Mount Kenya Itineraries: 4, 5 and 6 Day Treks to Point Lenana

Point Lenana, at about 4,985 metres, is the highest point reachable without technical climbing gear, and the routes to it cross bamboo forest, moorland and rocky high-altitude terrain. The technical peaks, Batian and Nelion, are for experienced climbers only.

The plans below suggest realistic pacing. Altitude affects everyone, so build in time rather than rushing.

This guide is part of our Uganda road routes and driving guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Choosing a Route

Sirimon climbs gradually through forest and moorland and is a good ascent route for acclimatisation. Naro Moru is shorter and steeper with a boggy section. Chogoria is scenic, with gorges and lakes, and is popular for descents. Many trekkers go up Sirimon and down Chogoria or Naro Moru. See the Mount Kenya climbing and trekking guide for details.

Four-Day Trek: Sirimon Up, Naro Moru Down

• Day 1. Drive to the Sirimon gate and walk through forest and moorland to the first camp or hut.
• Day 2. Continue to higher camp, with short acclimatisation walks in the afternoon.
• Day 3. Summit attempt at dawn on Point Lenana, then descend to a lower camp.
• Day 4. Walk out to the gate and return to your hotel.

Five-Day Trek: Sirimon to Chogoria

• Day 1. Start on the Sirimon route to the first night.
• Day 2. Gain altitude gradually and rest in the afternoon.
• Day 3. Pre-dawn climb to Point Lenana, with views if the weather is clear.
• Day 4. Descend via the Chogoria route, with views of lakes and valleys.
• Day 5. Walk out and transfer to Nanyuki or Nairobi.

Six-Day Trek With Extra Acclimatisation

• Day 1. Walk through lower forest and moorland.
• Day 2. Rest or short hike to adjust to altitude.
• Day 3. Move to high camp.
• Day 4. Summit attempt at dawn, then descend.
• Day 5. Descend via a different route.
• Day 6. Exit and transfer.

Pacing, Health and Season

Altitude sickness can affect anyone, so ascend slowly, drink water and descend if symptoms worsen. Mornings are clearest, and the drier months of January to February and July to September generally give the best trekking conditions. Nights are freezing at height, so bring appropriate gear. See health and vaccinations and the packing list.

Preparing Before You Go

Good preparation makes the trek far more enjoyable. Train with long hill walks, break in your boots well before departure and practise using trekking poles. Arrange guides, porters and camp or hut bookings through a reputable operator, and carry a warm sleeping bag, waterproof layers, gloves and a hat, since conditions can change fast above the tree line. Spend a night at the foot of the mountain before you start so that you begin rested, and allow a spare day at the end of the trip in case weather delays your descent or your onward travel.

Adding a Safari

After descending, rest your legs on a game drive in Laikipia or relax in a conservancy. See Laikipia and Ol Pejeta, Lewa itineraries and Aberdare itineraries. If you also want Kilimanjaro, compare routes in the 7-day Machame route trek.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team