7 Days Mount Kenya Sirimon – Likii North – Shipton’s – Mackinder’s – Chogoria
A varied seven-day traverse combining Sirimon, the quieter Likii North trail, high camps, Point Lenana and the Chogoria descent.
Duration:
7 Days / 6 Nights Route:
Sirimon Gate – Old Moses – Likii North – Shipton’s Camp – Mackinder’s Camp – Point Lenana – Chogoria Bandas – Chogoria Gate Difficulty:
Difficult
The Experience
Overview
This seven-day Mount Kenya trek combines the Sirimon approach with the quieter Likii North trail, Shipton’s Camp, Mackinder’s Valley and a descent through the Chogoria side. Extra time at high altitude is intended to support acclimatization before the Point Lenana summit attempt. The route includes alpine moorland, high valleys, views of Batian and Nelion, the Gorges Valley and the Lake Michaelson viewpoint, with an overnight at Chogoria Bandas. Route and camp choices may be adjusted by the guide for weather, trail and park conditions.
The Journey
Trek Gallery
Mt Kenya GoMt Kenya Expedition (7)
Why This Expedition
Tour Highlights
Explore the Likii North route and overnight at Likii North Camp.
Trek through Mackinder’s Valley.
Spend time at Shipton’s Camp and Mackinder’s Camp.
Summit Point Lenana at 4,985 m, weather permitting.
Descend via Mintos, Gorges Valley and the Lake Michaelson viewpoint.
Overnight at Chogoria Bandas before exiting the park.
Drive from Nairobi through Nanyuki to Sirimon Gate. After park registration, trek through forest and bamboo into moorland. Distance about 9 km; 3–4 hours; Old Moses approximately 3,300 m. Meals: lunch and dinner. Overnight at Old Moses Camp.
Day
2
Old Moses Camp – Likii North Camp
Follow the Likii North variation across high moorland with giant heather and tussock grass. Climb gradually to Likii North Camp at approximately 3,990–4,000 m. Distance about 10–12 km; 5–7 hours. Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner. Overnight at Likii North Camp.
Day
3
Likii North Camp – Shipton’s Camp
Cross the ridge and join the upper route toward Mackinder’s Valley. Continue through rugged alpine scenery with views of Batian, Nelion and Point Lenana. Distance about 7–9 km; 4–6 hours; Shipton’s Camp approximately 4,200 m. Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner. Overnight at Shipton’s Camp.
Day
4
Shipton’s Camp – Mackinder’s Camp
Traverse high alpine terrain around the upper mountain, with views of the peaks, tarns and valleys. Depending on conditions, the guide may use the Hausberg area before descending toward Mackinder’s Valley. Distance about 8–10 km; 5–7 hours. Walk slowly and hydrate. Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner. Overnight at Mackinder’s Camp.
Day
5
Mackinder’s Camp – Point Lenana – Shipton’s Camp
Start around 2:30–3:00 a.m. and ascend to Point Lenana (4,985 m) for sunrise, weather permitting. Descend carefully to Shipton’s Camp. Distance about 10–14 km; 7–9 hours. Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner. Overnight at Shipton’s Camp.
Day
6
Shipton’s Camp – Mintos/Mackinder’s Valley – Chogoria Bandas
Descend toward the Chogoria side through the alpine zone. Depending on conditions, pass the Mintos area, Gorges Valley and Lake Michaelson viewpoint before continuing through heather and forest to Chogoria Bandas at about 2,950–3,000 m. Distance about 16–20 km; 8–10 hours. Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner. Overnight at Chogoria Bandas.
Day
7
Chogoria Bandas – Chogoria Gate – Chogoria Town – Nairobi
Continue downhill through forest toward Chogoria Gate, meet the vehicle and transfer via Chogoria town to Nairobi. Walking time about 3–4 hours depending on starting point and vehicle access. Meals: breakfast and lunch.
Included
What's Included
Transport from the agreed meeting point to Mount Kenya and back.
Mount Kenya National Park entry fees.
Professional mountain guide, porters and cook.
Mountain accommodation/camping as arranged.
Tents and camping equipment where applicable.
Meals as indicated in the itinerary.
Camping fees and Point Lenana summit attempt.
Chogoria-side transfer after the trek.
Basic first-aid support and applicable park charges.
Not Included
What's Not Included
Personal hiking equipment and sleeping bag unless specifically included.
Travel insurance and evacuation costs if required.
Personal expenses, tips, drinks and snacks.
Accommodation before or after the trek.
International flights, visa/entry costs and services not listed as included.
When To Go
Best Time to Trek
The commonly preferred drier trekking windows are January–March and July–October. Mountain weather remains unpredictable throughout the year, so expect cold nights, possible rain and changing trail conditions. Allow the guide to adjust the itinerary for acclimatisation and safety.
Prepare For The Mountain
What to Pack
PACKING CHECKLIST
Clothing: moisture-wicking base layers, warm fleece and insulated jacket, waterproof and windproof outer layers, trekking trousers, thermal layers, warm hat, sun hat and warm gloves.
Footwear: broken-in waterproof trekking boots, camp shoes and several pairs of trekking socks.
Equipment: daypack and rain cover, headlamp with spare batteries, trekking poles, water bottles or hydration system, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm and a dry bag for valuables.
Personal items: toiletries, quick-drying towel, personal medication, blister care, basic first-aid supplies, travel insurance details and identification.
The route crosses varied mountain terrain. Confirm sleeping equipment, porter limits and any operator-supplied gear before travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
Why does this itinerary include Likii North?
The Likii North area adds a quieter high-mountain approach and scenery to the Sirimon-side trek. The precise route taken depends on current trail conditions, weather and the guide’s assessment.
Does the trip include Point Lenana?
The itinerary is planned around a Point Lenana summit attempt, subject to weather, altitude health and safe conditions.
How difficult is this trek?
It is a challenging multi-day trek at high altitude. Good fitness, preparation and following the guide’s acclimatisation advice are important.
What should I bring?
Bring broken-in hiking boots, layered warm clothing, waterproof outerwear, a headlamp, sun protection, personal medication and a suitable daypack. Request the operator’s full packing list before travel.
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