Safari Overview
Africa’s Most Beautiful Mountain, Mt Kenya, Crossing in Four Days
There is a version of Mount Kenya that most trekkers never see. The western routes, Naro Moru and Sirimon, are well-worn for good reason, but the eastern approach via Chogoria is something else entirely. This 4-day Mount Kenya trek combines the Chogoria ascent with the Sirimon descent in a complete traverse of the mountain, and it is consistently rated among the most scenic trekking experiences in all of Africa. Not East Africa. All of Africa.
The difference is in the terrain. The Chogoria route climbs from the east through ancient bamboo forest and open highland moorland before entering the Gorges Valley — a deep, cliff-flanked corridor that funnels you directly towards the main peaks. Along the way, you camp on the shores of Lake Ellis, spend a night at Minto’s Camp within reach of the Temple, and stand at Point Lenana (4,985m) in time for sunrise before the world below has had its morning coffee. The descent drops you through Mackinder’s Valley and the open northwest moorland — a gentler, golden contrast to the drama of the ascent.
Kwezi Safaris runs this traverse with a fully supported team: experienced mountain guide, dedicated cook, and porters who handle the loads so you can focus entirely on the mountain. With over 20 years guiding guests through East Africa’s most demanding and rewarding landscapes, we know this terrain in every season and at every pace. Whether this trek stands alone or sits at the beginning of a broader Kenya or Tanzania safari, the Chogoria–Sirimon crossing is the kind of experience that resets your sense of what a mountain can be.
Tour Highlights
Cross Mount Kenya from east to northwest
ascending Chogoria, descending Sirimon — for maximum scenic variety across a single itinerary
Camp overnight on the secluded shores of Lake Ellis
one of the most peaceful and beautiful campsites on the mountain
Visit the Temple
a sheer 150-metre cliff at the head of the Gorges Valley that earns its name every time someone first peers over the edge
Summit Point Lenana
before dawn and watch the African sunrise from the rooftop of Kenya
Experience five distinct ecological zones
bamboo forest, giant heather moorland, open alpine meadow, the Gorges Valley, and high alpine terrain
Strong wildlife sightings on the lower Chogoria sections
elephants, buffaloes, and rare highland bird species regularly encountered
Tour Map
| Start Point | Lake Ellis
Kenya |
| Day | Destination & Accommodation |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Nairobi → Lake Ellis Campsite (3,450m)![]() |
| Day 2 | Lake Ellis → Minto's Camp (4,200m)![]() |
| Day 3 | Minto's Camp → Point Lenana (4,985m) → Old Moses Camp (3,300m)![]() |
| Day 4 | Old Moses Camp → Nairobi![]() |
| End Point | Nairobi
Kenya |
Kenya