Mountain Climbing · Mount Kenya · Kenya
Mount Kenya Sirimon Route — 4 Days
Duration: 4 DaysMountain: 5,199m — Point Lenana (trekking summit)Route: Sirimon RouteBest Time: Jan–Feb / Jul–Sep
Mount Kenya is the second highest mountain in Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site — a dramatic volcanic massif rising from the equatorial plains to a jagged series of rocky peaks. The highest trekking point, Point Lenana (4,985m), is accessible to fit, non-technical trekkers and offers extraordinary views of the dramatic central peaks of Batian and Nelion.
The Sirimon Route is the most gradual and well-graded ascent on Mount Kenya — approaching from the northwest through bamboo forest, open moorland and spectacular Afro-alpine vegetation unique to equatorial African mountains. Giant lobelias, groundsels and heathers create a landscape unlike anywhere else on earth. Wildlife on the mountain includes elephant, buffalo, lion, colobus monkey and the rare bongo antelope.
Drive from Nairobi to the Sirimon Gate (2,650m) — approximately 3.5 hours through the Mount Kenya foothills. Trek to Old Moses Camp for acclimatisation.
The most dramatic day on the mountain. Ascend through open moorland with giant lobelias and groundsels lining the valley. The Mackinder's Valley opens ahead revealing the jagged central peaks. Arrive at Shipton's Camp beneath the dramatic rocky summit towers.
Depart at 3:00am in the dark for the summit push to Point Lenana. The trail climbs through scree and frozen ground to the glacier edge and then to the summit — arriving at dawn for a sunrise view over the roof of Kenya and, on clear days, all the way to Kilimanjaro on the southern horizon. Descend via the Naro Moru route to Met Station.
Drive back to Nairobi. Rest day or JKIA departure.