Mount Kenya Ascent
7 Days Starting and ending in Nairobi, Kenya
Visiting: Nairobi, Mt Kenya National Park, Mount Kenya
Tour operator:
Tour code:
MKA
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 15
Trip Styles:
Active, Adventure Tours, Camping, Walking Hiking and Trekking
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
A Mt Kenya trek is one of Africa’s most rewarding alpine experiences, offering dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity and far fewer crowds than Kilimanjaro.
Rising to 4,985m (16,355ft), Point Lenana is the highest trekking peak on Mount Kenya and an achievable challenge for fit hikers seeking something more remote, more varied, and more immersive than the region’s better-known climbs. With towering cliffs, glacial tarns, and Afro-alpine flora, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed massif is often considered the most visually stunning of Africa’s ice-capped mountains.
Our Mt Kenya trek begins in Nairobi and takes the scenic Chogoria approach, renowned for its alpine lakes and excellent acclimatisation. After a night in the forest Bandas near the park gate, we begin the ascent via Lake Ellis and Lake Michaelson — two of the mountain’s most picturesque high camps — before entering the alpine zone at Simba Tarn. The pre-dawn summit of Point Lenana is a highlight of the journey, with panoramic views over the jagged peaks of Batian and Nelion, and Kilimanjaro visible in the far distance on clear days.
The descent via the Sirimon Route completes a spectacular mountain traverse, offering contrasting views and a peaceful final walk through the Mackinder Valley.
With unique wildlife sightings, varied terrain, and some of the most dramatic scenery on the continent, this Mt Kenya trek is ideal for those seeking a quieter, more scenic alternative to Africa’s more commercial climbs.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Join Nairobi
Location: Nairobi
Accommodation: Hotel
On arrival in Nairobi, please make your way to the group hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure in Kenya's capital city.
Day 2 : Drive to Mt Kenya National Park
Location: Mt Kenya National Park
Accommodation Name: Bandas
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we head to Chogoria Village (approx. 4-5 hours drive). In the afternoon you will ascend the steep and rutted track to the Bandas (cottages) in woodland near the Chogoria gate (3,017m) of the Mt Kenya National Park. We will stay here for the night. Our gear will be transported by Land Rovers while we acclimatise with our first walk at altitude (approx. 1 hour).
Day 3 : Ascend Mt Kenya via Lake Ellis (3500m)
Location: Mount Kenya
Accommodation Name: camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The flora and fauna surrounding the Bandas is prolific, with the possibility of seeing game in the surrounding forest (Elephant, Buffalo, Antelope, Colobus Monkey, Augur Buzzard & Verreaux's Eagle). As we walk, the forest gradually drops away and we enter a high moorland zone. En route we ascend nearby Mugi Hill (3600m) to help with acclimatisation before arriving to camp. Lake Ellis (3500m), where we camp tonight, is a peaceful spot with good views of the main peaks and we arrive in time for lunch. (approx. 6 hrs)
Day 4 : Trek to Lake Michaelson (3900m)
Location: Mount Kenya
Accommodation Name: camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The initial trek away from the lake ascends gentle moorland to attain a ridge that eventually joins the main Chogoria route at its best viewpoint. After enjoying views of Vivienne Falls and the Gorges Valley we descend to the little visited Lake Michaelson (3,900m) and possibly the most beautiful campsite on the walk. Overhead tower the cliffs of the Temple while Tacazze Sunbirds flit amongst the giant Groundsel and Lobelia and Hyraxes hop around in the rocks.
(approx. 6-8 hours)
Day 5 : Trek to Simba Tarn (4560m)
Location: Mount Kenya
Accommodation Name: camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The trek now enters the Alpine Zone - after quite a boggy start to the walk the walking surface soon becomes scree. You will soon reach Simba Tarn at 4560m, in time for a late lunch. An afternoon walk will assist with acclimatisation.
(approx. 4-6 hrs)
Day 6 : Ascend Point Lenana (4985m), descend via Mackinders Valley to Liki North Camp (3900m)
Location: Mount Kenya
Accommodation Name: camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After a hot drink you will leave at 3:30 am for the steep ascent (2 - 2.5 hrs) of Point Lenana (4,985m) in time for sunrise. Although the climb is straightforward, the final section is hard work at this altitude. From the summit it is often possible to see Mt Kilimanjaro 320km away as well as the nearby climbing peaks of Mt Kenya; Nelion and Batian which should be bathed in golden sunlight at this time of the morning. We descend back to Simba Tarn for a well-earned cooked breakfast, and continue our descent via the Mackinder Valley to Shipton's Camp before joining the Sirimon Route to Liki North where we camp. The walk today is long and exhausting and will challenge even the fittest of walkers. However the thrill of standing on the roof of Kenya, will be sure to make the effort worthwhile. (approx. 9-10 hours walking)
Day 7 : Descend Sirimon Valley to Old Moses Camp (3400m), transfer to Nairobi where the trip concludes
Location: Nairobi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast we continue descending for approximately 2 hours to Old Moses camp 3400m and the tarmac roadhead at the forest line. Here we bid farewell to the porters and crew and drive down through the lush forest belt to the Park Gate. After completing the exit formalities our transport will take us on the 5 hour drive back to Nairobi, where the trip concludes on arrival at the hotel from where we started. We farewell our Kenyan crew here. (Note: arrival at the hotel in Nairobi is around 16:00hrs. We recommend an overnight stay in Nairobi before commencing onward travel. If you need to depart today, please do not book onward flights departing before 20:00hrs)
What's Included
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6 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 5 dinners
The tour includes 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 5 dinners.
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1 night in 3 star hotel on a twinshare basis
Accommodation for 1 night in a 3-star hotel on a twinshare basis is included.
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5 nights fully supported camping on a twinshare tent basis
The tour includes 5 nights of fully supported camping on a twinshare tent basis.
What's Not Included
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International flights
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arrival and departure transfers
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Sleeping bags & sleeping mats
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Restaurant meals in Nairobi and meals not mentioned in the itinerary as included.
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Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
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Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc
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Tips
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Airport and departure taxes
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Visa
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Travel Insurance
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Additional transport or accommodation required due to any emergency situation. (This would be covered by an adequate insurance)
Accommodation
Enjoy a comfortable stay with 1 night in a 3-star hotel on a twin-share basis, and 5 nights of fully supported camping in twin-share tents, providing a blend of comfort and adventure amidst the stunning landscapes of Mount Kenya.What You Carry
In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (depending on the altitude, location and weather), a rain jacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip balm etc. Porters carry all group gear and your main luggage in your own trek pack/ duffle bag.Grading
As with all our Challenging programs, we expect people to be regular outdoors people, enjoying aerobic sport around four or five times a week over some period of time. Preferably this has been a long term interest but if not, you have set a program of fitness preparation with at least three months lead in time to your trip. The fitter you are for your trip, the more of a holiday it will be. Activities as close to the actual activity on your trip are the best training; in this instance walking and climbing, with and without a pack. This builds leg strength, aerobic capacity and confidence in your ability to travel comfortably with a pack for extended periods. Whilst this ascent of Mt Kenya is not a technical climb, it is nevertheless a short and steep trek at altitude in possibly adverse weather conditions, and for many people it will be the hardest physical walk of their life. Come and talk to us if you are unsure about your suitability for the Mt Kenya Ascent.
Wildlife
Mode of Transport
Private return transfers from Nairobi to Mount Kenya ensure a seamless journey, with Land Rovers transporting gear while you acclimatize with a scenic walk at altitude, making your travel experience both convenient and memorable.Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the Mount Kenya Ascent tour?
The tour includes 1 night in a 3-star hotel on a twin-share basis and 5 nights of fully supported camping on a twin-share tent basis. Group camping equipment, including tents, is provided, but sleeping bags and mats are not included.
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What meals are included in the Mount Kenya Ascent tour?
The tour includes 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 5 dinners. Meals in Nairobi and those not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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What should I carry in my daypack during the trek?
You should carry extra warm clothing, a rain jacket, a water bottle, camera gear, valuables, and personal items such as sunscreen and lip balm in your daypack. Porters will carry all group gear and your main luggage.
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What is the difficulty level of the Mount Kenya Ascent tour?
The Mount Kenya Ascent is graded as moderate to challenging and is suitable for experienced and fit walkers only. The trek involves high altitude, difficult terrain, and long ascents, making it one of the more demanding treks in East Africa.
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What wildlife might I encounter during the Mount Kenya Ascent tour?
You may encounter wildlife such as elephants, buffalo, antelope, colobus monkeys, augur buzzards, and Verreaux's eagles in the lower slopes and surrounding forests of Mount Kenya.
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What is the main highlight of the Mount Kenya Ascent tour?
The main highlight of the tour is climbing Point Lenana, the highest trekking peak on Mount Kenya at 4985 meters, and enjoying the beautiful alpine scenery and views.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have offices on three continents which means your travelling companions will be just that – international and wonderfully eclectic. Part of small group travel means that although travellers come from various locations and backgrounds, you will be travelling with like-minded companions who, like you, are keen to share the experience and forge lifelong friendships.
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What about environmental impact?
We believe that adventure travel revolves around establishing a strong relationship with the people and environments in which we operate. Our responsible travel policies have been carefully developed to ensure that we minimise the impact of our presence and help to protect the regions we visit while contributing positively to the local community.
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What should I pack?
Your pre-departure documents include a detailed packing list with items that you need to bring. While most of the equipment for daily activities is included in your tour cost, some items like helmets and hiking boots are best brought from home. The pre-departure documents also include information on layering and recommended brands for various items to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone on the vast majority of our trips. Our holidays are primarily on a twin share basis, so if you are joining the group as a solo traveller, we will match you with someone of your own gender. The choice is yours however; if you prefer not to share, we do offer single supplements for private occupancy.
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Are tips included in my trip price?
Tips are not included in the tour cost. Tipping is a personal thing, do not worry about how much, or when, to tip. Tipping guidelines are provided for certain destinations in our pre departure information upon booking, however the best advice will be provided by your tour leader.
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Am I suited to small-group travel?
We recognise that many of our travellers have not been on a ‘group trip’ before. Yet what our departures provide is both structure and flexibility, allowing you plenty of freedom within the framework of the itinerary. You’ll find that with our maximum group size at 16, you’ll travel in a minimal impact style with a great group of like-minded travellers.
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Can you advise which vaccinations are recommended?
While our pre-departure kit provides information on vaccinations, we suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.
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Transfer as credit for future tours
World Expeditions allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform world expeditions, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
World Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 400 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of world expeditions charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
