8-Day Mount Kenya & Rift Valley Hiking Safari: Summit Point Lenana, Hell’s Gate & Mount Longonot Adventure

8 DAYS HIKING SAFARI

During this 8-day safari, you’ll be able to hike through Mount Kenya, an extinct volcano and Africa’s second-highest peak. The mountain presents a formidable challenge and an exhilarating adventure for hikers around the world. With its majestic summit reaching 5,199 meters (17,057 feet), it beckons adventurers to explore its rugged landscapes and diverse ecosystems.

Day 01: Nairobi – Mount Kenya

You will be picked up by our driver guide from your Nairobi hotel/airport and driven to Nanyuki town. Arrive in Nanyuki town, check in, and have lunch at Naromoru River Lodge. Relax as you prepare for your hiking journey on the next day. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Day 02: Hiking Mount Kenya

Spend the morning sorting and organizing equipment for the mountain trek and be driven to the Sirimon Gate [2660m]. Register and begin the trek from Sirimon Gate. The trail ascends through the montane forest, bamboo, and giant heather zones. You’ll be able to spot various bird species and possibly some wildlife along the trail. Stop for a packed lunch along the trail, enjoying the serene environment and the fresh mountain air. Resume the hike, entering the high-altitude moorland. In the afternoon, proceed to Old Moses Camp [3300m]. Take time to explore the camp area, enjoy the views, and relax. Dinner and overnight at Old Moses Camp.

Day 03: Old Moses Camp [Judmaier Camp] – Shipton Camp

Wake up early and have a hearty breakfast at Old Moses Camp. Begin your hike from the camp. The trail starts with a gentle ascent through the high-altitude moorland. Pass through the Liki North Valley, enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Continue hiking towards the Mackinder Valley. The trail becomes steeper as you approach the valley. Stop for a packed lunch in the Mackinder Valley. Take some time to rest and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Resume your hike, following the trail through the picturesque Mackinder Valley. The landscape here is dotted with unique alpine plants and rugged terrain. Arrive at Shipton Camp [4236m], take some time to explore the camp area, relax, and acclimatize to the higher altitude. Settle into your accommodation at Shipton Camp and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Batian and Nelion. Have an early dinner and prepare for the next day’s activities.

Day 04: Mount Kenya Summit & Descent

Wake up early at Shipton Camp and have a light breakfast. Begin the ascent to Point Lenana. The trail is steep and can be challenging, especially in the dark, so headlamps are essential. Reach Point Lenana [4985m] in time for sunrise. On a clear day, you can see Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance. Spend some time at the summit, taking in the breathtaking views and capturing photos. In the afternoon, walk down to Vivian Falls, enjoying the great views of the Gorges Valley. Descend to Minto’s Hut for a full breakfast. Back to the camp for dinner and overnight in tents.

Day 05: Mount Kenya Meru Bandas

After breakfast, descend down to Mount Kenya Meru Bandas along the Gorges Valley where you can enjoy good views of Lake Michaelson, Giant Billiards Table, The Temple, and Mushroom rocks. Overnight stay in tents.

Day 06: Mount Kenya – Hell’s Gate National Park

You will be picked up from Meru Bandas and driven through beautiful natural forests to Chogoria town, then to Nanyuki town. Drive from Mount Kenya to Hell’s Gate National Park for approximately 4 to 5 hours. Check in and have lunch upon arrival. Proceed to Fischer’s Tower and try some rock climbing or simply enjoy the views and take some photos. Hike towards the Central Tower and Ol Njorowa Gorge. Explore the geological formations and enjoy the scenic beauty. Have a picnic lunch at a designated spot. Make sure to carry enough water and snacks. Begin your hike through the Ol Njorowa Gorge. This hike takes 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and the route you choose. Explore the gorge, hot springs, and steam vents. Dinner and overnight at Elsamere.

Day 07: Hell’s Gate National Park – Mount Longonot

Have an early breakfast and drive to Mount Longonot National Park. Begin your hike from the park gate. The initial trail is a 3.1 km ascent to the crater rim. This section is steep and can be challenging, but the views are rewarding. Take a short break to enjoy the panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley and the dense forest within the crater. Continue your hike around the 7.2 km loop encircling the crater rim. This part of the hike offers stunning views and is less steep than the initial ascent. Find a scenic spot along the rim to enjoy your packed lunch. The summit, Kilele Ngamia at 2,776 meters above sea level, is a great place to rest and take in breathtaking scenery. Continue your hike around the crater rim, completing the loop and heading back down to the park gate. The descent can be easier but still requires caution due to the steep and sometimes eroded paths. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as buffaloes, zebras, and various bird species that inhabit the park. Return to your hotel in Naivasha for dinner and overnight.

Day 08: Naivasha – Nairobi

After breakfast, you’ll be driven back to Nairobi and dropped off at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your international flight back home.

Highlights for the Hike:

• Ensure you are in good physical condition as these hikes can be demanding.
• Bring appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy boots, warm clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and rain gear.
• Consider hiring a local guide for safety and to enhance your experience.
• Ensure you have all necessary permits for the hikes, especially for Mount Kenya.
• The best time for hiking Mount Kenya is from July to August and November to February.