12 Days Mount Kenya Climb and Kenya Safari Adventure
Embark on an epic 12-day Kenyan adventure, combining the challenge of conquering Mount Kenya with the thrill of exploring its iconic wildlife reserves. This unique itinerary begins in Nairobi, leading you to the majestic slopes of Mount Kenya, where you’ll trek through diverse alpine landscapes, from lush forests to the dramatic summit of Point Lenana. Experience the exhilaration of reaching the peak and witnessing breathtaking sunrises over the African plains. Descend from the mountain and journey into the heart of Kenya’s wildlife, beginning with the misty forests and cascading waterfalls of Aberdare National Park. Continue to Lake Nakuru, a haven for vibrant flamingos, painting the lake pink. Explore the tranquil shores of Lake Naivasha, encountering hippos and giraffes on a boat safari. Finally, immerse yourself in the legendary Masai Mara, witnessing the drama of the Great Migration and encountering the “Big Five” in their natural habitat. Before returning to Nairobi, enjoy heartwarming visits to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and the Giraffe Centre, connecting with Kenya’s conservation efforts. This 12-day adventure is a perfect fusion of mountain conquest and wildlife encounters, showcasing the very best of Kenya’s natural wonders.
12 Days Mt. Kenya Climb and Safari Adventure Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi and Transfer to Accommodation
Upon arrival at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, your guide will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Nairobi. Depending on your arrival time, you can rest at your accommodation, such as the Fairmont The Norfolk or Hemingways Nairobi. If time permits, you may opt to explore Nairobi, visiting sites such as the Nairobi Railway Museum, Nairobi National Museum, or the Karen Blixen Museum. Nairobi, Kenya’s bustling capital, offers a rich mix of modern life and historical significance. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at your hotel and a restful night before your big adventure begins the following day.
Day 2: Nairobi to Mount Kenya – Begin the Ascent
After an early breakfast in Nairobi, you’ll embark on a scenic drive towards the base of Mount Kenya. The drive will take around 4-5 hours through picturesque landscapes, passing through forests and lush highlands. Upon arrival at the base of Mount Kenya, you’ll begin your climb through the Naro Moru route, one of the most popular trails. This route is well-marked and ideal for climbers of varying levels of experience. Your first day of the climb will involve an ascent to the Old Moses Camp, located at an altitude of 3,300 meters. The trek will take approximately 5-6 hours, with stunning views of the mountain’s towering peaks and surrounding valleys. After a hearty dinner, you’ll enjoy a peaceful night under the stars, surrounded by the natural beauty of Mount Kenya.
Day 3: Old Moses Camp to Shipton’s Camp
On Day 3, you’ll continue your climb to Shipton’s Camp, situated at 4,200 meters above sea level. The trek will take you through diverse terrain, from alpine forests to rocky outcrops and moorland. The altitude gain will be gradual, allowing your body to adjust to the changing conditions. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Kenya’s glacial valleys and ridgelines. Upon reaching Shipton’s Camp, you’ll have time to relax and acclimatize, ensuring that you’re prepared for the summit attempt the next day. Enjoy a warm meal and take in the serenity of the surroundings as you settle in for the night.
Day 4: Shipton’s Camp to Point Lenana (Summit) and Descent
The day you’ve been waiting for is finally here. After an early breakfast, you will embark on the summit attempt to Point Lenana, located at 4,985 meters above sea level. The climb will begin in the early hours of the morning to ensure you reach the summit before the weather conditions change.
This final section of the trek will be challenging but rewarding, with spectacular views and a sense of accomplishment as you reach the summit. At Point Lenana, you’ll have a chance to take in the panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers before beginning your descent. After taking in the breathtaking scenery, you will return to Shipton’s Camp for a well-deserved rest and a hearty meal.
Day 5: Descend Mount Kenya to Aberdare National Park
On Day 5, you’ll descend from Shipton’s Camp back to the base of Mount Kenya and then continue your journey to the Aberdare National Park. The descent will take around 3-4 hours, offering a final opportunity to enjoy the stunning mountain views as you make your way down. After the descent, you’ll drive to the Aberdare National Park, which is approximately 2-3 hours away. Upon arrival, you’ll check in to your lodge, either The Ark or Treetops Lodge, known for their excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. These lodges are strategically positioned to give you a chance to observe animals from the comfort of your accommodation’s deck, where you can spot elephants, buffaloes, and other wildlife gathering around the waterhole. You’ll enjoy dinner while watching the animals come and go, followed by an evening of relaxation at the lodge.
Day 6: Aberdare to Lake Nakuru National Park
After breakfast, you’ll depart from the Aberdare National Park and head to Lake Nakuru National Park, which is approximately a 3-4 hour drive. Lake Nakuru is renowned for its incredible birdlife, including large populations of flamingos that often cover the shores of the lake, creating a vivid and unforgettable spectacle. The park is also home to endangered species such as the black and white rhinos, as well as lions, leopards, and giraffes. Upon arrival, you’ll check in to your accommodation, such as Sarova Lion Hill Lodge or Lake Nakuru Lodge, and enjoy a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, you will go on a game drive, spotting various wildlife and enjoying the park’s stunning scenery. Afterward, return to your lodge for dinner and an evening of relaxation.
Day 7: Lake Nakuru to Lake Naivasha – Boat Ride and Hell’s Gate National Park
Following an early breakfast at your lodge, you’ll head to Lake Naivasha, a beautiful freshwater lake located just a short drive from Lake Nakuru. On arrival, you’ll embark on a boat ride across the lake, enjoying the tranquil surroundings and observing the abundant wildlife. Hippos are often seen lounging in the water, and a wide variety of bird species, including fish eagles and herons, are commonly spotted along the shores. After the boat ride, you will proceed to Hell’s Gate National Park, known for its dramatic landscapes of volcanic rocks, hot springs, and geothermal activity. Depending on the season and weather conditions, you may opt for a walking safari or a cycling adventure in the park. Hell’s Gate is famous for its spectacular cliffs and geothermal features, offering a unique opportunity to explore the park on foot or by bike. In the evening, return to your lodge at Lake Naivasha for a relaxing sundowner and dinner.
Day 8: Lake Naivasha to Masai Mara National Reserve
On Day 8, you’ll depart from Lake Naivasha and drive toward the Masai Mara, one of the most iconic wildlife reserves in Kenya. The journey will take approximately 5-6 hours, passing through the scenic Rift Valley. Upon arrival at the Mara, check in to your luxury camp or lodge, such as Mara Serena Safari Lodge or Mara Intrepids Camp. These accommodations offer stunning views of the Mara plains and provide an ideal base for your safari adventures. After settling in, you’ll head out for your first evening game drive in the Mara. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos. Enjoy the thrill of spotting these magnificent animals against the backdrop of the Mara’s golden savannah. After the game drive, return to your camp for a delicious dinner and a restful night under the African sky.
Day 9: Full Day Game Drive in Masai Mara
On Day 9, you will spend a full day exploring the Masai Mara National Reserve. Early in the morning, you’ll set off on a game drive, which offers the best opportunities to observe wildlife, particularly predators such as lions and cheetahs. The Mara is famous for its rich biodiversity, with the Great Migration taking place annually when millions of wildebeest and zebras migrate across the plains.
Even if the migration is not happening during your visit, the Mara is teeming with wildlife, and you’re likely to encounter large herds of elephants, prides of lions, and grazing giraffes. After a picnic lunch in the park, you’ll continue your game drive in the afternoon, spotting more animals and enjoying the spectacular landscape. Return to your lodge for dinner and an evening of relaxation.
Day 10: Masai Mara – Balloon Safari and Maasai Village Visit
On Day 10, you will have the opportunity to experience the Masai Mara from the skies with a hot air balloon ride. The early morning flight provides a unique perspective of the vast savannah below, with herds of animals moving across the plains. After the balloon ride, enjoy a champagne breakfast in the bush, a truly memorable experience. After breakfast, you’ll visit a traditional Maasai village, where you’ll learn about the culture, traditions, and lifestyle of the Maasai people. The Maasai are famous for their colorful clothing, jewelry, and customs, and you’ll have the chance to observe their dances and rituals. In the afternoon, you’ll return to your camp and have some free time to relax or go on another game drive.
Day 11: Masai Mara to Nairobi
On Day 11, you will bid farewell to the Masai Mara and drive back to Nairobi. The journey will take about 5-6 hours, and upon arrival, you’ll check in to your Nairobi hotel. In the afternoon, you can visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT), where you can witness the orphaned elephants being fed and learn about their rehabilitation efforts. Afterward, you’ll visit the Giraffe Centre, home to the endangered Rothschild giraffe, where you can feed the giraffes and learn about their conservation efforts.
Day 12: Visit David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and Giraffe Centre
On your final day in Nairobi, after breakfast, visit the Giraffe Centre and DSWT, where you’ll have the chance to interact with the animals and learn about the vital work being done to protect endangered species. The day concludes with a delicious lunch at Matbronze Café before you are transferred to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your late evening flight back home.
