REMK004: 7 Days Hike and Technical Climb via Chogoria and Sirimon Trails
This trek uses the most scenic ascent trail on the mountain, chiefly camping. It allows you to explore the contrasting and picturesque scenery of Mt. Kenya. Passing through a lush green Rain forest and thick bamboo on the way to the park gate followed by an easy paced hike through the expansive heather and moorland zones as you enjoy good views of the picturesque Gorges Valley, the Temple, lakes, mushroom rocks, billiards table and the high peaks.
DAY 1: NAIROBI - CHOGORIA PARK GATE (3000M)
Depart by 0800hrs for a drive to Chogoria. Pass through the central agricultural country to arrive at the Chogoria Village. Lunch on arrival. The vehicle will drop you within the Chogoria forest (2600m) to offer you the chance to hike the remaining distance to the Park gate (3000m). The montane forest is lush and green with several plant species such as Podo and cedar while the Bamboo belt is dense and luxuriant. Both zones are home to hundreds of wildlife species.
DAY 2: CHOGORIA PARK GATE - NITHI RIVER CAMP (3300M)
Hike for 3-4 hours to the Roadhead Camp (3300m), which is located along Nithi River. There are occasional sightings of elephant, bushbuck, buffalo and impala during the walk through the forest. Optional climb to the peak of Mugi hill (3500m) before heading on to the camp or an alternative visit to the Nithi Falls to enjoy the splendid beauty of the lower valley.
DAY 3: NITHI RIVER CAMP - MINTOS CAMPSITE (4300M)
Leave the camp early and hike for 5 hours along the edge of Gorges Valley to Mintos/Hall Tarn camp (4300m). A chance to catch one of the best views of the awe-inspiring Gorges Valley. Other fascinating scenery includes lakes, the Temple, mushroom rocks, Billiards Table, the high peaks ahead and several species of unique montane plants and flowers.
DAY 4: MINTOS CAMPSITE – LENANA (4985M) -SHIPTONS CAMP (4200M)
Predawn attempt of the summit starts at 0300hrs and you hike for about 3-4 hours to Point Lenana (4985m), 'the hikers’ summit', arriving there in time to see the African sunrise. After the summit conquest descend to Shipton’s (4200m) for breakfast. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.
DAY 5: SHIPTON’S – KAMI HUT
Those doing technical climb leave the luggage that they don’t need at Shiptons Hut under the care of some porters and hike for 2-3 hours to the Kami Hut where they spend the rest of the day preparing for the technical climb of Nelion and Batian peaks.
DAY 6, 7 & 8: TECHNICAL CLIMB
Proceed with the technical climbing Batian and Nelion. Allow at least days for the summit attempt in case weather conditions are not favorable
DAY 9: SHIPTONS CAMP - NAIROBI
Descend to sirimon park gate from where you meet with vehicles for transfer to Mountain Rock lodge for Shower and lunch before driving to Nairobi.