This is creative expedition and the most popular African trekking wilderness adventure! It is a combination of two of the most scenic routes up Mt. Kenya, Sirimon and Chogoria. It produces a remarkably diverse and a memorable trekking experience. Sirimon coming off the north west of Mount Kenya passes through the lee side of the mountain with its tall trees, beautiful moorland and rocky terrain. And the descent along the Chogoria path is totally different with its tall, thick bamboo forest and the indigenous rain forest.
Nights can be spent in the mountain huts on this trek. However, if you prefer to camp, for one reason or the other, we provide high quality alpine tents.
Itinerary
Depart from Nairobi at the 7am. Drive to Nanyuki town for an early lunch, crossing the equator just before entering the town. We transfer to Sirimon gate the starting point. After the paper work, we trek up through magnificent montane forest, colored with the ‘Old Man Bearded’, a belt of short bamboo and giant heather zone. We reach our first hut (Old Moses camp 3,300m) for the night. This gentle hike will take 3 hrs gaining an elevation of 650m.
After a tasty breakfast, we hike uphill, forking right at the junction of Likii north camp. A water break is recommended at this junction. We continue on the track crossing Ontulili River through the Moorland and crossing Liki North River. We continue uphill to the top of Mackinder’s Valley. There are panoramic views up the valley towards the Shipton Camp from this point. The camp is a surreal setting below the towering peaks and glaciers of this 'Holy Mountain'. Families of Rock hyrax and sun birds can be seen as you approach the camp. Total duration is 6-8 hours, with picnic lunch en route. Dinner and overnight in the camp.
Today is an acclimatization day. Short day walks are possible on the summit climb to Hausberg col. By doing so, you gain a height of 370m. Then return to the camp for lunch.
We at Hiking And Trekking In East Afrika, we recommend the 'Climbing high and sleeping low' concept for a better acclimatization.
We start our final assault around 3.am to reach point Lenana (4985m) in time for the African Sunrise.
The assault starts on frozen scree (sometimes snow) and continues on a rocky track with some scrambling. In case of the full moon, the summiting seems easier because of the good visibility. Without the Moon, the pollution-free sky bangs on the ground, giving you a good view of the Stars.
The summit will take roughly 3 hours and to add to the exhilaration, Mt Kilimanjaro is also visible from the horizon in a clear lucky day!
After sun rise, we will descend to Minto`s hut for breakfast. After a short rest, we descend further down to Anabas lodge. The descend is on top of the Gorges valley ridge, where you can enjoy good views of Lake Michelson, Lake Ellis, Mushroom rocks and Giants billiards Table Mountain. Lunch is served at Road head camp (3300m).
After lunch, we descend along the wide track to Anabas lodge for the last dinner in the mountain. A hot shower in the lodge, and a Beer!!!
After breakfast, descend through the bamboo forest and virgin rain forest to meet the vehicle at the 10km mark. Transfer to Nairobi arriving by 17:00hrs where the tour ends.