6 Days Mount Kenya Trekking via Burguret – Chogoria Route

6 DAYS - 5 NIGHTS
  • 6 Days Mount Kenya Trekking via Burguret – Chogoria Route
  • The dramatic Gorges Valley on Mount Kenya’s Chogoria Route, viewed from above with steep cliffs and a grassy valley floor
  • 2-Day Mount Kenya Trek to Lake Ellis & Nithi Waterfall
  • Trekkers at the Point Lenana summit sign, the third-highest peak on Mount Kenya at 4,985 meter

6 Days Mount Kenya Trekking via Burguret – Chogoria Route to Point Lenana

Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Route: Burguret Ascent · Chogoria Descent
Highlight: Remote Burguret Route – Untouched Forest Trails, Exceptional Wildlife Encounters & Mount Kenya’s Most Scenic Descent
UNESCO Status: UNESCO World Heritage Site
Summit: Point Lenana (4,985m / 16,355ft)
Difficulty: Challenging
Signature Experience: Trek through Mount Kenya’s least-travelled route, rich in pristine forest, bamboo zones, and wildlife, before descending via the spectacular Chogoria Route
Recommended For: Experienced Hikers, Wildlife Enthusiasts, Adventure Seekers, Photographers & Trekkers Seeking Solitude
Accommodation: Camping Throughout
Trek Type: Private – Solo Travellers, Couples, Families & Small Groups
Summit Success Rate: Over 93%

About This 6-Day Mount Kenya Trekking via the Burguret–Chogoria Route to Point Lenana

Looking for a Mount Kenya trek that takes you away from the crowds and deep into the mountain’s untouched wilderness? Our 6-Day Burguret–Chogoria Route offers one of the most adventurous and rewarding trekking experiences on Mount Kenya, combining a remote ascent through pristine forest with a spectacular descent along the mountain’s most scenic trail.

Your journey begins on the Burguret Route, the least-travelled route on Mount Kenya. Winding through dense montane forest, towering bamboo, and giant heather, this hidden trail provides an authentic wilderness experience with excellent opportunities to encounter wildlife such as buffalo, bushbuck, colobus monkeys, elephants, and a rich variety of birdlife. With very few trekkers using this route, you’ll enjoy a true sense of solitude while discovering one of Mount Kenya’s best-kept secrets.

After reaching Point Lenana (4,985m / 16,355ft) at sunrise, your adventure continues down the breathtaking Chogoria Route, widely regarded as the mountain’s most scenic descent. Traverse the dramatic Gorges Valley, enjoy panoramic views of Lake Michaelson, visit the tranquil Lake Ellis, and finish your trek at the beautiful Nithi Waterfall. Combining a remote wilderness ascent with Mount Kenya’s most spectacular landscapes, this itinerary is the perfect choice for experienced hikers seeking adventure, solitude, exceptional wildlife encounters, and an unforgettable summit experience.

6-Day Mount Kenya Trekking via the Burguret–Chogoria Route to Point Lenana Highlights

Trek the Remote Burguret Route — Mount Kenya’s least-travelled trail, offering an authentic wilderness experience away from the crowds

Exceptional Wildlife Encounters — walk through pristine forest and bamboo zones with opportunities to spot buffalo, elephants, bushbuck, colobus monkeys, and a rich variety of birdlife

Explore Untouched Forests and Giant Heather — experience some of Mount Kenya’s most pristine and unspoilt ecosystems

Camp beneath Batian (5,199m) and Nelion (5,188m) at the iconic Shipton’s Camp (4,200m)

Summit Point Lenana (4,985m / 16,355ft) at sunrise, with spectacular views of Batian, Nelion, and, on clear mornings, Mount Kilimanjaro

Descend through the dramatic Gorges Valley, widely regarded as the mountain’s most scenic alpine landscape

Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Michaelson, a hidden glacial lake surrounded by towering cliffs

6 Days Mount Kenya Trekking via Burguret – Chogoria Route Itinerary

1

Nairobi – Giant Bamboo Camp (2,600m)

Drive Distance: ~200kmTrek Distance: 9kmAltitude Gain: +600mTrek Time: 4 hrsDepart Nairobi at 7:00 AM for Nanyuki, the gateway to Mount Kenya’s northern routes. After meeting your crew, drive to Gathiuru Forest Station and start trekking through dense bamboo forest, home to elephants, buffalo, and forest birds. Arrive at Giant Bamboo Camp for overnight.
2

Giant Bamboo Camp – Highland Castle (3,700m)

Trek Distance: 12kmAltitude Gain: +1,100mTrek Time: 5–6 hrsLeave the bamboo behind as you ascend through podocarpus and cedar forest, stopping for lunch in the rosewood zone. Continue into moorland with giant lobelias and groundsels before reaching Highland Castle, set near dramatic lava cliffs with sweeping views.
3

Highland Castle – Shipton’s Camp (4,200m)

Trek Distance: 10kmAltitude Gain: +500mTrek Time: 5–6 hrsHike towards the base of Mount Kenya’s highest peaks, passing turquoise tarns and alpine valleys. Spot eagles, buzzards, and other high-altitude wildlife before arriving at Shipton’s Camp for dinner and overnight.
4

Shipton’s Camp – Point Lenana (4,985m) – Hall Tarns (4,300m)

Trek Distance: 15km (8km ascent + 7km descent)Altitude Gain: +785mAltitude Loss: –685mTrek Time: 8–10 hrsBegin your summit push at 3:00 AM, reaching Point Lenana for a spectacular sunrise over the peaks and, on clear days, Mount Kilimanjaro. Descend to Hall Tarns, perched on a cliff overlooking the Gorges Valley, for breakfast and a relaxing afternoon.
5

Hall Tarns – Meru Mt. Kenya Bandas (3,000m)

Trek Distance: 12kmAltitude Loss: –1,300mTrek Time: 4–5 hrsTrek along a scenic ridge with panoramic views of the Gorges Valley’s waterfalls, tarns, and lava flows.

The moorland gradually transitions into lush forest, where elephants and buffalo are often seen near the Meru Bandas. Enjoy a comfortable overnight with hot showers and log fires.

6

Meru Mt. Kenya Bandas – Chogoria Gate – Nairobi

Trek Distance: 8kmAltitude Loss: –350mDrive Distance: ~220kmTrek Time: 2–3 hrs

After breakfast, begin your final 8 km descent through the lush bamboo forest and montane rainforest of the Chogoria Route. This gentle walk offers excellent birdwatching opportunities and, with a little luck, sightings of forest wildlife such as elephants, buffalo, and other animals that inhabit Mount Kenya’s lower slopes.

At the end of the trek, your 4×4 transfer vehicle will be waiting to meet you. From here, enjoy a scenic drive to Chogoria Town, where you will connect with your main transfer vehicle for the journey back to Nairobi.

Expected arrival in Nairobi is between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Meals: Breakfast

Mount Kenya Trekking Cost – What’s Included

Price for 6 Days Mount Kenya Trekking via Burguret – Chogoria Route

Number of People Cost per Person
1 Person $1,800
2 People $1,500
3+ People $1,300
✅ Included in the Price
  • Round-trip transport from Nairobi to Mount Kenya and back
  • Certified English-speaking trekking guide for the full duration of the trek
  • Experienced and certified mountain chef to prepare all meals
  • Porter services to carry your main luggage (up to 12kg per person)
  • All meals during the trek, freshly prepared on the mountain (we cater to all dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.)
  • Drinking water throughout the trek
  • Camping accommodation: spacious mountain tents and sleeping mats provided
  • Mount Kenya National Park entry fees
  • Mount Kenya camping fees
  • Private mess tent at every camp throughout the six days
  • Private toilet tent at every camp throughout the six days
  • Hot water bottles provided every night to keep you warm at altitude
  • Emergency medical evacuation cover — included as standard
  • Certificate of achievement upon reaching the summit
  • All government taxes and levies

Not Included in the Package

  • Trekking gear (Available for rent upon request)
  • Hotel accommodation before and after the trek (We’re happy to help arrange accommodation in Nairobi or Nanyuki if needed)
  • Tips for the mountain crew (guide, chef, porters)

What to Pack for Mount Kenya – Gear Checklist

We recommend bringing the following:

Bags65–75L rucksack (carried by porter — maximum 12 kg) · 35–45L daypack for daily use
Sleeping3–4 season sleeping bag rated −5°C or below · Optional liner
FootwearWaterproof trekking boots — broken in before the trek · Camp sandals · Several pairs of trekking socks
Warm LayersInsulated jacket · Trekking trousers · Thermal base layers · Warm hat · Neck gaiter · Warm gloves · Thin liner gloves
Weather ProtectionWaterproof jacket · Waterproof trousers · Gaiters · Rain poncho
EssentialsSunglasses · Head torch with spare batteries · Walking poles · Sunscreen SPF 50+ · Personal medications · Reusable water bottle (3 litres minimum) · Personal snacks

Best Time to Climb Mount Kenya

Mount Kenya is a year-round trekking destination, but the best times for clear skies and summit success are:

  • January to March – clear skies and good trail conditions
  • June to October – dry season and most stable weather

Avoid rainy months (April–May, November) for a safer trek.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is special about the Burguret Route?
A: It’s one of the least traveled and most natural routes, offering a raw wilderness experience through dense rainforest and bamboo zones—perfect for solitude and wildlife encounters.

Q: Is this trek suitable for beginners?
A: This route is best for fit and experienced trekkers due to its remote nature, uneven trails, and less-developed infrastructure.

Q: Why descend through Chogoria?
A: Chogoria is scenic and well-developed, offering a rewarding contrast to the wild Burguret ascent. You’ll enjoy features like Lake Ellis and the Gorges Valley.

Q: Do I need a guide?
A: Yes. Certified guides are mandatory, and Ahambi Tours provides experienced, safety-trained mountain guides.

Q: Can I rent trekking gear?
A: Yes. We provide affordable, high-quality rental gear in Nanyuki.

Why Book with Ahambi Tours

  • Award-Winning Operator – Rated 5 stars on TripAdvisor
  • Local Experts Since 2013 – Over 10 years guiding trekkers on Mount Kenya
  • Certified Mountain Guides – Experienced, KWS-licensed, English-speaking
  • Summit Success Rate Over 95% – Thanks to well-paced itineraries and altitude support
  • Emergency Support on Every Trek – Safety always comes first
  • Flexible Booking & Rescheduling Policy – Deposit valid for 12 months
  • Gear Rental Available – We offer quality, affordable gear in Nanyuki
  • Personalized Service – Small groups, private options, custom dietary plans

How to Book Your 6 Days Mount Kenya Trekking via Burguret – Chogoria Route with Ahambi Tours

Deposit: $100 per person
Balance: Payable 5 days before trek start
Cancellation: Deposits are valid for 12 months if you reschedule

Book Now: Website: www.ahambitours.co.ke Email: [email protected] WhatsApp: +254 725 727167

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