Quite a challenge. The ascend to the base of the high peaks of Mt Kenya is steady and longer hence a real test on individual fitness. Descent through Sirimon is more or less gradual and at a comfortable pace. This itinerary includes mandatory camping at Mintos on day 2 but unless preferred the rest of the nights can be in the huts available along the way.
Tip: Day 2′s hike is a long one involving a steady climb up to Mintos. Hikers who are not limited by time can take an overnight stopover at the Nithi Camp (3300m) mid-way to Mintos. From here they can explore the nearby Nithi Falls or climb Mugi hill (3500m) for better acclimatisation. Alternatively you can hike directly to Mintos/Halltarn and spend an extra day here instead to recuperate and explore the Gorges Valley which also accords you a better acclimatization due to the higher altitude.
| DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION | Nairobi – JKIA Airport or Nairobi hotel | |||||||
| DEPARTURE TIME | Early Morning | |||||||
| RETURN TIME | Late afternoon | |||||||
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Day 1: Nairobi – Mt Kenya Bandas (2,900m) 3hrs, 10km walk, 950m ascent.
After pick up in Nairobi, we drive through agricultural country up to Chogoria town for lunch. After lunch, we take 4×4 and drive up to the edge of the bamboo forest where we start our trek through the dense bamboo forest for distance of 10 km up to the Mt Kenya Bandas. Dinner and overnight at the Mount Kenya Bandas. (3000m)
Day 2: Mt Kenya Bandas – Minto`s campsite ( 4,200m) 8-9 hrs, 17km, 1,400 ascent.
Today you commence early for a long trek on a wide track through the forest, with occasional sightings of elephant, bushbuck, buffalo and impala. Emerging from the forest, you walk through heather before crossing the Nithi River to reach the moorlands from where you can enjoy good views of the picturesque Gorges Valley, the Temple, lakes, mushroom rocks, billiards table and the high peaks. Total walking time approx. 8 hours, picnic lunch en route.
Day 3: Minto`s – Pt Lenana ( 4,985m) Judmiere Camp (3,300m) 11-12 hrs, 785m ascent, 24km walk, 1,685m descent
Predawn attempt of the summit starts at 0300hrs and you hike for about three hours up to point Lenana (4,985m), the hikers summit, arriving there for the African sunrise. Descend Shipton`s camp for breafast. After breakfast, begin a 5 hour descent via Mackinder`s valley to the Judmiere camp. ( 3,300m) The descent is gentle and it offers ample time to enjoy fascinating scenery which includes the moorlands before reaching the camp. Dinner and overnight at judmiere camp.
Day 4: Judmiere Camp – Nairobi. 2 hrs walk.
After early morning breakfast, descend for 3 hours to the Sirimon Park gate to catch a vehicle for the return journey to Nanyuki for lunch. Later transfer back to Nairobi arriving by 1700hrs.
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