Mt Kenya has somehow acquired the reputation of being an easy climb… it’s not! People who underestimate this mountain and set off unprepared for the conditions usually have a miserable time due to the cold and altitude. Trekkers who do not spend enough time acclimatizing will often suffer from some form of altitude sickness, and this is one of the main reasons why over 25% of attempts fail. By allowing an extra day on the mountain you will stand a better chance of reaching Point Lenana, and have a more enjoyable climb. Hiring a porter to help carry some of the heavy gear will also improve your chances of getting to the top. The other consideration is that you are not permitted to trek alone and hiring a porter will overcome the regulation of having a minimum group size of two.

There are three main routes up to the peaks area – Naro Moru, Sirimon, and Chogoria.

Naro Moru Route

The most popular and fastest route to Pt Lenana. It is the least scenic of the main routes but has easy access from the main road and reasonable facilities in the form of bunkhouses and camping. Being the most direct route it is easy to follow but can be steep and boggy in places.

Sirimon Route

The least used of the main routes of ascent. Because it is on the drier side of the mountain, this route offers superb forest walking, open scenery with wonderful alpine vegetation, and the chance of spotting wildlife on the lower slopes.

Chogoria Route

This route is the longest but also the most beautiful and spectacular way by which to ascend the mountain. Wonderful views for most of the climb, particularly in the upper sections with its glacial lakes, giant groundsel, lobelia and weird volcanic formations inhabited by rock hyrax.

These routes can be combined to traverse the mountain by going up one side and down the other, the most popular being the Sirimon – Chogoria route.

For most routes, a minimum 3-4 days should be allowed from the road heads or 5-6 days if departing from Nairobi. If you plan on trekking around the peaks, allow an extra 1 or 2 days to really enjoy the mountain.