Overview
The Sirimon Route is one of the most scenic and accessible paths to ascend Mt. Kenya, offering breathtaking views, diverse range of ecosystems and relatively gentle ascent. This route offers trekkers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Africa's second-highest peak while enjoying a less crowded and more serene hiking experience. With its gradual acclimatization profile, the Sirimon Route is ideal for both novice and experienced hikers, making it a favored choice for those looking to summit Point Lenana (4,985 meters), the highest trekking peak on the mountain.
Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi to Old Moses Camp
Begin your journey early in the morning from Nairobi, traveling through lush landscapes and small towns until you reach Nanyuki. Enjoy a packed lunch en route. Travel duration is approximately 4-5 hours. After arriving at Sirimon Gate, start your trek through the forest, which gradually transitions into moorland. The path winds uphill, offering chances to spot wildlife such as zebras and antelopes. Arrive at Old Moses Camp in the late afternoon, where you will have dinner, unwind and spend the night.
Start Elevation: 2,660 meters at Sirimon Gate
End Elevation: 3,300 meters at Old Moses Camp
Walking Time: 3-4 hours
Day 2: Old Moses Camp to Shipton Camp
After breakfast, set out early for Shipton Camp. The trek begins with a gentle ascent through moorland, leading to the Ontulli River valley. From there, you will climb into the Liki North area, enjoying stunning views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. Upon reaching Shipton Camp, nestled beneath the towering peaks of Mt. Kenya, take time to rest and acclimatize. You will have dinner and prepare for an early start the next day.
Start Elevation: 3,300 meters at Old Moses Camp
End Elevation: 4,250 meters at Shipton Camp
Walking Time: 6-7 hours
Distance: 14 km
Day 3: Shipton Camp to Point Lenana and Descent to Mintos Camp
Wake up around 2:00 AM and have a light snack before starting your ascent to Point Lenana. The trek involves navigating through scree and rocky sections, and you will need to maintain a steady pace. Aim to reach the summit by sunrise (approximately 6:30 AM) to witness the breathtaking views across the Mt. Kenya massif.
Start Elevation: 4,250 meters at Shipton Camp
Summit Elevation: 4,985 meters at Point Lenana
Walking Time: 4-6 hours to summit, then descend to Mintos Camp
Distance: About 9 km
After enjoying the sunrise and taking photos at the summit, begin your descent to Mintos Camp (4,250 meters). This leg will take about 2-3 hours. At Mintos Camp, you will have breakfast and rest. In the afternoon, descend through the Gorges Valley, passing by scenic lakes and waterfalls. The trek will take you through diverse habitats, culminating at Meru Bandas, where you will have dinner and spend the night.
Start Elevation: 4,250 meters at Mintos Camp
End Elevation: 2,900 meters at Meru Bandas
Walking Time: Approximately 5 hours
Distance: About 15 km
Day 4: Return to Nairobi
After breakfast, continue your descent through the lush rainforest back to the vehicle pickup point. The journey back to Nairobi will take approximately 3 hours.
Start Elevation: 2,900 meters at Meru Bandas
End Elevation: 1,800 meters at Nairobi
Walking Time: 3 hours
Important Tips
Acclimatization: Ensure you are well-acclimatized to avoid altitude sickness.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the trek.
Packing: Bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes, sturdy waterproof hiking boots, sleeping gear, food and snacks, navigation tools, first aid kit, durable backpack to carry your gear.
Guidance: Consider hiring a local guide for safety and enhanced experience.