Mount Kenya Climbing via Chogoria Route

The Chogoria Route is widely regarded as the most picturesque and breathtaking way to ascend Mount Kenya. This less-traveled path offers lush montane forests, rolling moorlands, crystal-clear lakes, dramatic cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. Unlike other routes, Chogoria is less crowded, allowing climbers to experience the tranquility and raw beauty of the mountain.

5 days Mount Kenya climbing sirimon peak

Detailed Itinerary For a 4 days Mount Kenya Climbing Via Chogoria route

This detailed itinerary provides a 4-day Mount Kenya trek, balancing adventure, proper acclimatization, and a thrilling summit attempt to Point Lenana (4,985m), the highest trekking peak on Africa’s second-highest mountain.

Day 1: Nairobi – Chogoria Gate – Lake Ellis (3,400m)

  • Driving time: 4–5 hours (Nairobi to Chogoria)
  • Hiking distance: 8km
  • Elevation gain: 800m
  • Hiking time: 3–4 hours

Your journey begins with an early morning pick-up in Nairobi, followed by a scenic drive towards Chogoria town on the eastern slopes of Mount Kenya. Along the way, you’ll pass lush coffee and tea plantations, small rural towns, and the green landscapes of Embu and Meru counties.

Upon arrival at Chogoria Gate (2,600m), you will check in at Mount Kenya National Park, meet your guides and porters, and receive a briefing on the trek ahead. The hike begins through a beautiful montane forest, home to colobus monkeys, bushbucks, and diverse bird species. The trail gradually ascends into the moorlands, where the landscape opens up to rolling hills and breathtaking scenery.

After a 3 to 4-hour trek, you will reach Lake Ellis (3,400m), a serene alpine lake surrounded by rugged terrain. This is the perfect campsite for acclimatization, photography, and relaxation before your summit push.

Accommodation:

🏕 Camping at Lake Ellis (tents provided, full-board meals).
🍽 Meals: Lunch & Dinner.

Day 2: Lake Ellis (3,400m) – Mintos Hut (4,200m)

  • Hiking distance: 12km
  • Elevation gain: 800m
  • Hiking time: 5–6 hours

After breakfast, you’ll start your ascent towards Mintos Hut (4,200m). The landscape transforms as you pass rocky outcrops, vast moorlands, and high-altitude vegetation such as giant lobelias and senecios. One of the highlights of the day is the breathtaking view of the Gorges Valley, a dramatic landscape filled with towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.

As you gain altitude, the oxygen levels drop, so maintaining a slow, steady pace is crucial for acclimatization. The final stretch leads to Mintos Tarn, a high-altitude camping site with stunning views of Lake Michaelson below. By afternoon, you will settle at Mintos Hut, where you will rest, hydrate, and enjoy a warm meal while preparing for the summit attempt.

Accommodation:

🏕 Camping at Mintos Hut (tents provided, full-board meals).
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 3: Summit Attempt – Mintos Hut to Point Lenana (4,985m) – Descend to Meru Bandas (3,000m)

  • Summit hike distance: 6km ascent, 15km descent
  • Hiking time: 10–12 hours
  • Elevation gain: 785m (ascent), then descend 1,985m

Your summit push begins at 2:30 AM, with an early morning departure from Mintos Hut. The trail to Point Lenana (4,985m) is steep and rocky, requiring careful navigation under the starlit sky. As you climb, the air becomes thinner, but the goal is to reach the summit by sunrise.

Upon reaching Point Lenana, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular 360-degree view of Mount Kilimanjaro (on a clear day), the Aberdare Ranges, and the surrounding peaks of Batian and Nelion. Take time to soak in the breathtaking scenery, capture unforgettable photos, and celebrate this incredible achievement.

After enjoying the summit, you’ll begin your descent back to Mintos Hut for breakfast, then continue further down to Meru Bandas (3,000m). The descent takes you through rolling moorlands, scenic valleys, and bamboo forests, offering a pleasant end to the climb.

Accommodation:

🏕 Meru Bandas (simple huts with beds and warm showers).
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 4 (Optional): Meru Bandas – Chogoria Gate – Nairobi

  • Hiking distance: 10km
  • Hiking time: 3–4 hours
  • Drive time: 5–6 hours

After a relaxed breakfast, you will take a gentle trek through the bamboo and montane forests, descending towards Chogoria Gate. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to spot wildlife such as buffaloes, elephants, and antelopes, which occasionally wander into these parts of the forest.

From the gate, a 4WD vehicle will transfer you to Chogoria town, where your driver will be waiting for the journey back to Nairobi. Arrival is expected by late afternoon, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.

Accommodation:

🏨 No overnight stay (end of tour).
🍽 Meals: Breakfast & Lunch.

Packing List for the Trek

  • Clothing: Thermal base layers, waterproof jacket, insulated jacket, gloves, hat.
  • Footwear: Strong trekking boots with ankle support.
  • Gear: Sleeping bag, trekking poles, headlamp, sunglasses, sunscreen.
  • Essentials: High-energy snacks, hydration system, personal medication.

Why Choose the Chogoria Route?

✔ Most scenic route on Mount Kenya.
✔ Less crowded than Sirimon and Naro Moru routes.
✔ Features lakes, waterfalls, and dramatic landscapes.
✔ Better acclimatization and a gradual ascent.

Final Thoughts

The Chogoria Route is ideal for trekkers looking for a more scenic and immersive adventure on Mount Kenya. It combines diverse landscapes, thrilling challenges, and breathtaking views, making it a must-do for nature lovers and climbers. Whether you choose a 4-day immersive experience, this itinerary offers an unforgettable high-altitude adventure.