Mount Kenya: Sirimon Route

Overview

The Sirimon route climbs Mount Kenya from the north-west through moorland and giant lobelia to Point Lenana at 4,985m — the trekking summit, reachable without technical climbing. The gentler gradient makes it the best profile for acclimatisation.

Trip Highlights

• Point Lenana summit at 4,985m
• Sunrise over the Nanyuki plains from the summit
• Afro-alpine moorland, giant lobelia and groundsel
• Best acclimatisation profile of the three main routes

Day By Day

1. 01
   Day 1

   Nairobi → Old Moses Camp (3,300m)

   Drive to Sirimon Gate via Nanyuki. Register and begin the trek through montane forest to Old Moses Camp. Roughly 3–4 hours walking.

2. 02
   Day 2

   Old Moses → Shipton's Camp (4,200m)

   A long day across the Mackinder Valley through open moorland and giant lobelia. 6–7 hours. Afternoon rest and acclimatisation walk.

3. 03
   Day 3

   Summit Point Lenana (4,985m) → Old Moses

   A 3:00 AM start for the summit push, reaching Point Lenana for sunrise over the plains. Descend to Shipton's for breakfast, then continue down to Old Moses.

4. 04
   Day 4

   Descend → Nairobi

   Final descent to Sirimon Gate, lunch in Nanyuki and the drive back to Nairobi.