The Chogoria route which approaches Mount Kenya on the eastern side, is excellent for acclimatization over a 5-day trek. During your mountain hike via Mt Kenya Sirimon Chogoria route, you can enjoy mind-blowing scenery along with getting the feeling of solitude and peace. The trek passes two iconic lakes of Mount Kenya: Lake Ellis and Lake Michaelson. In this case, you should know that Lake Michaelson is considered one of the most beautiful locations on this mountain.
Sirimon Route
It is the least used route. As Sirimon is located on the dry side of the mountain, you can find beautiful forest here. Whereas in the lower sections, above Park Gate, you can get to see Cedar and Podocarpus trees. On the other hand, near the top of the track, airplane flowers and tussock grass can be seen.
Chogoria route
If you want to enjoy the wildlife and bird life on Mount Kenya, then you can trek through the Chogoria route following a 7-day itinerary with campsites setup and the guidance of Ice Rock Trekking company’s trained local porters and guides.
Mt Kenya Sirimon Chogoria Route Itinerary
● Nairobi to Old Moses Camp
You need to leave Nairobi by 8 am. Then, you have to proceed to Sirimon gate of Mt Kenya which will take about 4 hours. Then, you need to follow the track uphill for 10 km from Sirimon Gate forking left at the junction so that you can reach Old Moses Camp.
● Old Moses Camp to Shipton Camp
After having your breakfast, you need to start your journey at 8 am. Then, you have to follow the directions for the direct route until you reach there. This track will swing right and South around the head of a valley. Then, you need to cross several small streams so that you can reach the crest of the ridge between the Otulili and Liki North valleys. Then, what you need to do is ascend the West side of the valley over a bridge. Then, go down into the Mackinders Valley. To reach Shipton Camp, it will take about 6 hours.
● Shipton camp to point Lenana down to Mintos Hut
After having your tea, you need to leave the camp at 3 am and go to the Lenana site to watch the sunrise. You need to walk across a tough scree until you reach Harris Tarn. After enjoying the stunning views, you need to descend down to Mintos Hut.
● Mintos Hut to Meru Mount Kenya Bandas
After having your breakfast, you need to descend to the Gorges Valley via Lake Michaelson and Vivan talks. Within 5 hours, you will reach the Bandas.
● Meru Mount Kenya Bandas to Nairobi
After having your breakfast, you need to walk down through bamboo and forest until you reach Bairunyi. Here, you will get transport to go back to Nairobi.
End note
If you want to have a tour of Mount Kenya via the Mt Kenya Sirimon Chogoria route, you can contact Ice Rock Trekking. The best thing about this company is they can customize the tours as per their requirements and assure that you will have a safe and enjoyable trip.