5 Days Mount Kenya Trek – Naro Moru to Chogoria

5 Days Mount Kenya Trek – Naro Moru Up, Chogoria Down (Best Classic Route Combo)

Ultimate climbing itinerary, expert guides, and guaranteed summit success with Safe Ride Safaris

Overview

This 5-day Mount Kenya trekking itinerary combines the fastest ascent route (Naro Moru) and the most scenic descent (Chogoria)—perfect for hikers seeking a short, highly rewarding climb. Expect diverse landscapes (rainforest, moorland, alpine desert), stunning views of Point Lenana, and a dramatic descent past Gorges Valley and the Temple Rocks.

This route is ideal for both experienced trekkers and fit beginners looking for a well-paced climb supported by professional mountain guides and porters.

📅 Detailed 5-Day Mount Kenya Itinerary

Day 1: Nairobi ➝ Naro Moru Gate ➝ Met Station (3,050m)

Depart Nairobi at 6:30am and drive across the lush central highlands, arriving in Naro Moru around mid-morning. After an early lunch, continue to the Mount Kenya National Park gate.
Begin your hike through a tranquil rainforest filled with colobus monkeys, bamboo thickets, and giant trees.
Arrive at Met Station for dinner and overnight.

Hiking distance: ~9 km
Habitat: Rainforest
Accommodation: Met Station Camp

Day 2: Met Station ➝ Mackinders Camp (4,300m)

After breakfast, ascend steadily through the forest into the vertical bog zone, then onto the open moorland dominated by tussock grass and giant lobelias.
Reach Mackinders Camp, located beneath the towering peaks of Batian and Nelion.

Hiking time: 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Mackinders Camp

Day 3: Acclimatization Hike – Two Tarn & American Camp ➝ Return to Mackinders

A crucial day for acclimatization. After a relaxed morning, walk uphill toward Two Tarn with panoramic views of the peaks. Continue to American Camp before descending back to Mackinders.

Purpose: Improved acclimatization for summit success
Accommodation: Mackinders Camp

Day 4: Summit Day – Point Lenana (4,985m) ➝ Mintos ➝ Meru Mt. Kenya Bandas

Wake at 2:00am for your summit push. Trek via Austrian Hut and follow a steep trail up to Point Lenana—arriving at sunrise with spectacular views. On clear days you may even spot Mount Kilimanjaro on the horizon.

After photos, descend to Mintos Hut for breakfast, then continue along the scenic Chogoria route to Meru Bandas for a well-deserved rest.

Highlights: Sunrise at Lenana, Gorges Valley views
Accommodation: Meru Mount Kenya Bandas

Day 5: Meru Bandas ➝ Chogoria Gate ➝ Nairobi

Enjoy a final descent through the bamboo zone and the lower forest, where a 4x4 vehicle waits near the Chogoria Gate. Continue to Chogoria town, then onward back to Nairobi, arriving late afternoon.

Total descent: ~15 km
Safari end: Nairobi

✔️ What’s Included

• Round-trip transport Nairobi ➝ Naro Moru ➝ Chogoria ➝ Nairobi

• All park entrance fees (Mt. Kenya National Park)

• Professional English-speaking guides & porters

• Full board meals while trekking (3 meals/day)

• 5 nights trekking accommodation (camps & bandas)

• Two-man tents

• Emergency evacuation within the park

❌ What’s Not Included

• Personal climbing gear: sleeping bag, gloves, sunglasses, warm jackets, rain suit, boots, scarf, rain trousers

• Hotel nights in Nairobi (before/after climb)

• Tips

• Personal insurance

🟩 Most equipment is available for hire on request.

💰 Pricing (Per Person, 2026 Season)

Upgrade options: private rooms, lodge upgrades, private porter, private cook.

👉 Contact Us for the Best Price & Availability

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the best route for Mount Kenya?

Yes. Naro Moru is the quickest ascent, and Chogoria is the most scenic descent—making this combination the most popular.

How challenging is the trek?

Moderately challenging. Suitable for any fit hiker with basic trekking experience.

What is the best time to climb Mount Kenya?

January–March and July–October for clear skies and safer trails.

Do I need technical climbing skills?

No. Point Lenana is a trekking peak. No ropes or technical gear required.

Can I hire gear?

Yes—jackets, sleeping bags, and other essentials are available for hire.