Mount Kenya by the Chogoria Route
Grade B or C Fully
supported
The Sirimon or Naro Moru Routes may be used for ascent. This is however our
recommended ascent route.
This is the most magnificent route to the summit area. It is possible
to
ascend Point Lenana in a three day trip from Nairobi, this is, however,
only
for the well-acclimatised. It is best to devote a few extra days to the
ascent.
These days can be spent exploring: 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). OR the roadhead area with its nearby Nithi waterfall and gorge. OR Lakes Ellis and Alice. OR the Hall Tarn area.
The route is often combined with an ascent of Point Lenana or the Round the Peaks Walk. The descent may be made by the Chogoria Route or if looking for variety
by
the Sirimon or Naro Moru Routes, both are attractive but boggy underfoot.
Those
with more time available and a spirit for adventure should consider
approaching
by the mountain by the Ithanguni and then Chogoria Route and
descend by the
Chogoria. Point Lenana may be tackled from any of the high camps or from Top Hut. If
it
is tackled from Hall Tarns a pre-dawn start is recommended in order to
enjoy
the best views and dramatic sunrise. Ski sticks are useful when ascending
the
scree to the summit.
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.
Typical Programme - Transfer from airport to the Fairview Hotel (B&B).
- 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 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. Magnificent views
of
Vivienne Falls and Lake Michaelson.
- Cross Simba Col to reach Kami Tarn below the glaciated North Face of Batian.
- Continue past Hausberg and other tarns to reach American Camp, the
highest
meadow in the Teleki Valley.
- An early start to gain Point Lenana shortly after dawn. Descend to Top Hut
for
lunch then complete the Round the Peak Walk and descend to Hall Tarns.
- Descend to the Parklands and drive back to the Fairview Hotel in Nairobi.
- Depart after breakfast. Transfer to airport.
| The programme is available all the year round. Prices are all inclusive airport to airport except for: the hotel is on a bed
and
breakfast basis, extra drinks and tips. See also hotel details and facilities, safari extensions, coast extensions, weather. 
Meru Bandas, Mugi Hill behind
Hall Tarns at Sunrise
Driving through the Parklands
NorthFace of Batian and Nelion
|
