4-Day Mount Kenya Sirimon-Sirimon Adventure Hike

Overview

The 4-day Sirimon-Sirimon route hike is a popular adventure on Mount Kenya, offering stunning views and a more gradual ascent compared to other routes. The hike provides trekkers with an excellent opportunity to experience diverse landscapes ranging from montane forests to high-altitude alpine zones. The Sirimon route is known for its scenic beauty, making it ideal for adventurers looking for both a rewarding and moderately challenging trek. The highlight of the hike is reaching Point Lenana, Mount Kenya’s third-highest peak at 4,985 meters.

Itinerary

Day 1: Nairobi to Sirimon Gate – Old Moses Camp (3,300m)

Early Morning Departure: Depart from Nairobi and drive to Nanyuki town, where you’ll stop for lunch and final supplies.
Arrival at Sirimon Gate: After a 3-4 hour drive, you’ll reach the Sirimon Gate (2,650m), the starting point of the trek.
Hike to Old Moses Camp: A 3-4 hour gentle ascent through montane forests and open moorlands brings you to Old Moses Camp (3,300m), offering great acclimatization as you enjoy scenic views of the plains below.
Overnight: Old Moses Camp (camping or hut accommodation).

Day 2: Old Moses Camp to Shipton’s Camp (4,200m)

Trek through Mackinder Valley: After breakfast, start the 6-7 hour trek through the picturesque Mackinder Valley, passing through unique high-altitude vegetation like giant lobelias and groundsels.
Arrive at Shipton’s Camp: Situated at the base of the high peaks, Shipton’s Camp (4,200m) offers stunning views of the surrounding glacier-covered peaks and serves as a good resting point before the summit push.
Overnight: Shipton’s Camp.

Day 3: Summit Day – Shipton’s Camp to Point Lenana (4,985m) and Back to Old Moses Camp

Pre-Dawn Summit Attempt: Begin the ascent at around 3 am to reach Point Lenana by sunrise. The climb takes about 3-4 hours and passes through rocky terrain.
Reach the Summit: Arrive at Point Lenana (4,985m) for breathtaking sunrise views over Mount Kenya and, on clear days, Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance.
Descend to Old Moses Camp: After celebrating at the summit, descend back to Shipton’s Camp for a short rest, then continue down to Old Moses Camp.
Overnight: Old Moses Camp.

Day 4: Old Moses Camp to Sirimon Gate and Return to Nairobi

Final Descent: After breakfast, descend the final leg back to Sirimon Gate. You’ll be picked up at the gate and driven back to Nairobi, arriving in the late afternoon.

Inclusions

Professional mountain guide, cook, and porters
All park entrance and camping fees
Full-board meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Transport to and from Nairobi
Summit certificate upon completion
All camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats)

Exclusions

Personal hiking gear (e.g., sleeping bag, trekking poles)
Tips for the guide, cook, and porters
Travel insurance and medical evacuation coverage
Personal expenses (e.g., snacks, drinks)

What to Pack

Warm clothing (layered for cold weather)
Sturdy hiking boots
Rainproof jacket and pants
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat
Personal medical supplies and hydration solutions
Camera for capturing the scenic moments

Best Time to Climb

The dry seasons from January to March and July to October are ideal for trekking, as the trails are less muddy and the skies are clearer.

This 4-day Sirimon-Sirimon route hike is an excellent option for adventurers looking to explore Mount Kenya’s varied landscapes, offering an exciting blend of natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and an exhilarating summit challenge.