About This Tour
The Chogoria Route is widely regarded as the most scenic route on Mount Kenya, approaching the mountain from the eastern side through Chogoria Town. It offers breathtaking landscapes, including lush montane forests, bamboo zones, waterfalls, the dramatic Gorges Valley, Lake Ellis, Lake Michaelson, and Hall Tarns. Although it is longer than some other routes, its spectacular scenery and diverse ecosystems make it a favorite among hikers and photographers. The route typically takes 4–6 days and is often combined with the Sirimon Route for a rewarding traverse across the mountain.
Highlights
What’s Included
- Transport from Nairobi and back
- Park entry fees Professional English-speaking mountain guid
- Assistant guides (where necessary) Porters All meals during the trek
- Accommodation in mountain camps/huts Drinking water
- Cook and kitchen equipment Emergency first aid kit
- International and domestic flights Kenya visa (where applicable)
- Travel and medical insurance Personal hiking gea
- Sleeping bag (available for hire) Tips for guides, porters, and cook Personal expenses (drinks, snacks, souvenirs, etc.)
Tour Plan
Expand allCollapse allDay 1: Nairobi – Chogoria Gate – Lake Ellis Camp (3,450 m)
Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Nairobi at 5:00 AM. Enjoy a scenic drive through Kenya's central highlands, passing coffee and tea plantations before arriving in Chogoria Town. After completing park entry formalities at Chogoria Gate, continue by 4×4 vehicle to the road head.
From the road head, begin your trek through bamboo forest, giant heather, and alpine moorland to the beautiful Lake Ellis Camp (3,450 m). The lake offers stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks and is an excellent place to acclimatize. Spend the evening enjoying the peaceful alpine scenery before dinner and an overnight stay at the camp.
- Driving Time: 5–6 hours
- Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
- Distance: Approx. 9 km
- Meals: Lunch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Lake Ellis Camp
Day 2: Lake Ellis Camp – Minto's Camp (4,200 m)
After breakfast, continue trekking through the scenic Chogoria Route, passing alpine tarns, rocky outcrops, and expansive moorlands. The trail offers magnificent views of Gorges Valley, Temple Cliffs, and the dramatic peaks of Batian and Nelion.
Arrive at Minto's Camp (4,200 m) in the afternoon. If weather permits, take a short walk to the famous Viewpoint, where you'll enjoy breathtaking views over the Gorges Valley and surrounding landscapes.
- Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
- Distance: Approx. 14 km
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Minto's Cam
Day 3: Minto's Camp – Point Lenana (4,985 m) – Old Moses Camp (3,300 m)
Wake up around 2:00 AM for the summit attempt. Trek under the stars to Point Lenana (4,985 m), reaching the summit in time to witness a spectacular sunrise over Mount Kenya, with views extending to Mount Kilimanjaro on a clear day.
After celebrating your achievement, descend via Shipton's Camp and the beautiful Mackinder Valley to Old Moses Camp (3,300 m) on the Sirimon Route. This is the longest and most rewarding day of the trek.
- Trekking Time: 10–12 hours
- Distance: Approx. 22 km
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Old Moses Camp
Day 4: Old Moses Camp – Sirimon Gate – Nairobi
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely descent through the rainforest to Sirimon Gate. Meet your driver and begin the journey back to Nairobi, arriving in the afternoon. You will be dropped off at your hotel, residence, or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, marking the end of your Mount Kenya adventure.
- Trekking Time: 2–3 hours
- Distance: Approx. 9 km
- Driving Time: 4–5 hours
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch




