6 Days Mount Kenya National Park Hike: An Unforgettable Adventure

Embarking on a 6-day hike in Mount Kenya National Park is an exhilarating journey that combines stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the challenge of ascending Africa’s second-highest peak. This itinerary offers a well-paced route, allowing for proper acclimatisation and the opportunity to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the park.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi and Transfer to Naro Moru

Upon arrival at Nairobi‘s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you will be met by your guide and transferred to Naro Moru, a small town on the western side of Mount Kenya. The drive takes approximately 3-4 hours. Spend the night at a lodge, where you will have a briefing on the upcoming trek and time to prepare your gear.

Day 2: Naro Moru to Met Station (3,050m)

• Altitude: 2,400m to 3,050m
• Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
• Distance: 10 km
• Environment: Montane forest

After breakfast, you will drive to the Naro Moru Park Gate (2,400m), where the hike begins. The trail ascends through montane forest, offering chances to spot wildlife such as colobus monkeys and a variety of bird species. The path gradually climbs to Met Station, where you will spend the night in mountain huts.

Day 3: Met Station to Mackinder’s Camp (4,200m)

• Altitude: 3,050m to 4,200m
• Trekking Time: 6-7 hours
• Distance: 12 km
• Environment: Moorland

Today’s trek takes you through the famous “Vertical Bog,” a challenging but rewarding section of the trail. As you ascend, the vegetation changes from forest to moorland, with stunning views of the Teleki Valley and the peaks of Mount Kenya. You will reach Mackinder’s Camp in the afternoon, where you will rest and acclimatise.

Day 4: Acclimatisation Day at Mackinder’s Camp

• Altitude: 4,200m
• Environment: Moorland

This day is dedicated to acclimatisation to help your body adjust to the high altitude. You can take a short hike up to the Austrian Hut (4,790m) or explore the surrounding area, enjoying the spectacular views and unique alpine flora. Return to Mackinder’s Camp for the night.

Day 5: Mackinder’s Camp to Point Lenana (4,985m) to Old Moses Camp (3,300m)

• Altitude: 4,200m to 4,985m to 3,300m
• Trekking Time: 10-12 hours
• Distance: 18 km
• Environment: Alpine desert and moorland

You will start the ascent to Point Lenana before dawn to reach the summit at sunrise. The final push is steep and can be challenging, but the reward is an unforgettable sunrise view over the Kenyan highlands. After celebrating your achievement, you will descend via the Sirimon Route, passing through beautiful landscapes to reach Old Moses Camp.

Day 6: Old Moses Camp to Sirimon Gate (2,650m) and Return to Nairobi

• Altitude: 3,300m to 2,650m
• Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
• Distance: 9 km
• Environment: Moorland and montane forest

The final day of trekking descends through moorland and montane forest to Sirimon Gate. Along the way, you may spot more wildlife and enjoy the serene beauty of the forest. Upon reaching Sirimon Gate, you will be transferred back to Nairobi, where you can reflect on your incredible journey and celebrate your accomplishment.

The 6-day Mount Kenya hike is a challenging yet immensely rewarding adventure that takes you through diverse landscapes and to the heights of Africa’s second-highest peak. With careful planning, proper acclimatisation, and the guidance of experienced trekkers, you will experience the breathtaking beauty and unique ecosystems of Mount Kenya National Park, creating memories that will last a lifetime.