Glacial Lakes on Mount Kenya
Mount Kenya's volcanic origins and glacial history have carved dozens of lakes and tarns across its upper slopes. These turquoise and emerald pools sit in cirques and valleys between 3,500m and 4,600m, surrounded by giant groundsels and volcanic rock. The lakes are among the most beautiful features on the mountain and are a major reason why many trekkers consider Mt Kenya more scenic than Kilimanjaro. Several routes pass directly by or overlook these lakes.
Lake Michaelson & Gorges Valley (Chogoria Route)
Lake Michaelson is the crown jewel — a deep volcanic crater lake surrounded by 300m sheer cliffs in the Gorges Valley. The Chogoria Route passes directly above it, and the view from the valley rim is one of the most photographed spots on the mountain. The Gorges Valley itself is a dramatic glacially carved canyon stretching several kilometres. Lake Michaelson sits at approximately 3,950m and is best viewed from the trail between Mintos Hut and the Chogoria descent.
Lake Ellis (Chogoria Approach)
Lake Ellis sits at 3,480m on the Chogoria approach road, before you even reach the main trekking route. It's a serene highland lake surrounded by moorland and tussock grass — an excellent acclimatization stop on Day 1 of a Chogoria trek. Fishing (trout) is permitted with a KWS permit. The lake is accessible by 4WD and makes a great picnic spot even for non-trekkers. On clear days, the twin peaks of Batian and Nelion are visible from the lakeshore.
Hall Tarns, Simba Tarn & Other High-Altitude Pools
Hall Tarns (4,300m) sit near Mintos Hut on the Chogoria Route — a cluster of small pools reflecting the surrounding peaks. Simba Tarn (4,620m) lies near the base of Point Lenana and is one of the highest bodies of water on the mountain. The Hausburg and Oblong Tarns are found in the Hausberg Valley accessible from Shipton's Camp. These high-altitude pools are often partially frozen in the early morning and framed by otherworldly giant groundsel and lobelia plants.
Which Route Has the Best Lake Views?
The Chogoria Route wins for lake scenery by a wide margin — it passes Lake Ellis, overlooks Lake Michaelson and Gorges Valley, and connects to the Hall Tarns. The Sirimon–Chogoria Traverse combines the acclimatization benefits of Sirimon with a descent through Chogoria's lake district. If lakes and dramatic scenery are your priority, any route that includes the Chogoria descent is the right choice.
Written by James Mwangi
Lead Mountain Guide & Founder
James Mwangi is a KWS-licensed mountain guide with over 15 years of experience leading treks on Mount Kenya. Born and raised in Nanyuki at the foot of the mountain, he has summited Point Lenana over 300 times and guided climbers from 40+ countries. He holds Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification and is a certified Leave No Trace trainer.
Explore Our Routes
Sirimon Route
Beautiful – Open Moorlands & Alpine Meadows
View RouteChogoria Route
Spectacular – Gorges, Tarns & Volcanic Lakes
View RouteNaro Moru Route
Dramatic – Vertical Bog & Alpine Desert
View RouteHave More Questions?
Our team lives and breathes Mount Kenya. Ask us anything about routes, preparation, costs, or logistics.