Arrow Trekking and Safaris – Conquer Africa’s most iconic peaks with expertly crafted mountain adventures.
Trip Overview
This 6-day trek is designed for those looking for an authentic wilderness experience. The Burguret Route is one of the least traveled paths on Mount Kenya, allowing trekkers to explore untouched rainforests, encounter diverse wildlife, and immerse themselves in nature. The final ascent to Point Lenana (4,985m) is challenging but rewarding, offering breathtaking sunrise views. The descent via Chogoria Route takes you through dramatic escarpments, glacial lakes, and high-altitude moorlands, making it one of the most scenic treks on the mountain.
Trip Highlight
- Short yet scenic trek to Point Lenana (4,985m)
- Beautiful montane forests, moorlands, and glaciers
- Camp in scenic locations beneath starlit skies.
- Cultural Experience: Interact with local porters and guides.
- Professional Support: Experienced guides and porters.
Itineray
Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Nairobi to Naro Moru, a charming town at the foothills of Mount Kenya. Upon arrival, you'll check into your comfortable lodge, where you'll meet your expert guide from Arrow Trekking and Safaris for a detailed pre-trek briefing.
Your guide will go over:
Route plan and expectations
Safety precautions and altitude awareness
Gear check to ensure you have all essentials
Final preparations before your trek begins the next day
You'll also have some free time to explore Naro Moru, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and relax before your adventure.
Meals: Dinner
Overnight Stay: Lodge in Naro Moru
Altitude: 1,950m → 2,800m
Distance: 10km / 6.2 miles
Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Montane Rainforest & Bamboo Forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, you'll take a short drive to Gathiuru Forest, where your trek officially begins. This day’s hike is an immersive journey through dense rainforest, with towering trees, vines, and lush green canopies teeming with wildlife. You may encounter colobus monkeys, elephants, bushbucks, and a variety of exotic birds.
As you ascend, the forest transitions into dense bamboo before reaching Giant Bamboo Camp (2,800m). Here, you'll enjoy a warm meal, campfire storytelling, and stargazing before a well-earned rest in your tent.
Altitude: 2,800m → 3,700m
Distance: 12km / 7.5 miles
Trekking Time: 6-7 hours
Habitat: Bamboo Forest & Alpine Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, you'll continue through the thick bamboo forests, which gradually thin out, revealing heather and moorlands filled with giant lobelias and unique mountain flora.
The trek gets steeper and rockier, and you’ll cross several ridges, offering stunning views of Mount Kenya’s peaks. You'll arrive at Highland Castle Camp (3,700m), a scenic spot named for the dramatic rock formations resembling ancient castles.
After setting up camp, watch the golden sunset over the valleys before enjoying a delicious hot meal prepared by our expert cooks.
Altitude: 3,700m → 4,200m
Distance: 8km / 5 miles
Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Moorland & High-Altitude Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today's trek offers some of the most spectacular landscapes on Mount Kenya. You'll pass large rock formations, glacial streams, and alpine meadows, with stunning views of Batian and Nelion peaks.
Upon arrival at Shipton’s Camp (4,200m), you'll rest and prepare for your early morning summit attempt.
Altitude: 4,200m → 4,985m → 4,200m
Distance: 12km / 7.5 miles
Trekking Time: 10-12 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert & Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Your summit push begins at 3:00 AM, trekking under the stars to reach Point Lenana (4,985m) for sunrise. The final stretch is steep and challenging, but the reward is worth it – panoramic views of Mount Kenya, the Great Rift Valley, and even Mount Kilimanjaro on a clear day.
After celebrating your achievement, you’ll descend via the Chogoria Route, passing Lake Michaelson and deep gorges, before reaching Mintos Camp (4,200m).
Altitude: 4,200m → 2,950m
Distance: 14km / 8.7 miles
Trekking Time: 6-7 hours
Habitat: Moorland & Heathland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Descending through the Gorges Valley, today’s trek is filled with waterfalls, rolling hills, and rock formations. The day ends at Meru Bandas (2,950m), where you can enjoy hot showers, comfortable beds, and a warm fireplace.
Altitude: 2,950m → 1,950m
Distance: 10km / 6.2 miles
Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
The final trek descends through lush montane forest, where you may spot buffalo, bushbucks, and colorful birds. A 4x4 vehicle will transfer you to Chogoria town, where you’ll have lunch before driving back to Nairobi.
Includes/Excludes
Includes
- Park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees.
- Professional mountain guides, porters, and cooks.
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary.
- Tents and sleeping mats.
- Transportation to and from the mountain gate.
Excludes
- International flights and visas.
- Personal trekking gear (can be rented).
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for guides, porters, and cook.
- Beverages and personal expenses.
Trip Map
Gallery
FAQs
Mount Kenya is located in central Kenya, about 175 km north of Nairobi. It is the second-highest mountain in Africa, standing at 5,199 meters (17,057 feet).
The highest point accessible to trekkers is Point Lenana (4,985m / 16,355 ft). The two higher peaks, Batian (5,199m) and Nelion (5,188m), require technical climbing.
The best route depends on your experience and preferences:
- Sirimon Route – Easiest and most gradual ascent, great for beginners.
- Naro Moru Route – Shortest but steep; can be challenging due to the “Vertical Bog.”
- Chogoria Route – Most scenic but requires more time.
- Burguret Route – Remote and less crowded, ideal for experienced trekkers.
The summit success rate is high, around 85-90%, due to the gradual ascent and shorter trekking days.
Yes, you need a Mount Kenya National Park entry permit, which is included in guided trekking packages.
Mount Kenya treks range from moderate to challenging, depending on the route. The Sirimon and Naro Moru routes are relatively easier, while Chogoria is more scenic but demanding. Proper acclimatization is key to a successful summit.
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