5 Days Mount Kenya Climbing Expedition – Sirimon Route
- Overview
- Tour Details
Mount Kenya is the second highest peak in Africa at 5,199 metres and one of the continent’s most rewarding climbs. The classic Sirimon Route ascends the drier north-western slope of the mountain, offering a gentler acclimatisation profile and outstanding scenery: bamboo forests, Afro-alpine heath, the famous giant lobelias, and dramatic rock spires above the cloud line.
This five-day expedition aims for Point Lenana (4,985m), the trekking summit, reachable without technical climbing equipment. The true peaks of Batian and Nelion require ropes and full mountaineering experience; Point Lenana is the goal for the vast majority of climbers and provides equally spectacular sunrise views over the glacier-clad face of the main massif.
Kenya’s mountain has fewer crowds than Kilimanjaro, equally striking scenery, and significantly lower cost. This is a serious high-altitude trek but accessible to fit hikers with previous mountain experience. With a lead guide, porters, and full camping support, your only responsibility is putting one foot in front of the other.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi to Old Moses Camp
Drive from Nairobi to Sirimon Gate (3,000m). Trek 3-4 hours through bamboo forest to Old Moses Camp (3,300m).
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Old Moses to Shipton's Camp
Long trekking day across moorland and Mackinder\'s Valley to Shipton\'s Camp (4,200m). 6-7 hours, with views of giant groundsels and lobelias.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Full board
Day 3: Acclimatisation Day
Short acclimatisation walk to Lower Simba Tarn (4,600m) and back. Rest, hydrate, and prepare for summit night.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Full board
Day 4: Summit Point Lenana & Descend
3am start for sunrise summit at Point Lenana (4,985m). Descend the Naro Moru route to Met Station - 10-12 hour day.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Full board
Day 5: Final Descent to Nairobi
Final 2-3 hour walk to Naro Moru Gate. Lunch and transfer back to Nairobi.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
What's Included
- 4 nights mountain accommodation (camping & huts)
- All park entry & camping fees
- Lead mountain guide, cook & porters
- Full board on the mountain
- Drinking water (filtered) on the trek
- All camping equipment (tents, mats, dining gear)
- Nairobi to mountain gate transfers
- Summit certificate
What's Not Included
- International flights
- Pre/post climb hotels in Nairobi
- Sleeping bag (rental available)
- Personal trekking clothing & gear
- Trekking insurance with altitude cover
- Tips for guide & porter team
Additional Notes
Difficulty:
- Strenuous high-altitude trekking, not technical climbing
- Maximum elevation 4,985m at Point Lenana
Best Time:
- January - February & August - October: Driest months
- Avoid: April-May (long rains) and November (short rains)
Preparation:
- Train with weekly hikes 2-3 months in advance
- Ensure trekking insurance covers altitude evacuation
Important Information
- This tour is organized by the tour operator.
- The exact itinerary sequence, details, and pricing of this tour depend on availability.
- If a selected accommodation is fully booked, the operator will recommend a comparable alternative.
- The operator reserves the right to adjust the rates advertised on this website.