The Sirimon Route Mount Kenya is the most recommended trekking path to Point Lenana (4,985 m),
starting at Sirimon Gate (2,650 m) on the mountain’s northwestern flank. This 4-to-5-day route
gains altitude steadily through open moorland and glacial valleys. It is the top choice for
acclimatisation and one of the few trekking routes in Africa with a realistic chance of
encountering elephant and buffalo on the approach.
ROUTE OVERVIEW
The Sirimon Route begins at Sirimon Gate (2,650 m), approximately 30 minutes north of Nanyuki.
The first day covers 9 km through open cedar and podocarpus forest, crossing the Sirimon River
before reaching Old Moses Camp (3,300 m) in 3–4 hours.
Day two follows a 14 km trail through heather moorland, crossing the Liki North River and
ascending into Mackinder’s Valley. Giant lobelias and groundsels line the path as the terrain
transitions from heath to true Afroalpine. Shipton’s Camp (4,200 m) marks the end of this day —
set directly below the jagged main peaks.
Summit night begins between 2–3 AM from Shipton’s Camp. The 2.3 km push to Point Lenana
(4,985 m) gains 785 m on rocky, occasionally icy terrain. Summit at sunrise gives clear views
of the Lewis Glacier, Batian, Nelion, and — on exceptional mornings — Kilimanjaro on the horizon.
Descent follows the Naro Moru or Sirimon trail back to Old Moses Camp (3,300 m) and out to
Sirimon Gate. Most trekkers complete the full circuit in 4–5 days. A 3-day version is possible
but only recommended for those with recent high-altitude experience above 4,000 m.
ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS
- Gradual altitude gain from 2,650 m to 4,985 m — the best natural acclimatisation profile on the mountain
- Regular wildlife sightings of elephant, buffalo, and eland on the lower forest and moorland sections
- Traverse the full length of Mackinder's Valley, one of Mount Kenya's most dramatic glacial corridors
- Overnight at Shipton's Camp (4,200 m) directly beneath the vertical rock faces of Batian and Nelion
- Sunrise summit push from Shipton's Camp to Point Lenana — Kilimanjaro visible on clear mornings
- Total distance of approximately 42 km — the longest gradual ascent profile of the three main routes
- Option to descend via the Chogoria Route for a classic cross-mountain traverse
