The Chogoria route is our recommended and arguably the most magnificent ascent route to the summit area. It is the driest route up the mountain and the walk beside the Gorges Valley truly spectacular. Although it is possible to ascend Point Lenana in a three day trip from Nairobi this is only for the fit and well-acclimatised. This trips allows 7 days with time to acclimatise and ascend the mountain in in safety (see our notes on High Altitude Hazards). It also provides time to explore and see the most beautiful areas such as the Parklands based in the relative comfort of the Meru Bandas (small clean huts with beds providing bed-linen, hot water showers, an open fire and an unreliable electricity supply).
Also the Nithi waterfall, caves and gorge. An ascent of Point Lenana involves some scrambling (walking over rough ground, sometimes using your hands). Although generally this is trouble free ascent if icy the summit may be too difficult to attempt. However the "Round the Peaks" circuit is justifiably a magnificent tour to complete offering ever new views of the summits, glaciers and tarns with their unique high altitude vegetation. The descent by the Sirimon Route takes one through some beautiful forest tracks and completes the traverse of the mountain.
Accommodation on the mountain is in roomy, two man double skin tents. You
will require a sleeping bag and mat. Warm water for washing is provided at
all campsites, a cook will prepare all meals, these always include
fresh vegetables and fruits.
This is a tough walking trip but within the limits of a fit individual used to walking in mountain areas.
Programme- Pick up from Airport or Nairobi in the morning. Drive to Chogoria Village
(3hrs), visit the market and have lunch in a restaurant before driving in a 4WD
vehicle up the rough forest track to the Meru Mt Kenya Bandas. Short
game-viewing walk in the Parklands in the afternoon.
- Gentle walk to the Nithi Gates, explore the Nithi Falls and Gorge after lunch.
- Walk up the ridge overlooking Gorges Valley to Hall Tarns campsite. This is a fine location with dramatic views to the summits and Lake Michaelson.
- Follow beside the upper Gorges Valley to Square Tarn, continue via
Top Hut to American Camp located on the highest meadow in Teleki Valley below
the South Face of Mt Kenya. Point Lenana can be climbed along the way - either
from the north or from the south (Top Hut) depending on conditions.
- Complete the "Round the Peaks Circuit" past several beautiful tarns to reach
Shipton Camp, below the North Face of the mountain.
- Descend the Sirimon Route to Judmeier Camp at the upper edge of the forest belt.
- Continue down the Sirimon Gate and waiting transport. Drive back to Nairobi (to
hotel or Airport) with lunch en-route.
 Watch movie on YouTube - Chogoria Route: Part 1
Watch movie on YouTube - Chogoria Route: Part 2
(press HQ for High Quality)
The programme is available as a private trip all the year round (prices). Or join one of our fixed scheduled trip departure dates. Prices:
Include: - park fees,
- porters,
- guides,
- cook,
- camping equipment,
- transport from Nairobi hotel or airport and back.
- Scheduled trip costs include a $35 contribution towards one of several Kenyan schools in a deprived area (more information).
Exclude:- breakfast on day 1 and dinner on day 7/
- extra drinks
- tips.
This trip is in line with our aims to help charities and organisations working to improve conditions in overseas areas we are associated with by direct help. (See our Responsible Travel Policy).
See also: hotel details, safari extensions, coast extensions, weather.
Chogoria Route Photo Gallery
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Meru Bandas, Mugi Hill behind
Hall Tarns at Sunrise
Driving through the Parklands
NorthFace of Batian and Nelion
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