A 5-day hike to Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest peak, offers an exhilarating adventure through diverse landscapes and ecosystems. Here’s a suggested itinerary for your trek:
Day 1: Nanyuki to Old Moses Camp (Judmaier Camp)
- Start your journey from Nanyuki town, where most treks begin.
- Drive or arrange transportation to the Sirimon Gate (2,650 meters) where you’ll register with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
- Begin the hike through the montane forest zone, spotting various bird species and possibly colobus monkeys.
- Reach Old Moses Camp (Judmaier Camp) at an altitude of around 3,300 meters. It’s about a 9-10km hike taking roughly 3-4 hours. Spend the night at the campsite.
Day 2: Old Moses Camp to Shipton’s Camp
- Wake up early and have breakfast at Old Moses Camp.
- Ascend further through the moorland, passing Liki North Hut.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Gorges Valley and Lake Michaelson as you trek through Mackinder’s Valley.
- Arrive at Shipton’s Camp (4,200 meters) in the late afternoon. This leg of the journey is approximately 14-15km and may take around 6-7 hours.
- Spend the night at Shipton’s Camp, nestled beneath the towering peaks of Mount Kenya.
Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Shipton’s Camp
- Use this day to acclimatize to the higher altitude. You can take short walks around the camp or hike to some nearby viewpoints.
- Explore the surroundings, which offer stunning vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
- Rest, hydrate, and enjoy the mountain ambiance to prepare for the next day’s ascent.
Day 4: Summit Attempt – Point Lenana
- Wake up very early (around 2-3 a.m.) for the summit attempt.
- Begin the challenging ascent to Point Lenana (4,985 meters), the third-highest peak of Mount Kenya, under the stars.
- Reach the summit in time to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the African plains below.
- After enjoying the views and taking memorable photos, descend back to Shipton’s Camp for a well-deserved rest.
- The summit day involves about 10-12 hours of hiking, covering approximately 15-18km round trip.
Day 5: Shipton’s Camp to Sirimon Gate and Return to Nanyuki
- Descend from Shipton’s Camp back to Sirimon Gate, passing through the moorland and montane forest zones.
- Bid farewell to the majestic Mount Kenya as you complete your hike.
- Arrive at the Sirimon Gate, where you’ll sign out with the KWS.
- Transfer back to Nanyuki town, where you can celebrate your successful summit and reflect on your incredible journey.
Remember to pack appropriate gear, including warm clothing, sturdy hiking boots, a sleeping bag, sunscreen, and plenty of water and snacks. Additionally, it’s crucial to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and listen to your body throughout the trek to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
