Mt Kenya

Mount Kenya stands alone in the highlands of central Kenya. Once an ancient volcano, estimated to have once been almost 22,000 feet tall, what now remains is a steep, eroded core, just over 17,000 feet in height, this is the massif. It’s nearby neighbour Kilimanjaro, though a couple of thousand feet higher and hence much better known, does not offer nearly the climbing challenge and alpine character of Mount Kenya.

The Chogoria Route approaches Mount Kenya on the Eastern side via Chogoria town. It is much quieter on this side compared to the busy western slopes. The route is longer and more gradual which is perfect for acclimatisation over a great 5 day trek. The scenery is so stunning on this route and it has a fantastic charm as it brings a feeling of solitude and peace into a magnificent mountain hike. This route brings to life some of the most beautiful and scenic sites on the mountain, the trek passes two of the most iconic lakes on Mount Kenya, Lake Ellis and Lake Michaelson. Lake Michaelson is considered to be the most stunning location on this great mountain. Set at the head of the Gorges Valley surrounded by 200m rock walls on each side that make up the Temple.

Day 1: Private Charter to Kisima Airstrip and Transfer to Chogoria.

Drive to Chogoria Gate (Mt. Kenya National Park Entrance)

• Distance: ~ 110 km from Kisima

• Time: ~ 2 hrs from Kisima

• Altitude: ~ 2,950m

Trek - Chogoria Gate to Swiss Army Camp (Or Trailhead depending)

• Distance: ~10-14 km depending on final campsite

• Time: 4-6 hours trek

Our journey begins with a scenic drive from Nanyuki (~4.5 hrs) to Chogoria Town. From here, a 4x4 vehicle takes you to the Mount Kenya National Park gate (2,950m). After a quick break, the trek begins through lush montane forest, where you might spot colobus monkeys, elephants, and buffalo tracks. The trail ascends gradually, passing through the Nithi falls and bamboo and heathland, revealing breathtaking views of the Gorges Valley and waterfalls. The first night is spent at Swiss Army Camp (3,150m) or Chogoria Roadhead (3,300m), offering a quieter alternative to Lake Ellis.

Day 2 : Swiss Army Camp to Mintos Camp

• Starting : 3,300m

• Ending :4,200m

• Distance: ~9-10 km

• Time: ~5-6 hours trek

Today’s trek takes you deeper into the moorland zone, with stunning panoramic views of Mount Kenya’s peaks. You’ll walk past the dramatic Gorges Valley, with its towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking sights of the Temple (a 150m rock amphitheater) and Lake Michaelson, nestled in a steep valley.

The trail gets steeper as you approach Mintos Camp (4,200m), your base for the night. The campsite offers sweeping views of the summit peaks Batian and Nelion. You’ll have an early dinner as you prepare for the pre-dawn summit attempt tomorrow.

Camping at Mintos: Stunning views of Lake Michaelson below.

Day 3: Day 3: Mintos to Austrian camp via Point Lenana

• Starting : 4,200m

• Lenana : 4,985m

• Austrian : 4,790m

• Distance: ~8 km

• Time: ~6-8 hours (depending on pace and weather conditions)

The day starts early, around 3:30 AM, with a hot drink before beginning the push to Point Lenana (4,985m) for sunrise. The climb is steep and cold, passing through rocky moraines and scree slopes. As you ascend, the stars give way to a golden sunrise, illuminating the peaks. Reaching Point Lenana (the highest trekking peak) is an exhilarating moment, with spectacular 360-degree views stretching across Kenya and into Tanzania. After taking summit photos, you descend towards Austrian camp (4,790m), situated next to the Lewis Glacier, where you can rest and enjoy the high-altitude landscape.

Day 4: Austrian camp to Met Station (Narumoru) for Pickup

• Starting: 4,790m

• Ending : 3,050m

• Distance: ~12-14 km

• Time: ~5-6 hours descent

• Pickup at Met Station (3,050m)

After breakfast, you start your descent via the Narumoru Route. The trail takes you through rocky alpine zones, transitioning into heather and moorland, then into dense montane forest. You’ll pass Teleki Valley, known for its stunning views of the peaks behind you. At Met Station (3,050m), a vehicle awaits to transfer you to Nanyuki.