From
Duration
Max People
Min Age
Tour Type
Overview
During this 8-day safari, you'll hike Mount Kenya, an extinct volcano and Africa's second-highest peak. The mountain presents a formidable challenge and an exhilarating adventure, with a summit reaching 5,199 meters (17,057 feet) and rugged landscapes and diverse ecosystems to explore.
The journey continues to the Great Rift Valley, with guided hikes in Hell's Gate National Park and Mount Longonot.
Trip Highlights
- 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.
Activities
- Nature Walk
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1: 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 2: 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 3: 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 4: 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 5: 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 6: 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 7: 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 8: 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.
What's included?
Included in Your Trip Cost
- Accommodation
- Meals as per itinerary
- National Park entrance fees
- Professional Tour guide
- Tour Van or Land cruiser
- Drinking water
Not Included in Your Trip Cost
- International Flights
- Tips
- Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
- Laundry
What Our Guests Say
Our guests review us on independent sites. Read what they say about their safaris with Cherish Africa Safaris:
Request a Free Quote
Tell us your dates and group size — we’ll reply within 24 hours with a tailored quote. No payment needed.
- Free, no-obligation quote within 24 hours
- Tailor-made itineraries for your dates & budget
- Private safari vehicle & expert local guides
- Meet & pick-up in Nairobi, support throughout your trip