The adventure
Experience a thrilling ascent via the Naromoru route, followed by a scenic descent through Chogoria, where dramatic landscapes and breathtaking views unfold at every step. Get Your Technical Climb Plan 7 Days Mount Kenya Climbing Chogoria Route Up, Sirimon Route Down Climb to the top of Mount Kenya via the Sirimon Chogoria route with this gradual 7-day ascent trek, along experienced guides from the Claudious Tours and Safaris team. Reach the top of the second highest peak in Africa! This 7 Days Mount Kenya climbing package via the Chogoria route up and Sirimon route down is the most scenic and best-acclimatized Mount Kenya trekking experience available. Located in Mount Kenya National Park, Mount Kenya is the second highest mountain in Africa (5,199m) and one of the most diverse trekking destinations, featuring glaciers, valleys, lakes, and unique alpine vegetation The Chogoria route is widely regarded as the most beautiful route on Mount Kenya, passing through waterfalls, lakes, and dramatic valleys before joining the summit circuit, while the Sirimon route provides a gradual and comfortable descent 👉 This 7-day itinerary gives you maximum acclimatization, better experience, and highest summit success rate.
Highlights
- Summit Point Lenana (4,985m) – the highest trekking peak
- Explore the most scenic route on Mount Kenya (Chogoria)
- Visit Lake Ellis, Lake Michaelson, and Gorges Valley
- Experience waterfalls including Nithi Falls
- Enjoy sunrise at the summit
- Descend via the Sirimon route for a complete traverse
- Trek through multiple ecological zones from forest to alpine
Day-by-day itinerary
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Day 1
Nairobi – Chogoria Town – Chogoria Bandas (2,950m)
Pick up from your hotel and drive to Chogoria town. After lunch, transfer by 4x4 through dense forest to Chogoria Bandas. Overnight at camp.
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Day 2
Chogoria Bandas – Lake Ellis (3,455m)
Begin your trek with scenic views of Mugi Hill, Ithanguni, and Table Mountain. Enjoy beautiful flora and visit waterfalls. Distance: ~9km Duration: 3–4 hours Overnight at Lake Ellis.
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Day 3
Lake Ellis – Lake Michaelson (3,950m)
Trek through spectacular landscapes towards one of the most scenic camps on Mount Kenya. Enjoy views of Gorges Valley and surrounding cliffs. Overnight at Lake Michaelson.
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Day 4
Lake Michaelson – Simba Col / Mintos Camp (4,300m)
Ascend gradually to higher altitude with stunning views of peaks and valleys. Optional acclimatization hike in the afternoon. Overnight at camp.
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Day 5
Acclimatization Day – Mintos / Summit Circuit
Take a short hike to higher altitude and return to camp. 👉 This improves summit success rate significantly Rest and prepare for summit attempt.
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Day 6
Mintos – Point Lenana – Shipton Camp – Old Moses Camp
Early morning summit attempt starting at 3AM. Reach Point Lenana (4,985m) at sunrise. After the summit: Descend to Shipton Camp for breakfast Continue down via Mackinders Valley Reach Old Moses Camp Duration: 8–10 hours
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Day 7
Old Moses Camp – Sirimon Gate – Nairobi
Descend through rainforest to Sirimon Gate and transfer back to Nairobi via Nanyuki. Duration: 2–3 hours
What's included & excluded
Included
- Professional Mount Kenya guides
- Porters and cook
- Park entry fees for Mount Kenya National Park
- Meals during the trek
- Transport from Nairobi
- 4x4 transfer on Chogoria route
Not included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Tips
- Personal gear
- Visas
Difficulty & fitness level
Moderate
A solid trekking fitness base is needed. Aim for regular walks or cardio 4–6 weeks before departure. No technical skills required.
Best season
January–March & July–October
Frequently asked questions
Is 7 days enough to climb Mount Kenya?
Yes. A 7-day itinerary provides excellent acclimatization and the highest success rate.
Is the Chogoria route the best route?
Yes. It is considered the most scenic route on Mount Kenya.
Can beginners do this climb?
Yes, with good fitness and proper pacing.
What is the success rate?
Very high due to gradual acclimatization.
July to October Do I need technical climbing skills?
No. Point Lenana is a trekking peak and does not require technical climbing.
