Chogoria – Point Lenana 7 Days
Embark on the most spectacular and rewarding Mount Kenya adventure via the Chogoria Route, often considered the mountain’s most scenic approach. This 7-day trek offers ample time for acclimatization, a safe ascent, and breathtaking landscapes — from bamboo forests and alpine lakes to the dramatic Gorges Valley and high-altitude tarns.
The “Round the Peaks” circuit gives trekkers ever-changing views of glaciers, cliffs, and rugged summits before reaching Point Lenana (4,985m), the trekkers’ peak of Africa’s second-highest mountain. The descent via the Sirimon Route completes a beautiful traverse, showcasing a completely different side of the mountain.
Accommodation is a mix of mountain huts and campsites, ensuring both comfort and a true wilderness experience.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi – Mount Kenya Bandas (3,000m)
Depart Nairobi at 8:00 am, driving through fertile farmlands to Chogoria town for lunch. Continue by 4×4 through bamboo forest to the park boundary before trekking 10km to Mount Kenya Bandas. Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2: Bandas – Lake Ellis (3,600m) | 3 hrs, 9km, 700m ascent
Hike at an easy pace via Lake Ellis, with stunning views of Mugi, Ithanguni, and Giants Billiards Table. Picnic lunch by a stream before climbing to the campsite by the lake.
Day 3: Lake Ellis – Mintos Camp (4,200m) | 4 hrs, 12km, 600m ascent
Trek along a ridge with panoramic views over the Gorges Valley and Northern Moorlands. Arrive at Mintos Camp for overnight. Optional short hike to “The Temple,” a dramatic 150m cliff.
Day 4: Mintos – Austrian Hut (4,790m) | 4 hrs, 7km, 500m ascent
Climb past towering rock walls to Tooth Col, then traverse to the Austrian Hut, directly beneath the peaks. Dinner and overnight.
Day 5: Austrian Hut – Point Lenana (4,985m) – Mackinder’s Camp (4,300m) | 5 hrs
Begin a pre-dawn summit push to Point Lenana in time for a spectacular African sunrise. Descend to Austrian Hut for breakfast, then continue to Mackinder’s Camp for overnight.
Day 6: Mackinder’s – Shipton’s Camp (4,200m) | 4 hrs
Traverse clockwise past Two Tarn, Nanyuki Tarn, Oblong Tarn, and Hausberg Tarn, enjoying breathtaking alpine scenery before descending to Shipton’s Camp.
Day 7: Shipton’s – Sirimon Gate – Nairobi | 5 hrs, 14km, 900m descent
Descend through Mackinder’s Valley to Old Moses Camp (3,300m), then on to Sirimon Gate. Transfer back to Nairobi, arriving late afternoon.
The following items are included in prices:
- Private return transfers Nairobi – Mount Kenya
- Park entry fees
- All meals on the mountain
- Accommodation (huts or camping)
- Professional guide services
- Porter support
Not Included
- Personal clothing & equipment (see list)
- Tips for guides & porters (10–15% recommended)
- Drinks not included in the package
Other Routes
Highlights of the Chogoria – Point Lenana Route
- Summit Point Lenana (4,985m): The trekkers’ peak of Mount Kenya.
- Scenic Chogoria Ascent: The most beautiful and diverse approach to the peaks.
- “Round the Peaks” Traverse: Unique circuit offering fresh views every day.
- African Sunrise at the Summit: A magical reward above the clouds.
- Gorges Valley & High-Altitude Lakes: Some of Mount Kenya’s most iconic scenery.
- Two Routes in One: Ascend via Chogoria, descend via Sirimon for a complete experience.
Conquer Mount Kenya in 7 days via the stunning Chogoria–Sirimon Traverse. Summit Point Lenana at sunrise, explore dramatic valleys and lakes, and experience the most beautiful trekking route on the mountain.
