Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya and the second highest in Africa after Kilimanjaro. It is one of the best hiking and trekking destinations in East Africa. With beautiful landscapes, alpine forests, moorlands, glaciers, and amazing wildlife, climbing Mt Kenya is a dream for many adventurers.
If you are planning your trek, understanding the different Mount Kenya climbing routes is very important. Each route offers a unique experience, scenery, difficulty level, and hiking duration. In this guide, we explore the best Mount Kenya trekking routes, including popular paths like Sirimon and Chogoria.
Contents
- 1 Overview of Mount Kenya Climbing Routes
- 2 Mt Kenya Sirimon Route: The Most Popular Trekking Path
- 3 Why Choose Sirimon Route?
- 4 Mount Kenya Chogoria Route: The Most Scenic Option
- 5 Highlights of Chogoria Route
- 6 Naro Moru Route: The Fastest but Steepest Route
- 7 Burguret and Timau Routes: Remote and Wild Adventures
- 8 Mount Kenya Hike Price: What to Expect
- 9 Final Thoughts
Overview of Mount Kenya Climbing Routes
Mount Kenya has several trekking routes leading to Point Lenana (4,985m), which is the most climbed peak by hikers. The main routes include:
- Sirimon Route
- Chogoria Route
- Naro Moru Route
- Burguret Route
- Timau Route
Most climbers choose Sirimon or Chogoria because they offer the best combination of scenery and gradual ascent.
When searching online, many people look for a Mt Kenya routes map or a Mount Kenya climbing routes map to compare trails before booking.
Mt Kenya Sirimon Route: The Most Popular Trekking Path
The Mt Kenya Sirimon Route is one of the best and most recommended routes for climbing Mount Kenya. It starts from the northwest side of the mountain, near Nanyuki town.
Check out this 4 Days Mount Kenya Sirimon route trek organized by local guides in Kenya.
Why Choose Sirimon Route?
- Gentle and gradual ascent
- Less crowded than Naro Moru
- Great for acclimatization
- Beautiful views of the mountain peaks
The Sirimon route passes through forest zones, bamboo, and open moorlands with unique plants like giant lobelias.
Many Climbing Mt Kenya packages use Sirimon for ascent and combine it with Chogoria for descent, giving hikers the best full circuit experience.
Mount Kenya Chogoria Route: The Most Scenic Option
The Mount Kenya Chogoria route is considered the most beautiful and scenic of all Mount Kenya trekking routes. It starts from the eastern side of the mountain near Chogoria town.
Highlights of Chogoria Route
- Stunning landscapes and valleys
- Views of Lake Ellis and Lake Michaelson
- Waterfalls and dramatic gorges
- Best route for photography lovers
This route is slightly longer but rewards climbers with breathtaking natural beauty. It is often used as the descent route after summiting Point Lenana.
If you want the best experience, choose a trekking plan that includes both Sirimon and Chogoria.
Naro Moru Route: The Fastest but Steepest Route
The Naro Moru route is the shortest path to Point Lenana and is popular for hikers who want a quicker climb.
Pros
- Fast access to the summit
- Good for short itineraries
Cons
- Steep and challenging
- Less scenic compared to Chogoria
- Includes the muddy “Vertical Bog” section
It is ideal for experienced hikers but not the best for beginners.
Burguret and Timau Routes: Remote and Wild Adventures
For hikers looking for solitude and adventure, Burguret and Timau routes are more remote.
Burguret Route
- Wild and less traveled
- Dense forest and wildlife sightings
- Requires more days and strong guides
Timau Route
- Used mainly for descent
- Offers wide open views and peaceful trails
These routes are mostly included in private trekking expeditions.
Mount Kenya Routes Map and Planning Your Trek
Before choosing your trail, it is helpful to study a Mount Kenya climbing routes map. A good Mt Kenya routes map shows:
- Trailheads and park gates
- Campsites and huts
- Distance and altitude gain
- Summit approach paths
Tour companies providing Climbing Mt Kenya packages usually include route maps and itinerary support.
Mount Kenya Hike Price: What to Expect
Many travelers ask about the Mount Kenya hike price before booking.
The cost depends on:
- Number of trekking days (3–7 days)
- Route choice
- Group size or private climb
- Park fees and accommodation
- Guide and porter services
Average Mount Kenya Hike Price Range
- Budget group trek: $650 – $900
- Mid-range packages: $900 – $1,300
- Private luxury climb: $1,500+
Most packages include park fees, meals, guides, porters, and camping equipment.
Best Climbing Mt Kenya Packages
Professional tour operators offer different Climbing Mt Kenya packages, such as:
- 4 Days Sirimon Route Trek
- 5 Days Sirimon–Chogoria Traverse
- 6 Days Scenic Chogoria Trek
- Custom private climbs for families or groups
Choosing a package makes planning easier and ensures safety on the mountain.
Final Thoughts
Mount Kenya offers some of the best trekking experiences in Africa. Whether you choose the gradual Mt Kenya Sirimon Route, the stunning Mounts Kenya Chogoria route, or the fast Naro Moru trail, every climb is rewarding.
To enjoy the best adventure, use a detailed Mount kenya climbing routes map, compare trekking options, and book trusted Climbing Mt Kenya packages that fit your budget and fitness level.
Mount Kenya is waiting — are you ready to hike to the roof of Kenya?
