5 Days Up & Down Sirimon Route
A more gradual trek to the summit, traversing areas of rich forest cover before emerging into the sprawling moorlands. This hike is usually rated as the easiest among the short trips and is quite popular with persons attempting to reach an altitude exceeding 4000m for the first time. It is a good choice for large trekking groups as it follows the same trail up and down, making it convenient for those who are unable to reach the summit to stay behind at lower camps to wait for the rest of the group to complete the trip then descend together. Unless preferred, camping is not necessary as accommodation is available in a lodge and mountain huts throughout the trip.
Day 1:
Morning
transfer from Nairobi, arriving at Mountain Rock Lodge for lunch. In the
afternoon is a nature walk (3-4 hours) through the forest to the MauMau caves,
the former hideouts for Kenya's pre-independence guerrilla fighters who fought
against the British colonial masters. The escort naturalist guide for the trek
talks about their history and the flora and fauna of the forest. Dinner and
overnight at Mountain Rock Lodge.
Day 2:
Depart at 1000hrs to be transferred to Sirimon Park gate. From here, hike through montane forest, bamboo and rosewood up to the OldMoses Hut, gaining an elevation range of 700m in 3-4 hours. Dinner and Overnight at OldMoses Hut (3300m)
Day 3:
Leaving early, we traverse the expansive moorlands carpeted with tussock grasses and dotted with the unique Giant lobelia and Senecio plants, crossing streams and valleys. Today' trek is largely through the Mackinder Valley, with good views of the main peaks and a brief stopover for picnic lunch. Total walking time is approx. 7 hours gaining 900m in altitude. Dinner and Overnight at Shipton's Hut (4200m)
Day 4:
Pre-dawn attempt of the summit starts at 0300hrs, taking 3-4 hours to reach Pt. Lenana 4985m (the hikers summit) in time to watch the sunrise. On a clear day you can see the snow capped summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro miles away to the south. Descend back to Shipton's camp for breakfast. The rest of the day at leisure. Overnight Shiptons Camp
Day 5:
Descend to Sirimon gate, pick up and transfer back to Nairobi.
