6 Days Mount Kenya Climbing
Day 1: Nairobi- Nanyuki – Old Moses camp ( 3,300m) 3-4 hrs, 9km, 680m ascent.
After pick up in Nairobi, drive to Nanyuki town for lunch, crossing the equator en route to the Sirimon Park gate(2660m). From the entrance, we trek up through magnificent montane forest, bamboo and giant heather zone before reaching the high altitude moorland and our first hut (Old Moses camp) for dinner and overnight.
The gentle trek takes 3 – 4 hrs, gaining an elevation of 680m.
Day 2: Old Moses – Shipton camp (4,236m). 7 hrs, 14km,900m ascent
Up the spectacular Mackinder Valley past strange giant groundsel and lobelia plants to emerge onto what looks like a set from Star Trek – Shipton’s Camp at 4,236m.
There is a surreal setting below the towering peaks and glaciers, with its resident populations of bizarre rock hyrax and beautiful sunbirds.
Day 3: Full Day acclimatization.
For better acclimatization, you can take a rest day at the Shipton camp. Short walks/day hikes are possible on the summit climb to Oblong and Hausberg tarns, gaining an elevation of 370m before returning to the camp for lunch. The afternoon is at leisure.
N.B: Climbing high and sleeping low is excellent for acclimatization – but you can do that almost as well toughing in the sun watching the eagles!
Day 4: Shipton Camp – Mackinders Camp (4,300m) 4 hrs, 7km, 300m ascent
From Shipton’s camp, the trail leads to Kami camp below the north face of Batian. Continuing west – southwest, the trails climbs up switchbacks in the fine snow before reaching Hausberg Col at 4590m. We will descend into the upper Hausberg valley and rest at the oblong and Hausberg tarns. Ascending to the crest of a ridge known as Arthur’s seat, we see the trail winding along with a beautiful series of rock ledges. We will descend to Mackinder’s camp for the night.
Day 5: Mackinders Camp – Point Lenana (4,985m) – Bandas. 11-12 hrs, 685m ascent, 2,080m descent.
An early 2.30 am starting for an attempt to reach point Lenana in time for sunrise.
The climb takes 4 hrs, and to add to the exhilaration, Kilimanjaro is also visible from the horizon. Descend to Mintos hut for full breakfast. After a short rest, descend further to Mt Kenya bandas through the gorges valley for dinner & overnight.
You can enjoy log fires, hot showers and bed at the Bandas!
Day 6: Meru Bandas – Chogoria town – Nairobi. 2 hrs, 10km walk.
After breakfast, descend on a broad track through bamboo and virgin rain forest to meet the vehicle for returning to Nairobi – usually arriving mid to late afternoon.
INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:
- Return transfers from Nairobi to Mt Kenya (private)
- All Park fees.
- All food while on the Mountain.
- Accommodation in mountain huts/ camping where applicable.
- All guiding services
- Porter support for the climb.
EXCLUDED FROM THE PRICE:
- Personal clothing and equipment
- Tips and gratuities for guides and porter (recommended to be 10 – 15% of climb costs)
- Beverages while not on the mountain
