with proper preparation and fitness training.

Point Lenana summit success rates typically range from 85 to 95% for properly prepared trekkers following our standard 5-day itinerary. Success depends on individual fitness, acclimatization response, weather conditions, and following guide recommendations regarding pace and hydration.

Optimal Point Lenana climbing seasons are January to March and June to October when Mount Kenya weather is most stable. August to September typically offer the driest conditions. Avoid April to May (long rains) and November (short rains) when trails can be muddy and summit visibility reduced.

Daytime temperatures at lower elevations range from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius. At Mintos Hut (4,200m) and higher, expect 5 to 10 degrees Celsius during the day. Summit morning temperatures drop to minus 10 to minus 15 degrees Celsius with significant wind chill. Proper layering is essential.

Our standard 5-day Point Lenana expedition via Chogoria Route costs from $1,350 per person. This includes all park fees, mountain hut accommodation, certified guides, porters, meals on the mountain, transfers from Nairobi, and emergency support. See the full itinerary for complete inclusions.

Yes. Point Lenana serves as excellent acclimatization and preparation for technical Mount Kenya peaks. Many climbers summit Point Lenana first to assess their altitude response, then return for Batian or Nelion expeditions requiring rock climbing skills. We offer combined expedition packages.

You should comfortably hike 6 to 8 hours with a 8 to 10 kg daypack, maintain cardiovascular effort at moderate intensity for extended periods, and recover overnight for consecutive trekking days. Training should include regular cardio exercise, hiking with elevation gain, and ideally some previous altitude exposure.

Mild altitude symptoms (headache, reduced appetite, fatigue) affect approximately 50% of trekkers but usually resolve with rest, hydration, and slower ascent. Our 5-day itinerary with gradual altitude gain significantly reduces severe altitude sickness risk. Guides monitor all climbers and adjust plans if serious symptoms develop.

If altitude, weather, or physical condition prevents summit attempts, your guide prioritizes your safety and may recommend turnaround. Partial refunds are not provided as all logistical costs (permits, guides, porters, accommodation) remain unchanged. However, you still experience the trek’s spectacular scenery and high-altitude mountain environment.

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