Our day trip is designed for the visitor who has limited time and who is not interested in reaching any of the summits. This safari is tailored to those who are interested in seeing the fascinating vegetation zones of an equatorial mountain and the associated rich animal and bird life.

Early Morning briefing and equipment sorting by the guides. This will be followed by departure to the park gate where we check-in the Mount Kenya national park. After a few minutes of photo taking, we will head to the Naro Moru Track (altitude 3,000m.Met.staion camp).

The guides will do a short talk and explain more about the vegetation around the camp. You will be provided with packed lunch then guides will set a leisurely pace for a relaxing trek up the mountain through different vegetations from bamboo forest, hagenia trees to heathers trees and beginning of moorland covered by tussock grass and flowered cabbage roberias, also great views of lowland and Aberdare ranges. Along the way you will enjoy the enriched forest of birdlife and flowers on the high altitudes.

After 3- 4 hrs of ascending you will be on top of Teleki valley where you will enjoy your packed lunch with a good view.

After lunche, we will continue our trek to the crest of the ridge at 4,000m, from which you will enjoy a splendid view of the main peaks as well as the Teleki Valley.

Descent down to Met. Station (2-3hrs) will follow, where we find our 4x4 vehicles waiting and be transferred back to the lodge for a hot shower and a well earned rest.

 

 

 

"Ol Donyo EL Satima" in Masai , means, The Mountain of the Satima Tribe.

The Satima Morans frequented this area for ceremonial purposes. "Ol Donyo El Satima" is the highest point in the Aberdares and is situated at the north most end of this folded and uplifted range.

Although there is no permanent snow or ice, former glaciations are responsible for the formation of the large U – shaped valleys. The Aberdares lie along the edge of the Rift Valley and on clear days, magnificent views of the Rift Valley are to be seen to the west and views of Mt. Kenya to the east.

Our safari starts from the Lodge at 08.00 hrs. The drive to the Aberdare passes through beautiful farmlands on the lower slopes and finally into the lush Aberdare National Park which is famous for its abundance of wildlife. At about 09.30 hrs, we arrive at (3,300m.) where our trek begins. The trek across this lovely afro-alpine moorland is like nothing else available in Kenya. The rolling open terrain is extremely attractive for walking and the possibility of seeing a number of animals including the very elusive leopard, against a background of fantastic vegetation makes this trek very enticing. We picnic on top of El Satima, after about three to four hour Trek.

 

We then drive back to the Lodge, arriving by 18.00/1900hrs.

Please note that the Aberdare range is in high rainfall area, subject to sudden storms. A rain parka, water bottle, light wool sweater and day pack for camera and other gear are essential.

 

 

Designed for those who have a minimum amount of time and who want to reach the third highest peak Pt. Lenana. This challenging, non technical ascent can be made by any healthy person.

Day 1

Morning spent sorting and organizing personal equipment for the trek. Followed by a drive to the Naro Moru track and the Met Station where we spend the night in the mountain log cabins, a good day for acclimatization for we will be sleeping at an altitude of 3,050m. A short hike is taken in the afternoon to gain and loose altitude.

Day 2

Hike up into the Teleki valley where there is a spectacular view of the main peaks. Walking time approximately 4-6 hours. Overnight at Mackinder's Camp (4,100m).

Day 3

A pre-dawn start is made to ensure a successful summit bid and in time for a clear view of the majestic summit scenery. After ascending Pt. Lenana we return to our base camp and then proceed down the mountain and back to the lodge.

 

4. Four Days Mt Kenya Climbing Foot Safari

Designed for those who have a minimum amount of time and who want to reach the third highest peak Pt. Lenana. This challenging, non technical ascent can be made by any healthy person.

Day 1

Morning spent sorting and organizing personal equipment for the trek with the help of your guide. Depart the lodge latest midday and be driven to Naro Moru park-gate where you start the trek.

The guides set a leisurely pace for a relaxing trek up on the mountain. The trek helps you to acclimatize and enjoy seeing fascinating vegetation zones of an equatorial mountain and the associated rich animal and bird life. Packed Lunch is provided en-route.

The trek takes 3 hrs to the Met station where we spend the night in the Mountain log cabins. A good day for acclimatization for we will be sleeping at an altitude of 3,050m. A short hike is taken in the afternoon to gain and loose altitude.

Day 2

After breakfast hike up past forest line to moorland zone covered by tussock glass and Heathers zone onto the Teleki valley to the crest of the ridge from which vantage point you have a splendid view of the main peaks.

Packed lunch is provided en-route. Walking time approximately 4 – 6 hours to the teleki lodge for overnight (4,200m)

Day 3

A pre-dawn start is made to ensure a successful summit bid and in time for clear view of the majestic scenery after sunrise. With the help of the guide, ascent to the third highest peak ( point lenana -4985 m, 4- 5 hr) then descend down to teleki lodge for breakfast and changing. A few minutes break then proceed down to met ( 5 hrs). Station for overnight (3050m).

Day 4

After breakfast descend down through the forest to Naro Moru Park gate for pick to the lodge.

 

5. Five Days Circumnavigation of Mt Kenya

This climb is for those mountaineers who have an adventurous spirit and want to ascend Pt. Lenana, (4,985m) in a leisurely fashion from a non-tourist route. The climber has a better chance of acclimatizing and getting fit for the attempt on Pt. Lenana.

Day 1

Morning spent sorting and organizing personal equipment for the trek. Followed by departure to the Naro Moru track and Met Station where we spend the night in the mountain log cabins. A good day for acclimatization, altitude of 3050 m. A light hike is taken in the afternoon to help acclimatization.

Day 2

Hike up to the Teleki valley to our Mackinders Camp where there is a spectacular view of the main peaks. Walking time approximately 4-6 hours. Overnight Mackinders Camp (4,150m)

Day 3

After an early breakfast, begin the circumnavigation of the main peaks by heading north. One traverse takes us below the south and west faces on our approach to Two Tarn Hut then across Western terminal and into Hausberg Valley and finally over Hausberg Col and into Mackinders Valley.

Walking time proximately 5 hours. The highest point reached this day is 4,500m. Our camp in Mackinder valley is at an altitude of 4,300m. Night will be spent in high altitude tents.

Day 4

Alpine ascent of the third highest peak Pt. Lenana up the north faces little used by tourists. The top should be reached after about four hours of stiff walking. Altitude of Pt.Lenana is 4985m.

We then descend into Teleki Valley and spend the night at our original camp completing a scenic traverse of the Mountain.

Day 5

Descend from the Mountain to Met Station and be transferred to the Lodge.

 

 

The Sirimon Track, is one of the finest approaches to the peak area. It offers some of the best views of the main peaks, with a gradual climb which can be done leisurely. We traverse the mountain by ascending the Sirimon Track.

Day 1

Morning spent sorting and organizing equipment for the mountain trek  followed by departure to the Sirimon gate. An easy 3 hrs walk through equatorial forest to Judmaier's Camp (3,300m) for overnight in the high altitude mountain tents.

Day 2

Ascend the Sirimon Track to Likii North Valley and camp overnight in this beautiful little valley below the subsidiary peaks of Teleki and Sendeyo, two ancient parasitic vents of the main peaks.overnight at liki north camp in tents (3990m)-Full board.

Day 3

Climb out of the North Valley and into the Mackinders Valley, one of the broadest valleys on the mountain, with many giant groundsels. Camp at the head of the Mackinder's Valley, just below the main peaks of Batian and Nelion (4,300m).- Full board.

Day 4

Alpine ascent to the highest peak, Pt. Lenana (4985m). En route up the north face little used by tourists. Four hours of stiff walking to the summit. Then descend to Teleki Valley on the opposite side of the main peaks, to Mackinder's Camp for a good night rest (4150m.) Full board.

Day 5

Descend to the Met Station (road head) on the Naro Moru Track and back to the Lodge.

 

7. Five Days Mt Kenya Climbing Chogoria Trek

This is by far the most spectacular and beautiful route on Mt. Kenya, in which you ascend from Chogoria Route and descend through Naro Moru Route.

This is only possible during dry weather.

Day 1

Depart Naro Moru River Lodge in the morning after preparing the equipment. You are driven through Nanyuki, Timau and Meru before arriving at Chogoria Town and then through the rain forest gate to the road-head, (3200m). Overnight at the gate cliffs in tents.

Day 2

Ascend the Sirimon Track to Likii North Valley and camp overnight in this beautiful little valley below the subsidiary peaks of Teleki and Sendeyo, two ancient parasitic vents of the main peaks. Overnight at liki north camp in tents. (3990m)

Day 3

Trek along gorges Valley descending to Lake Michaelson, then Lunch at Vivienne. Trek through the magnificent castle rock's to Mintos Hut and overnight – "whole day hiking"

Day 4

Hike up through Square Tarn to climax at Pt. Lenana, 4985m which is the third highest peak on Mt. Kenya. Descend via Austrian Hut then down to Mackinder's camp for overnight in our Teleki Lodge at 4150m, walking time 5-6 hours.

Day 5

Descend via Naro Moru Route vertical bog arriving at Met Station before 12.00 noon, where our vehicles will be waiting to bring you down to Naro Moru River Lodge.

 

8. Five day/Four Overnights in Sirimon out Chogoria or Vice Versa

Day 1.

Morning spent sorting and organizing equipment for the mountain trek followed by departure to the Sirimon gate. An easy 3 hrs walk through equatorial forest to Judmaier's Camp (3,300m) for overnight in the high altitude mountain tents.

Day 2.

Hike up to the Mackinder Valley one of the broadest valley with Spectacular views of the main peaks –Batian and Nelion. overnight at Shiptons camp just below the main peaks. walking time approximately 6-7 hours and overnight in high altitude tents.

Day 3.

Alpine ascent to the highest peak, Pt. Lenana (4985m). En route up the north face little used by tourists. Four hours of stiff walking to the summit. Then descend to mintos camp for breakfast and rest.

In the afternoon have walk down to Vivian Falls, Lake Michealson enjoying great views of the Gorges Valley. Back to the camp for dinner and overnight in tents.

Day 4.

After breakfast descend down to Mt Kenya Meru bandas for overnight. At the camp there is refreshing drinks on sale and lucking you can have a hot shower from their firewood heated water.

Day 5.

After breakfast you will be picked by a vehicle from Meru Bandas and drive through beautiful natural forest to Chogoria town, Meru town, Nanyuki then to Naro Moru River lodge for a hot shower and a well earned rest.

 

9. Six days Best of Mt. Kenya Climbing Adventure Safari

This trek offers some of the best views of the main peaks with a gradual ascent which can be done leisurely, we traverse the mountain by ascending the Sirimon track, join the best of Timau, then join the best of Chogoria and Descend the Naro Moru track.

Day 1

Morning spent sorting and organizing equipment for the mountain trek and be driven to the Sirimon gate. An easy 3 hrs walk through equatorial forest to Judmaier's Camp (3,300m) for overnight in the high altitude mountain tents.

Day 2

After breakfast trek up the moorland and break away from Sirimon track at altitude of 3,940m, contouring into the Sirimon Valley. This is a seldom visited area with a tremendous amount of wildlife. Overnight in Sirimon Valley, altitude 3,940m.

Day 3

An early start out of the Sirimon Valley and into the head of the Hinde Valley. We then cross the Nithi and Gorges Valleys.

This is undoubtedly one of the most scenic areas of the mountain with it's 1,000 – vertical cliffs, its virgin valleys and cascading water-fall, is one of the most spectacular trekked areas in Kenya. Night camped at Hall Tarns(4,300m).

Day 4

Descend to Lake Michaelson, in the depth of the Gorges Valley. See the incredible cave formation known as the Temple. Walk down the valley to Vivienne falls (named after the famous author of Speak to the Earth. Return to camp in the afternoon. Overnight at Hall Tarns (4,300m)

Day 5

Alpine ascent on the third highest peak Pt.Lenana (4,985m). En route up north face little used by tourists. 04 hours of walking to the summit. Descend to Teleki Valley and spend the night at our Mackinders Camp (4,150m).

Day 6

Descend the mountain via the Naro Moru route completing a fine circuit of Mt. Kenya, to the Naro Moru River Lodge for a well-earned rest.

 

 

Day 1

Depart from the Naro Moru River Lodge at 10.00am after sorting all the equipment; the journey goes through to Meru Town a rich coffee growing area before finally arriving at Chogoria, then up to the forest gate and for overnight camping. This is a distance of 200km. from the Lodge.

Day 2

After breakfast walk up to Bairuni clearing (2,370m) about 04 hours of trekking and overnight.

Day 3

Walk up to gate cliffs through Uramandi hut, near Mt. Kenya Forest Lodge (about 2,940 m.) and overnight. (walking time 05-06 hours)

Day 4

Trek up a bit steep areas through Mugi hills to get to Lake Ellis at 3,460m. and overnight. (walking time 05 hours).

Day 5

Hike along Hinde Valley to the Hall Tarns/Mintos Hut overnight 4,300m. (walking time 06 hours).

Day 6

The climax of the Expedition is to ascend Pt. Lenana 4,985m via Simba Col, Lake Harris, Kobe Peak and to Mackinders Camp for overnight in our Teleki Lodge 4,150 m. (02 hrs walk).

Day 7

After breakfast descend through Naro Moru route- vertical bog to Met. Station, where our transport to Naro Moru River Lodge will be waiting. (03 – 04 hours walk).

 

11. Seven Days Mt Kenya Climbing Safari Timau Trek

The Timau Track, the main access route on the north side on the mountain lies in a major rain shadow. However, because you are inside a low rainfall zone it generally makes up for a drier safari and a more pleasant trek.The views from the north give you the impression that you are trekking into a whole mountain range.

Day 1

After sorting equipment, you will be driven to Timau road head where you will begin your trek up Mt. Kenya from the north. (Overnight in high altitude mountains tents – Timau road head). 3,300m

Day 2

Hiking across the beautiful northern moorland of Mt. Kenya with its unique flora and possibly seeing some of the wildlife, which wander up these northern slopes. Camp near the Western Marania River.3, 700m.

Day 3

Continue your trek over rolling moorland country to camp at the headquarters of the Kathita East drainage.3, 950m.

Day 4

Hike up to the spectacular Hall Tarns where the beautiful rock formation known as the Temple stands guard over Lake Michaelson 1000 vertical feet below.4,090m.

Day 5

Penetrate the defenses of the Temple and descend to the Lake Michaelson and enjoy the scenic wonder of the magnificent area. Truly a trekker's paradise 4,300m.

Day 6

An early start to ensure a successful summit bid for main objective Pt. Lenana (4,985m- the 3rd highest peak). Descend to Mackinders Camp through the Naro Moru Track.

Day 7

After breakfast descend the mountain via the Naro Moru Route completing a fine circuit of Mt. Kenya, to the Naro Moru River Lodge for a well –earned rest.

 

12. Seven Days – The Land Contrasts

This Safari to Mt. Kenya gives the visitor the opportunity to experience all the contrasting scenery of Mt. Kenya.

This safari is a beautiful blend of all our itineraries, taking advantage of the best aspects of the three main approach routes to the peak area: Naro Moru, Sirimon and Chogoria.

Day 1

Morning spent sorting and organizing personal equipment for the mountain trek, followed by departure to the Sirimon Gate. Afternoon walk of 2hrs helps to acclimatize, hopefully you will be lucky to see some game on the way. Night spent at the gate (2,570m.)

Day 2

This day incorporates a picnic on the Mt. Kenya day hike. This is a very interesting and enjoyable day spent in the depths of the forest. Night will be spent at road head, at the Judmaier Camp (3,300m.)

Day 3

After breakfast we begin our trek up the moorland and break away from the Sirimon Track at an altitude of 3,940m, contouring into the Sirimon Valley. This is a seldom –visited area which harbours a tremendous amount of wildlife. Overnight in the Sirimon Valley, altitude 3,940m (camping)

Day 4

An early start out of the Sirimon Valley and into the head of the Hinde Valley. We then cross the Nithi and Gorges Valleys. This is undoubtedly one of the most scenic areas of the mountain. With it's, 1,000ft. vertical cliffs, its virgin valleys and cascading waterfalls, it certainly is one of the most spectacular trekking areas in Kenya. Night at Hall Tarns (4,300m)

Day 5

Descend to Lake Michaelson, in the depth of the Gorges Valley. We will also see the incredible cave formation known as the Temple and we walk down the valley to Vivenne Falls (named after the famous author of Speak to the Earth). Return to camp in the afternoon. Overnight night at Hall Tarns (4,300m)- camping.

Day 6

An early start to attempt the third highest peak- Pt.lenana(4985m), 3- 4 hrs stiff and slow ascent to be on top for the sunrise. We then descend to Teleki Valley via Austrian hut down to teleki lodge for overnight in bandas (4,150m.)

Day 7

Descend to Met. Station for a pickup by 4x4 vehicles to the Naro Moru River Lodge for a well-earned rest.

 

13. Rock Climbing on Mt. Kenya- Batian (Nelion/Batian peak/ Nelion peak)

 

Because of Mt. Kenya's unique position on the equator, climbing seasons and route conditions vary with the sun's position.

For example, a climber interested in doing one of the best ice routes, which are on the south side of the mountain, should climb when the sun is in the north, between the months of June and December.

However, during the same period the east and north sides are in the best condition for rock climbing. Conversely, when the sun is in the south, the south side offers the best rock routes and north the better ice climbing conditions.

Recommended routes:

December-March
Normal Route, Standard IV (rock: South West Ridge, Standard V (rock routes).

June-September
North Face, Standard IV (rock Route).

6 Days Mt Kenya ROCK CLIMBING – Batian peak (Northface , Standard route)

Day 1

Morning spent sorting out equipments with the help of the guide. Depart the lodge before midday and drive to through equator, Nanyuki town to Sirimon gate (1 hrs). A leisurely and easy walk through the rain forest to help acclimatization (3 hrs walk) is enjoyed. Overnight at Judmaier's Camp (3,300m) in the high altitude mountain tents.

Day 2

An early start out of the Sirimon valley and hike over Mackinder's valley ( one of the broadest valley ) where you have spectacular view of the main peaks.

The cook will preparw lunch at the lunch point. Proceed down mackinders valley to shiptons camp where we overnight just below the main peaks (4300m – walking time 6-7hrs)

Day 3

Pre dawn ascent to the third highest peak, Pt. Lenana (4985m), through the north faces to be on summit for the sunrise. Four hours of walking to the summit, then descend back to shiptons camp. Afternoon hike up to Kami camp for overnight just below Batian peak.

Note; ascending Pt. Lenana helps to acclimatize before attempting the main peaks.

Day 4

Early start to attempt Pt. Batian via north face, standard IV. The climb takes 10 hrs climb. And descend down to shiptons' camp.

Day 5

After breakfast traverse out from mackinders valley to teleki valley then down to met. station for overnight in mountain bandas ( 6 – 7 hrs walk).

Day 6

Descend from met. station, hike down through mountain forest to park gate for a transfer pickup to the Lodge.

 

 6 Days Mt Kenya ROCK CLIMBING, Batian Via Nelion peak.( Normal route, Standard IV)

 

Day 1

Morning spent sorting and organizing personal equipment for the trek. A drive to the park gate will follow after which we start a 3hrs walk through the equatorial rain forest rich of animal and birdlife.

Packed lunch enroute to the Met Station will be enjoyed. We will later spend the night in the mountain log cabins, a good way for acclimatization for we will be sleeping at an altitude of 3,050m.

A short hike is taken in the afternoon to gain and loose altitude.( 3 hrs)

Day 2

Early start hike up through hagenia zone to the forest line where we start the moorland zone covered by tussock glass and heathers zone. Hike over the Teleki valley where there is a spectacular view of the main peaks. Lunch en route.

Walking time 5-6 hours, Arrive at Teleki lodge late afternoon and overnight (4,100m)

Day 3

A pre dawn start is made to ensure a successful summit bid and in time for a clear view of majestic summit scenery after sunrise (ascending Pt. Lenana helps people to acclimatize before climbing Nelion and Batian), then descend down to the Austrian hut (4750m) just below the main peaks.

In the afternoon we will sort out our climbing equipment ready for an early start.

Day 4

Early start attempt Pt. Nelion (rock climbing) through normal route standard IV, will take 6 – 7 hrs to the top of Nelion(5177).

For those climbers not attempting Batian will turn around and descend. For the climbers attempting Batian peak, will overnight on top of nelion at Howell's hut.

Day 5

Climbers to traverse through Gates of mist to the highest point- Batian (5188m top of mt.kenya) then turn and descend via nelion down to Austrian hut. Proceed to Teleki lodge for overnight in bandas.

 

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Our trek is managed by a team of professionally trained leaders/guides who are responsible for all aspects of operation of the trek. We will make every effort to keep the treks as per the proposed itinerary, however as this is an adventure travel, the itinerary will be subject to external factors. Weather conditions and health conditions of members of the trekking team can be a factor compelling us to change the itinerary. The leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to the itinerary, but please be prepared to be flexible when and if it is necessary.

 

We always recommend you to have one/two additional nights in Nairobi before/after your trek which would ensure you have adequate time even if your trip delays. If everything runs smoothly as per the plan, you can use these days for additional activities like city tours, visit to the national parks, white water rafting etc according to your interest.

 

Day 6

After breakfast hike down through the moorland zone, heathers zone, mountain forest to the met. station for a pickup transfer to the lodge for a well earned rest.

Note; technical climbing in Mount Kenya needs a well trained rock climber. For any climber not confident enough we highly recommend you hire a rock climbing guide to lead the climb.

In case of accidents while climbing, we have rescue team managed by Kenya Wildlife Services.

Some of the equipments required:

Helmet, 02 Ropes :- 01 dry treated dynamic climbing rope.(10.5mm x 50m) and 01 sport rope (9mmx50m), Sitting harness, Repel Device, Locking carabineers:- D-shaped locking and non locking carabineers, Slings (several), Ascension ascenders( right and left), Daisy chain, 01 Rack:- tri-cam, hexes, nuts, quick draw oval.

 

HEALTH AND FITNESS REQUIREMENTS

Anyone contemplating one of our expeditions should take regular exercise. It is recommended that you start a training program at least one, if not two months before your safari. "Running, swimming, cycling and stair-climbing are all good ways of toning up muscles."

SEASONS FOR CLIMBING MT. KENYA

It has been generally accepted that our climbing seasons are from mid-December to mind- March and from mid June-to the end of September.

However, these traditional weather patterns seem to be the exception rather than the rule: the chances of encountering good weather on the mountain seem to be about equal throughout the year, so the timing of your safari is not as critical as once was.

GUIDES

Our professional local guides provide quality service on all our safaris.

FOOD

All meals for the treks is either fresh or tinned. The porters and guides are trained in cookery and service.

DISCLAIMER

Mountain climbing may be hazardous. Always take advice from your guide.

Recommended Equipment needed for the trek- Point Lenana.

1 RUCKSACK (6O LTRS)- To be carried by porter,1 DAYPACK- Personal items e.g. creams, camera,1 SLEEPING BAG( Winter Bag),4 WATER BOTTLE/CAMELPAK Ltrs per day,1 FLEECE JACKET/SWEATER WOOL,4 T-SHIRTS, 2 LONG SLEEVED SHIRT,2 SHORTSM,3 TROUSERS (Light),2 POLYPROPOLENE (Long underwear),4 WOOL SOCKS,4 COTTON SOCKS,1 CAP/HAT,1 SUN GLASSES,1 SNEAKERS,1 HIKING BOOTS (Water proof),1 BALACLAVA,1 GLOVES,HEAD LAMP/TORCH & SPARE BATTERIES,1 DOWN JACKET,1 RAIN JACKET & TROUSER,1 SANDALS/TENNIS SHOES- to change

Extra clothes, shoes, boxes or anything we do not need up on the mountain can be left at the lodge.

 

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