As you Travel the Most Scenic Route to Point Lenana, Feel at One with Nature
For all adventurous nature lovers, Mt. Kenya is an essential travel destination. The climb through the Chogoria route offers the best views when it comes to Mt. Kenya. As we explore the wonders of Mount Kenya, we embark once more on a voyage via the most picturesque roads in the mountain range. Reaching Point Lenana, the third-highest summit of Mount Kenya at 4,985 meters above sea level, is our ultimate objective—becoming the best version of ourselves.
The Chogoria Gate is the starting and finishing point of the 4-day journey along the Mt. Kenya Chogoria Route. We’re going to explore some of Mt. Kenya’s most stunning landscapes and features, like Lake Ellis, Mugi Hill, Nithi Fall and Caves, Lake Michaelson, Gorges Valley, Vivienne Falls, and the breathtaking views at Point Lenana.
Schedule: Ascent of Mount Kenya
DAY 1: Lake Ellis, Chogoria Gate, Nairobi
At 5:30 a.m., we leave Nairobi for Chogoria Gate. We will meet and greet with the Outdoorer Mt. Kenya team upon reaching the Mt. Kenya Chogoria Gate, have brunch, and then head out on the path.
Hike to Ellis Lake (3,455m ASL)
Stretch: 8 kilometers
Gain in elevation: 600m
We start our hike through the stunning Hargenia forest and pass a fisheries station after registering at the gate. We’ll veer to the right toward Lake Ellis as we get closer to the Roadhead camp. Amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Hinde Valley, get ready to be mesmerized by the shimmering blue-green reflections of the late afternoon sun on Lake Ellis. This is where we’ll set our camp along the lake. You are welcome to explore the lake and take as many photos as you like. Later, while you eat dinner and discuss your experiences thus far, take in a peaceful evening by the lake.
Traveling to Camp Mintos (4,200m ASL) on Day 2
Stretch: 9 km
Gain in elevation: -800m
Following breakfast, we started down a somewhat steep track that led us over Heather and Moorland to Camp Mintos. Along the route, don’t miss the amazing sights. We’re going to pack a picnic lunch to eat at a trailside picnic area. Following lunch, we hike through a difficult, rocky section of the trail. At this point, symptoms of altitude sickness may begin to manifest; therefore, for the remainder of the journey, we will travel at a very moderate pace. If you’re not afraid of heights, you can get a stunning view over the whole of of Lake Michaelson from the top of a cliff. We arrive at Camp Mintos, our ultimate target, really quickly. Here, you’ll allow your feet to breathe and offer them a much-needed respite. You are welcome to explore the stunning Mintos Tarn barefoot or with sandals on. We will have dinner later and head to bed early to prepare for our early morning summit push attempt to Point Lenana.
Day 3: Taking control of oneself
Distance 4.5 kilometers from Mintos to Point Lenana
12.5 miles from Point Lenana to Road Head Camp
Gain in elevation maximum: -785m
After having tea and biscuits at 1:00 a.m., we set out at 2:30 a.m. to climb to Point Lenana (4,985m ASL). If we get to the top in time, an early ascent ensures us breathtaking views of the dawn sunrise. As far as the eye can see, arrange yourself to take in Simba Tarn, Harris Tarn, Square Tarn, Hanging Tarn, and the vista beyond the divide. We will return to Camp Mintos for breakfast. We will depart later for our next stop, the Road Head camp, where we will spend the final night. Along the route, if the weather cooperates, we will be treated to breathtaking vistas of the Gorges Valley.
Day 4: Leave and Travel to Nairobi
Location: 7 kilometers
We prepare our hearts and minds to say goodbye to the mountain as we make our way 1 kilometer from the camp to the enchanting Nithi Fall after breakfast. After there, we’ll travel back to Chogoria Gate, where we’ll grab a packed lunch and get into our return transfer cars for Nairobi. After climbing our mountains to reach Point Lenana, we want to emerge with our spirits and hearts fuller.
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