Mount Kenya is Africa's second highest peak -- and its best-kept secret. While Kilimanjaro draws the crowds, Kenya's national mountain offers more varied routes, richer ecology, and an equally stunning summit, all within a wildlife-rich national park. This eight-day expedition pairs the Sirimon-Chogoria traverse -- the finest route on the mountain -- with a pre-trek wildlife safari at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy on the Laikipia Plateau, home to the last northern white rhinos and superb Big Five viewing. A bucket-list adventure that goes beyond the ordinary.
Trip Highlights
Day By Day Itinerary
Day 1
Drive north from Nairobi (approx 3.5 hours) to Nanyuki, gateway to Mount Kenya and the Laikipia Plateau. Afternoon game drive at Ol Pejeta Conservancy -- Kenya's best Big Five conservancy -- and a visit to the last two northern white rhinos.
Day 2
A full day in Ol Pejeta. Morning drive tracking lion, cheetah, wild dog, and elephant. Afternoon at the chimpanzee sanctuary. A remarkable conservancy experience before the mountain.
Day 3
Transfer to Sirimon Gate (2,600m). Trek through cedar forest and bamboo into the heather zone. Arrive at Old Moses Camp as mist rolls in from the Aberdares.
Day 4
Ascend through increasingly alien moorland -- giant lobelias taller than you, groundsel trees dripping with lichen. Arrive at Shipton's Camp beneath the dramatic main peaks.
Day 5
Acclimatisation hike to Austrian Hut for views of Batian and Nelion peaks and the glaciers. Return to Shipton's for an early dinner and sleep in preparation for tomorrow's push.
Day 6
Midnight departure for the summit. The rocky approach in the dark gives way to the crater rim as the first light appears. Continue to Point Lenana for a full sunrise over Kenya. Descend via the beautiful Chogoria route past Hall Tarns.
Day 7
Continue the Chogoria descent through pristine montane forest. Emerge at the roadhead for transfer to Moshi or Meru. Celebratory dinner and official summit certificate presentation.
Day 8
Drive back to Nairobi for your international departure, or extend with a Laikipia bush camp for a final wildlife safari. Your Sky Wild Safaris team handles everything either way.
What's Included & Excluded
Included
Excluded
Customise This Trip
Want to extend this safari, add a beach stay, or adjust the accommodation level? Our team will tailor every detail to your wishes.
Inquire Now