Chogoria Sirimon Route – 6 Days Trek

6 Days, 5 Nights Trek

Summit Mount Kenya VIA Chogoria-Sirimon Route

TREK OVERVIEW

The Chogoria route, which we consider the most beautiful climb to the summit area, is arguably the most famous among hikers due to its rich scenic views. It is the driest route up the mountain and the walk beside the Gorges Valley is truly spectacular. Once on the Sirimon Road, one passes beautiful forest tracks and completes the journey through the mountains.

Best Time to use Chogoria-Sirimon Route

The best time to use the Chogoria-Sirimon route on Mount Kenya is during the dry seasons: January to March and July to October. These months offer clearer weather, dry trails, and better views. The scenic Chogoria ascent combined with the drier Sirimon descent provides the best, safest, and most rewarding trekking experience, ideal for avoiding heavy rain and mud.

Trekking Highlights

Route Map

DAY TO DAY ITINERARY

Depart from Nairobi at 0800hrs, driving through agricultural country up to Chogoria town for lunch. After lunch, we take 4×4 and drive up to the edge of the bamboo forest, where we start our trek through the dense bamboo forest for a distance of 10 km to the Mt. Kenya Bandas.

Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3 hours
Elevation Gain: 950m

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

After breakfast and sorting of porter loads we set off up the mountain at a nice and easy pace . A slightly longer walk via Lake Ellis gives scenic views of Mugi, Ithanguni and the Giants Billiards Table, whilst if we follow the river near road head, upstream for about 3 km, the foreground scenery and flora is particularly beautiful. Lunch on the banks of a stream, then it’s time to cut up the left hand hillside to our camp at about 3,600m, well away from any of the more “touristy” areas.

Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Elevation Gain: 550m

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

imilar early start. Again well off the beaten track to follow a ridge up the mountain for about 3 hours to eventually join the tourist track on the normal Chogoria route at an altitude of about 4,100m. Breath-taking views over the Gorges Valley and back over towards Ithanguni and the Northern Moorlands.
Lunch is served at a small stream crossing, before continuing for a further hour to the Mintos Hut area at 4200m and our night’s rest.
The afternoon is spent relaxing at camp, though a 10-minute walk to the “Temple” is well worth the effort. This is a 150 meters vertical cliff that gets its name from the position visitors often adopt when peering over the edge – they look as if they are praying.

Distance: 12 km

Hiking Time: 4 hours

Elevation Gain: 75om

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

Today we begin our trek ascending up along the foot of huge rock walls.
From the top, we`ll have an excellent view of Mt. Kenya. After ascending for a couple of hours you reach Tooth Col. From here you traverse until you reach the Austrian Hut for dinner and overnight.

Distance: 7 km
Hiking Time: 4 hours
Elevation Gain: 500m

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

Leave at 5.00 am for predawn attempt, climbing for 1 hour across bare rock and scree slopes characteristic of the alpine region up to Pt Lenana – the hiker`s summit, arriving in time to catch the African sunrise. Descend to Shipton’s camp for breakfast and a short rest. After breakfast, we begin a 3-4-hour descent via Mackinder`s valley to Old Moses camp (3,300m). The descent is gentle and it offers ample time to enjoy fascinating scenery which includes the moorlands before reaching the camp.

Distance: 20 km

Hiking Time: 9 hours

Elevation Gain: 285m

Elevation Loss: 1,658m

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

After early morning breakfast, descend and transfer back to Nairobi arriving late afternoon.

Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 2 hours
Elevation Gain: 680m

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

COST BREAKDOWN

Trekking Cost Covers

All entrance fees and Government Taxes
Airport Transfers (upon Arrival and Departure)
Clean, purified drinking water
Fair wages for the mountain crew.
All meals while on the Mountain 
Rescue Fees and all taxes.
Salaries for Porters, Cook, and Guides 
Oxygen Tanks, Pulse Oximeter, and First Aid Kit
Private cook speaking fluent English
Private guide speaking fluent English
Transfers to and from the Accommodation facility.

Does not Cover

Travel insurance
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
International flights (can be booked for you on request)
Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
Accommodation on day of arrival and departure
Visas & vaccinations
Personal expenses eg. Laundry, beverages, etc.
Bed, Sleeping Bag, and walking Poles.
Private Toilet and hot shower tent.

INQUIRIES & FAQ's

Inquiry Space

Your Trekking & Hiking Questions Answered

When is the best time to use the Chogoria-Sirimon Route?

The best time to use the Chogoria-Sirimon route on Mount Kenya is during the dry seasons: January to March and July to October. These months offer clearer weather, dry trails, and better views. The scenic Chogoria ascent combined with the drier Sirimon descent provides the best, safest, and most rewarding trekking experience, ideal for avoiding heavy rain and mud.

Is it possible to arrange a safari after Trekking?

Yes, we can arrange a safari for you after you complete the Mount Meru hike. Tanzania offers incredible safari destinations, such as the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park, which you can easily add to your adventure. Our team will help you customize an itinerary to suit your preferences, allowing you to experience the best of Tanzanian wildlife after your trek. Simply let us know your interests, and we will arrange an unforgettable safari to complete your Hiking experience.

How should I prepare for this Hike?

Prepare with physical training, mental readiness, and gear planning. Cardio, strength exercises, and long hikes with a weighted backpack are recommended. Layered clothing, waterproof gear, trekking poles, and sturdy boots are essential. Stay hydrated, eat well, and learn to recognize high-altitude symptoms.

Can I join Mount Kenya group treks?

Yes, group treks are available. Groups share porters, enjoy guided support, and create a social trekking experience. Group sizes vary; early booking is recommended.