Mount Kenya – 4 Days Sirimon-Sirimon Route Easy Pace

This is the most popular and gentle route in Mount Kenya.  Approaches the peaks from the Northwest and offers very gradual change in altitude with a clear view of the peaks all the way. Unless preferred, camping is not necessary as accommodation is available in mountain huts throughout the trip.   

Day 1: Drive from Nairobi at 0800hrs to arrive Nanyuki at 1100hrs.  Then drive to Sirimon Park gate (2600m).  On completion of park entry formalities, begin a 3-4 hour hike through forest.  Ascend 700m through the bamboo, rosewood and heather zones to Old Moses camp.  The forest and bamboo are home to hundreds of buffaloes, elephants, bushbucks and a plethora of bird species.  Dinner and overnight at Old Moses Camp (3300m).

Day 2: A long day leading to the base of the high peaks.  Today’s trek is largely through the moorlands and the Mackinder Valley, with good views of the main peaks and a brief stopover for picnic lunch.  Total walking time is approx. 7 hours gaining 900m in altitude.  Dinner and Overnight at Shipton’s Hut (4200m).

Day 3: Pre-dawn attempt of the summit starts at 0300hrs and you hike for about 3 hours up steep scree slopes and across rugged rocks up to Pt. Lenana (4985), the hikers’ summit. Then descend down to Shipton’s Hut for breakfast and lunch.  Then rest for an hour and proceed descending to Old Moses Camp (3300m) 4-5 hours.  Dinner and overnight at the Old Moses Hut.

Day 4: Descend gradually for 2 hours to Sirimon Park gate through the Sirimon forest. Be picked up by your vehicles and drive to your destinations.