Mount Kenya Group Treks: Best Time, Routes & How to Join

Mount Kenya Group Treks: Best Time, Routes & How to Join . Looking for the best way to experience Mount Kenya trekking? A Mount Kenya group trek to Point Lenana (4,985m) is the perfect choice. You get the chance to climb Africa’s second-highest mountain, enjoy breathtaking scenery, and share the journey with fellow adventurers.

At Ahambi Tours, we specialize in 5-day Mount Kenya group treks using the most rewarding route combinations: Chogoria–Sirimon and Sirimon–Chogoria. With experienced guides, quality gear, and excellent reviews, we make sure your trek to Point Lenana is safe, scenic, and unforgettable.

Why Mount Kenya?

Mount Kenya (5,199 m) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful mountains in Africa. For trekkers, the highlight is Point Lenana (4,985m), the third-highest peak and the highest point reachable without technical climbing.

Climbing to Point Lenana offers:

• Sunrise views that stretch as far as Mount Kilimanjaro.
• A sense of achievement standing on Africa’s second-highest mountain.
• A challenge that is accessible to both first-time trekkers and experienced hikers.

 Quick Access to the Mountain

All our group treks to Point Lenana start and finish in Nairobi for maximum convenience:

• Hotel or residence pickups in Nairobi included.
• Pickups along the way in Nanyuki or Chogoria town are also possible.
• Drop-offs in Nairobi after the trek.
• Airport transfers (JKIA & Wilson) available on request.

This makes joining a Mount Kenya trek easy, whether you’re already in Kenya or arriving directly by flight.

Choosing the Right Route

We offer two route options that guarantee a summit at Point Lenana:

Option 1: 5 Days Chogoria Up – Sirimon Down (Most Popular)

• Scenic ascent with Lake Ellis, Lake Michaelson, Gorges Valley, and waterfalls.
• Summit at Point Lenana for sunrise before descending via Sirimon.

Option 2: 5 Days Sirimon Up – Chogoria Down

• Gradual ascent via Sirimon – perfect for beginners and acclimatization.
• Summit at Point Lenana, then descend through Chogoria’s stunning valleys and lakes.

Scenic Highlights

On the way to Point Lenana, you’ll pass through some of Mount Kenya’s most dramatic landscapes:

🌅 Point Lenana Sunrise (4,985m) – the highlight of every trek.

🏞️ Lake Ellis & Lake Michaelson – alpine lakes that make for amazing photography.

🌄 Gorges Valley – sweeping cliffs and panoramic views.

💧 Nithi Waterfall – a hidden gem along the Chogoria route.

🌌 Starry Moorland Nights – unforgettable stargazing above the clouds.

🌿 Unique Flora – giant lobelias and groundsels found only in high-altitude East Africa.

🐒 Wildlife – monkeys, antelopes, and birdlife in the forested lower zones.

When to Trek: Best Seasons for Mount Kenya group Trek

The best time to climb Mount Kenya to Point Lenana is during the dry months:

• January – March
• June – October
• December

These months offer clearer skies, better trail conditions, and the best summit views.

 Itinerary for the Mount Kenya Group Treks

Ahambi Tours offers two carefully designed 5-day group trek options to Point Lenana. Both combine the best of the Chogoria and Sirimon routes.

Option 1: 5 Days Chogoria Up – Sirimon Down (Most Popular)

• Day 1: Nairobi pickup → Drive to Chogoria Town → 4×4 transfer through forest → Trek to Chogoria Gate (2,960m).
• Day 2: Trek to Lake Ellis and onward to Chogoria Road Head (3,300m). Visit Nithi Waterfall.
• Day 3: Ascend to Mintos Hut (4,200m) with views of Gorges Valley and Lake Michaelson.
• Day 4: Early summit at Point Lenana (4,985m) → Descend via Mackinder’s Valley → Overnight at Old Moses Camp.
• Day 5: Final descent via Sirimon Gate (2,560m) → Drive back to Nairobi.

Option 2: 5 Days Sirimon Up – Chogoria Down

• Day 1: Pickup from Nairobi → Drive to Sirimon Gate (2,600m) → Trek to Old Moses Camp (3,300m) through rainforest.
• Day 2: Trek across moorland and afro-alpine landscapes to Shipton’s Camp (4,200m) beneath Batian and Nelion peaks.
• Day 3: Acclimatization hike to Hausburg Col (4,560m) for panoramic peak and valley views → Overnight at Shipton’s.
• Day 4: Early morning summit at Point Lenana (4,985m) → Descend the scenic Chogoria side past Lake Michaelson → Overnight at Meru Bandas (2,950m).
• Day 5: Trek through bamboo and rainforest to Chogoria Gate (2,560m) → Drive back to Nairobi in the evening.

Comparing Our Two Group Trek Options

Feature	Chogoria Up – Sirimon Down	Sirimon Up – Chogoria Down
Summit	Point Lenana (4,985m)	Point Lenana (4,985m)
Ascent Route	Scenic & adventurous	Gradual & beginner-friendly
Descent Route	Gentle forest and moorland	Scenic finale with lakes & valleys
Scenery	Maximum views during ascent	Scenic reward after summit
Accommodation	Camping + huts	Huts + Meru Bandas
Difficulty	Moderate	Easier ascent, higher success rate
Best For	Trekkers seeking adventure and scenery	Beginners and mixed groups

Why Choose Ahambi Tours?

🏆 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award winner – top-rated Mount Kenya trekking company.

⭐ Hundreds of positive reviews from happy trekkers.

✅ Guaranteed departures – join even as a solo traveler.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Small groups for a personal experience.

🛠️ Quality gear rental available.

🚐 All logistics included – transport, permits, meals, and accommodation.

With Ahambi Tours, your trek to Point Lenana is safe, well-organized, and unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mount Kenya Group Trekking

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about joining a Mount Kenya group trek to Point Lenana (4,985m):

What is a Mount Kenya group trek?

In a group trek, you’ll join a diverse team of adventurers from around the world, all aiming to summit Point Lenana together. Group treks have set departure dates, while private treks let you choose your own schedule.

When is the best time to climb Mount Kenya?

Our group departures run year-round. The best trekking seasons are the dry months: January to March and June to October, with December also offering favorable conditions.

How many people are in a group trek?

Typical groups consist of 6 to 12 trekkers, striking a balance between social interaction and efficient camp management.

Is Mount Kenya trekking suitable for beginners?

Yes. For beginners, we recommend the 5-day Sirimon–Chogoria or the 6-day Sirimon–Chogoria for a gentler ascent and better acclimatization.

What kind of accommodation is included?

All group climbs include camping accommodation. We provide high-quality tents, with two trekkers sharing each tent. The Sirimon route has the option of huts and can be organized on request.

Where should I stay before the trek?

Staying in Nairobi (1,700m) is excellent for acclimatization. If starting from Sirimon, you can also stay overnight in Nanyuki and join the group there.

What’s the difference between group and private treks?

The main difference is flexibility. Group treks have fixed dates, while private treks are tailored to your schedule. Both follow high safety and comfort standards with professional guides.

Can you cater to special diets?

Yes. We provide vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary options — just let us know in advance.

Do you provide a gear checklist?

Yes. A detailed Mount Kenya trekking gear checklist will be sent to you after booking.

Can I rent Mount Kenya trekking gear?

Yes. We rent out high-quality gear, including sleeping bags, rucksacks, and trekking poles.

What language do your guides speak?

Our experienced team communicates primarily in English, ensuring clear safety briefings, instructions, and easy interaction.

Mount Kenya Group Trek Prices

We keep our Mount Kenya group trekking packages affordable while maintaining high-quality service and safety.

5-Day Mount Kenya Group Trek (Chogoria–Sirimon or Sirimon–Chogoria)

• Non-Residents: USD 800
• Residents: USD 400

6-Day Mount Kenya Group Trek (Chogoria–Sirimon or Sirimon–Chogoria)

• Non-Residents: USD 900
• Residents: USD 480

💳 A deposit of USD 100 secures your spot. The balance is due 5 days before departure.

Ready to Trek to Point Lenana?

Joining a Mount Kenya group trek to Point Lenana with Ahambi Tours is the best way to experience Africa’s second-highest mountain. Whether you choose Chogoria–Sirimon or Sirimon–Chogoria, you’ll enjoy breathtaking scenery, professional guidance, and lifelong memories.

Book Your Mount Kenya Group Treks

Ready to join? Click here to access our Mount Kenya Group Page for all scheduled departures throughout the year and choose your preferred date.