6-Day Mount Kenya Trek Chogoria Route

Day 1: Nairobi – Chogoria Town – Chogoria Gate (2,850m)
Depart Nairobi in the morning and drive toward Chogoria Town, passing through fertile farmlands and views of Mount Kenya’s eastern flanks. After lunch in Chogoria, continue by 4×4 through the forest reserve, climbing steadily toward the park boundary. Enjoy sightings of monkeys, forest birds, bamboo zones, and waterfalls along the way. Arrive at Chogoria Gate in the afternoon, settle into camp, and take a short acclimatization walk to stretch your legs. Dinner and overnight at Chogoria Gate Camp.

Day 2: Chogoria Gate – Lake Ellis (3,450m)
After breakfast, begin your trek through heather and moorland landscapes with occasional views of the rolling valleys below. The trail is gentle and scenic, offering excellent opportunities for photography. Arrive at Lake Ellis in time for lunch, surrounded by beautiful alpine scenery. Spend the afternoon exploring the lakeshore, taking an acclimatization hike up nearby Mugi Hill, or relaxing by camp. Dinner and overnight at Lake Ellis Camp.

Day 3: Lake Ellis – Lake Michaelson (3,950m)
Today’s trek is one of the most rewarding on the eastern side of Mount Kenya. Follow a moderately steep trail toward the spectacular Gorges Valley viewpoint, offering sweeping panoramas of cliffs, waterfalls, and the dramatic Mount Kenya peaks. Continue descending slightly into the cirque that holds the magnificent Lake Michaelson—a turquoise jewel set beneath towering rock walls. Arrive at camp in the early afternoon, relax by the lake, and enjoy the quiet alpine environment. Dinner and overnight at Lake Michaelson Camp.

Day 4: Lake Michaelson – Mintos Camp (4,300m)
After breakfast, climb out of the deep Michaelson basin and trek along the Chogoria ridge with breathtaking views of the Temple, Hall Tarns, and the jagged peaks of Batian and Nelion. The ascent is steady but manageable, and the stunning alpine backdrop makes it a highlight of the trek. Arrive at Mintos Hut (also called Mintos Camp) for lunch. Spend the afternoon relaxing, exploring the Mintos Tarn area, or preparing for the summit attempt. Early dinner and overnight at Mintos Camp.

Day 5: Mintos Camp – Point Lenana (4,985m) – Old Moses/Sirimon Gate
Wake up around 2:30am to begin your summit push under the stars. Ascend steadily toward Point Lenana, reaching the summit at sunrise for unforgettable 360-degree views of the glowing peaks, moorlands, and plains stretching far below. After celebrating and taking photos, descend via the Sirimon Route toward Shipton’s Camp for breakfast. Continue descending through alpine zones and moorlands to Old Moses Camp or Sirimon Gate. Transfer by vehicle to your lodge in Nanyuki. Dinner and overnight at a Nanyuki hotel.

Day 6: Nanyuki – Nairobi
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your lodge before driving back to Nairobi. Arrive in the early afternoon, marking the end of your Mount Kenya Chogoria adventure.