About This Route
The Sirimon Route is the most popular and well-maintained trail on Mount Kenya. Starting from Sirimon Gate at 2,600m on the mountain's drier northwestern slopes, this route offers excellent acclimatization with gradual altitude gain through enchanting montane forest, open moorland, and finally the stark alpine desert near the summit. The trail passes through some of the best giant groundsel (Dendrosenecio) forests on the mountain. Sirimon is favoured by guided groups for its reliable weather and well-placed camps at Old Moses (3,300m) and Shipton's Camp (4,200m). The summit push to Point Lenana starts around 3am for a sunrise arrival.
All routes are within Mt Kenya National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Sirimon Gate (2,600m) → Old Moses Camp (3,300m) — 3–4 hrs through bamboo & montane forest
Day 2: Old Moses → Shipton's Camp (4,200m) — 5–6 hrs across moorland & Mackinder Valley
Day 3: Acclimatization day — explore Shipton's Cave, Harris Tarn, or scramble to Kami Hut
Day 4: Summit night — Shipton's → Point Lenana (4,985m) → descent to Old Moses
Day 5: Old Moses → Sirimon Gate — exit
Route Highlights
- Gradual acclimatization profile
- Giant groundsel & lobelia forests
- Views of Batian and Nelion's north face
- Well-maintained campsites with shelter banda
- Drier weather conditions year-round
Trek the Sirimon Route
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