3-4 Day Mount Kenya Climb via Sirimon Route

The Sirimon Route is one of the most scenic and gradual approaches to Point Lenana (4,985m) on Mount Kenya. It offers less traffic, diverse landscapes, and a high chance of wildlife sightings. This 3- to 4-day itinerary is ideal for trekkers who want a slightly longer acclimatization period while still keeping the trek short and challenging.

7 days Mount kenya climbing Naromoru chogoria route

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi – Drive to Sirimon Gate – Trek to Old Moses Camp (3,300m)

  • Drive time: 4–5 hours (Nairobi to Sirimon Gate)
  • Trek distance: 9km
  • Hiking time: 3–4 hours
  • Elevation gain: 700m

Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up in Nairobi, followed by a scenic drive towards Mount Kenya National Park via Nanyuki town. Along the way, enjoy views of central Kenya’s countryside, lush coffee, and tea plantations.

Upon arrival at Sirimon Gate (2,600m), you’ll complete the park entry formalities and start the trek. The trail begins with a gradual ascent through montane forests, bamboo, and heather zones, where you may spot buffalo, bushbucks, and colobus monkeys.

After a 3–4 hour trek, you’ll reach Old Moses Camp (3,300m), where you’ll rest, enjoy a warm meal, and prepare for the next day’s ascent.

Accommodation:

🏕 Old Moses Camp (mountain hut with dormitory-style bunk beds).
🍽 Meals: Lunch & Dinner.

Day 2: Old Moses Camp (3,300m) – Shipton’s Camp (4,200m)

  • Trek distance: 14km
  • Hiking time: 6–7 hours
  • Elevation gain: 900m

After an early breakfast, you’ll begin trekking towards Shipton’s Camp, a significant altitude jump that requires a steady pace and hydration. The trail takes you through moorland and high-altitude landscapes, offering breathtaking views of rugged peaks, valleys, and alpine flora like giant lobelias and groundsel plants.

The path follows the Mackinder’s Valley, where you’ll encounter dramatic rock formations and occasional sightings of mountain hyraxes and sunbirds. You’ll reach Shipton’s Camp (4,200m) by afternoon, giving you time to rest, acclimatize, and prepare for the early morning summit attempt.

Accommodation:

🏕 Shipton’s Camp (basic hut with bunk beds, shared toilet facilities).
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 3: Summit Attempt – Shipton’s Camp to Point Lenana (4,985m) – Descend to Old Moses Camp (3,300m)

  • Summit trek distance: 3km (ascent) + 20km (descent)
  • Hiking time: 10–12 hours
  • Elevation gain: 785m (ascent), then descend 1,685m

Your summit attempt starts at 2:30 AM, with a steep rocky climb under the stars. The goal is to reach Point Lenana by sunrise, offering a breathtaking 360-degree view of Mount Kilimanjaro (on clear days), the Aberdare Range, and surrounding landscapes.

After celebrating your achievement and taking photos, you’ll descend back to Shipton’s Camp for breakfast, then continue the long trek back to Old Moses Camp via Mackinder’s Valley, passing through stunning landscapes once again.

Accommodation:

🏕 Old Moses Camp.
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 4 (Optional): Descend to Sirimon Gate – Return to Nairobi

  • Trek distance: 9km
  • Hiking time: 3–4 hours
  • Drive time: 4–5 hours (Sirimon Gate to Nairobi)

After breakfast, you’ll take a leisurely descent to Sirimon Gate, enjoying the last scenic views before completing the trek. You’ll then drive back to Nairobi, arriving by late afternoon.

Accommodation:

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

Optional Add-ons

  • 1 Extra Day: If you prefer a slower trek, add a night at Mackinder’s Valley Camp for better acclimatization.
  • Safari Extension: Explore Masai Mara, Amboseli, or Samburu after the trek.
  • Zanzibar Beach Holiday: Fly to Zanzibar for post-trek relaxation.

Packing List for the Trek

  • Clothing: Thermal layers, waterproof gear, insulated jacket, gloves, hat.
  • Footwear: Sturdy trekking boots with ankle support.
  • Gear: Trekking poles, headlamp, sleeping bag (if needed).
  • Essentials: Sunglasses, sunscreen, high-energy snacks, hydration system.

Why Choose the Sirimon Route?

✔ Gradual ascent, ideal for acclimatization.
✔ Scenic variety, from forests to alpine zones.
✔ Less crowded than Naro Moru and Chogoria Routes.
✔ Wildlife encounters along the lower trail.

Final Thoughts

This 3–4 day Mount Kenya climb via Sirimon Route is perfect for trekkers seeking a challenging but rewarding adventure. With its gradual ascent, stunning landscapes, and diverse ecosystems, this trek offers an unforgettable experience.