7 Days Mt. Kenya Climbing: Sirimon – Naromoru Route

Drive from Nairobi to our base lodge on the western slopes of Mt Kenya tucked away in the Mount Kenya forest and at almost 2,000m the acclimatisation begins here. This afternoon is an inclusive walk through the forest where local natural history guide will reveal the medicinal plants, birds and animals of the forest environment as you explore the lower montane forest while heading to the famous Mau Mau caves – an interesting hike that prepares you for the main trek.

Short drive, crossing the equator en-route, to the Sirimon Park Gate. On completion of park entry formalities we trek up through magnificent montane forests, bamboo and giant heather zones before reaching the high altitude moorland and our first hut, “Old Moses” at 3,340m. This first day’s gentle trek takes 2-3 hours and ascends 740m.

Up the sprawling Mooreland to the spectacular Likii Valley an area of beautiful high altitude plant such as Ostrich Plum Lobelia and Cabbage Groundsel to emerge at the Likii North hut at 3990m for camping. This is a short walking day, 3-4 hours, with an optional acclimatisation hike in afternoon up onto Terere peak.

Up the splendid Mackinder Valley trekking past peculiar looking giant groundsel and lobelia plants to arrive at Shipton’s camp at 4,236m for the night. This is a surreal setting below the towering peaks and glaciers, with its resident populations of bizarre rock hyrax and beautiful sunbirds.

Depart after breakfast and to ascend Hausberg col (4700m) then descend steeply to Hausberg valley and Oblong tarns before making a further steep ascent, crossing huge boulders via Two Tarn. After a picnic lunch break descend into Teleki valley and connect the Naromoru summit trail for a steep climb on a rocky track leading to Austrian Camp for the night – 4780m. This day’s summit circuit hike takes 5-6 hours. Climbing higher each day is excellent for acclimatisation.

Early start to reach Pt. Lenana at 4,895m for sunrise. The climb is on frozen scree with some scrambling on the ridge of the Lewis glacier. You need a bright head torch for this. The climb takes between 1 and 2 hours and to add to the exhilaration, Kilimanjaro is usually visible on the horizon. A further 2 – 3 hours down to Makinder’s camp for a hefty breakfast. After breakfast relax the rest of the day and stretch your tired legs

4 – 5 hour morning trek to Naromoru park gate (2600m) and connect with the vehicle for transfer back to Mountain Rock Lodge for a welcome hot shower and lunch before the journey back to Nairobi.