7 Day Mount Kenya Climb – Sirimon Naro Moru Route

Mt Kenya Sirimon Naro Moru Route

DESCRIPTION

This trek will have you crossing spectacular alpine moorland, forests, glaciers and tarns until reaching Point Lenana, which sits at 16,354 feet above sea level, the second highest trekking peak in Africa.  A dormant ancient volcano, Mount Kenya is host to a bamboo and rainforest on its lower sloped and its triple peaks which are snow-capped for much of the year are a sight to behold.  This 7-Day Mount Kenya Climb ascents the Sirimon route due to its steady altitude gain and beautiful approach views.  The return route is Naro Moru, the quickest and easiest way down the mountain.  This trail passes through the notorious vertical bog which can be waterlogged in the rainy seasons and offers stunning scenery.

Climbing Mount Kenya: WHAT’S IT LIKE?

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ITINERARY

DAY 1
Arrival in Nairobi

Our representative will meet you at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and drive you to the Royal Orchid Hotel in bustling Nairobi.

DAY 2
Nairobi (5,889 ft) to Rhino Watch Lodge (5,750 ft)

We leave Nairobi and travel north through diverse agricultural lands to the central highlands until reaching the Rhino Watch Lodge. Our guide will meet and discuss your climb. Overnight at Rhino Watch Lodge. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

DAY 3
Sirimon Gate (8,727 ft) to Old Moses Hut (10,826 ft)

We leave Nairobi and travel north through diverse agricultural lands to the central highlands and finally to the slopes of Mount Kenya. Sirimon Gate sits at 8,727 feet above elevation and is the starting point of our trek. Today’s hike is short, taking no more than 3-hours to reach the first hut. The winding trail passes through dense forest, bamboo and giant heather before opening up to a high moorland. The thick vegetation provides shelter to buffalo, elephants and is packed with a variety of birdlife. Overnight at Old Moses Hut (10,826 ft). (Lunch and Dinner)

DAY 4
Old Moses Camp (10,826 ft) Shiptons Camp (13,779 ft)

Today we hike up the sprawling moorland, crossing the Ontulili and Liki rivers and into the Mackinder Valley. Shiptons Camp offers a surreal setting nestled below towering peaks and glaciers with panoramic views up the valley. Overnight at Shiptons Camp (13,779 ft). (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

DAY 5
Acclimation Day – Hike to Hausberg Col (15,091 ft) - Shiptons Camp (13,779 ft)

Today is a dedicated rest day where we will spend one last night at Shiptons Camp before our summit push. Extra days on the trail are invaluable for acclimatization and will make the summit day more enjoyable. It is recommended to hike to Hausberg Col (15,091 ft) or if you are feeling strong you can pass Oblong and Hausberg Tarns to Nanyuki. Overnight at Shiptons Camp (13,779 ft). (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

DAY 6
Shiptons Camp (13,779 ft) to Summit (16,354 ft) to Mackinder’s Camp (14,107 ft)

Leaving very early in the morning (around 3am), we continue our way to the summit to catch the sunrise. The trail is a steady ascent up scree and rock with a scramble up the last 100 feet. Once at the top we will have time to take photos from Point Lenana and enjoy the plains of Africa, on a clear day it is possible to see Mount Kilimanjaro. We will then descend to Mackinder’s Camp for a hearty breakfast and if you are feeling up to it, you can head down the mountain another 5 miles to Met Station. Otherwise camp for the night will be at Mackinder’s. Overnight at Mackinder’s Camp or Met Station. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

DAY 7
Mackinder’s Camp (14,107 ft) to Naro Moru Gate (8,530 ft) - Transfer to Nairobi Our

With boosted spirits from the previous day’s accomplishments we descend through beautiful vegetation on the windward side of the mountain, passing through the infamous vertical bog, dense bamboo and virgin rainforest. Once at Naro Moru Gate we head back to Nairobi about a 4-5 hour drive. Overnight at Nairobi. (Breakfast and lunch)

DAY 8
After breakfast transfer to Jomo Kenyatta airport for return flight home.

END OF SERVICES

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INCLUDED

  • Airport transfers to/from Nairobi
  • Accommodations in Nairobi
  • Accommodations at Rhino Watch Lodge or similar
  • Ground 4x4 transportation
  • Mount Kenya Park permits
  • Hut accommodations throughout climb (there is no camping in tents)
  • Expert guides, assistant guides, cook and porters
  • Fresh, nutritious meals on the mountain
  • Sleeping bag, trekking poles, down jacket, rain jacket rental

EXCLUDED

  • Airfare
  • Personal gear and equipment
  • Beverages
  • Tips