Hike Details

4 Days Mt. Kenya Lakes Tour- Chogoria New Year

This is the year of experiencing mountain differently, we seek to reach the summits but we also commit to being aware of every moment on the way… we call it connection with self and nature, a beautiful journey up this snow-capped mountain of East Africa right at the Equator.

Mt. Kenya is one of the places every human should visit at least once in a lifetime. It offers a wholesome experience of fun, connection and self-discovery; so come with us and create your memories..and live to tell your mountain story!

Below is a brief description of the route…

Day 1: Chogoria Forest Gate (2650M ASL) – Chogoria Gate Camp (2950m ASL) – 3hrs, 6km walk, 300m ascent

Commence your adventure at 7:00 am outside the International Life House (or another agreed location in Nairobi). A scenic 3-hour drive takes you to Chogoria, where an early lunch awaits. Engage with our contact team at the mountain’s base before a transfer vehicle takes you 6km up to the forest clearance, where a relaxing 3-hour walk through the bamboo forest leads to the camp (2950m) by 4 pm. Set up camp at the gate, offering excellent views of the mountain. Weather permitting, take a walk around the Bandas, likely spotting buffalos, bushbucks, and various bird species. Enjoy beautiful views of Mugi and Ithanguni Hills. Dinner is served, and the gate’s clearance provides an ideal spot for stargazing.

Day 2: Chogoria Gate Camp (2950m Asl) – Lake Ellis Camp (3,450) via Nithi Falls – 5 hrs, 9km, 500m ascent

Begin the day with breakfast, venturing through Hargenia forest and tussock grass. Cross a stream, pass a fisheries station, and exit the forest into the moorland. Stop at Road End camp for a snack before descending to the magical Nithi falls. Enjoy moments at the base, explore caves, and a beautiful water cascade. Return to Road End camp, then deep into the moorland. After an hour and a half, the beautiful Lake Ellis comes into view. The Hindu Valley forms a stunning backdrop, and after lunch, try fishing or summit Mugi Hill for breathtaking views. Dinner and rest by the lake.

Day 3: Lake Ellis Camp (3450M Asl) to Mintos Camp (4200m Asl) – 6 hrs, 11km

Wake up early to catch the sunrise by the lake. After breakfast, follow the track through heather and golden moorland. Refill water bottles at a stream, ascend from the valley, bidding farewell to Lake Ellis. Lunch break at the intersection of the traditional Chogoria route with a glimpse of Lake Michaelson. After lunch, ascend to Mintos Camp, revealing views of the main peaks Lenana and Batian. Optional walks to Mintos Tarn and the Temple rock formation. Early dinner, rest, and prepare for an early morning summit.

Day 4: Mintos/Point Lenana/Old Moses – 11-12 hrs, 23km, 3000m descent

Break camp at 2 am for the main peaks, reaching Point Lenana at 6:00 am to witness a spectacular sunrise. Descend to Shipton Camp for breakfast and continue down to Old Moses through the magical Mackinders Valley. Enjoy breathtaking views of the peaks as you bid them farewell. Expect to arrive at Old Moses by 3:30 pm and embark on the return journey to Nairobi.

Clothing

Balaclava – bochori
Cap
Bandanas
3 Thermal tops
4 T-shirts
Fleece jacket
Rain coat
Wind jacket / Down jacket
Poncho
2 Trousers (quick dry and light)
Hard Shell Summit pants
3 Thermal bottoms
Rain trousers
Gloves (woollen and waterproof)
Shorts (optional)
Gaiters
Thin socks
Thick socks (synthetic or wool – 4 to 5 pairs)
Hiking boots (water proof, strong, light – a size big enough to allow multiple layers of socks)
Sandals or slippers (after the hike and for allowing your feet to relax)
Sleeping bag
Porter’s bag (having all your gear and carried for you by the porter)
Day pack (the climber’s bag having all requirements the climber needs)

Accessories

Sunglasses
Water bottle (2 litres preferably)
Hot Water Bottle – to keep warm at night
Head torch & extra batteries
Toiletries (include wet wipes, since bathing is difficult due to low temperatures)
Towel
Hiking pole / walking stick
Energy sweets and snacks
Camera

International House, Nairobi

Guarantee price/guarantee trek on confirmation
Transfer to and from the base of the mountain
Full board accommodation whilst on the trek.
Meal plan as detailed: B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner
Accommodations in camps/huts as per the itinerary
All park entrance fees to include government taxes
Services of a professional guide, porters and skilled cook
Treated water on the trek.
Start and finish Nairobi

You will be required to pay a non-refundable deposit of Kes.20,000 or USD 500 to cater for bookings for the climb via Mpesa Paybill no. 5211729 Account MT KENYA by 18th December 2024 and the balance by 28th December 2024 or bank transfer to details provided upon request. Cancellation Policy  If you cancel more than 2 weeks before your scheduled trip departure, a 50% of the fee will be charged.  If you cancel within 48 hours of your scheduled trip departure, no refund fees will be provided.  No shows are responsible for 100% of trip fees.