| Classic Shipton's route to the true summit of this granite mountain
(5199m).
This mountain, although in the shadow of its higher cousin to the south
is regarded by most mountaineers as being nothing less than a gem. It
stands like a sentinel in the midst of the vast Kenyan savanah and has
the same allure of other legendary peaks such as the Matterhorn.
Mount Kenya is as the phrase goes, "a mountaineer's mountain."
There are no easy ways up this African giant. It offers high altitude rock
climbing without equal. The routes are long up to 20 pitches and vary
from moderate (Alpine grade 4) to extreme (Alpine grade 6+). During
early December - March the Shipton route is at its best, which leads to
the Nelion summit of this twin peaked mountain.
Climbers should be experienced rock climbers with ability to climb up to VS (F5+). High altitude experience not
required but recommended. Due to the technical nature of this Itinerary there will only be a 1 to 1 guide client ratio.
The trek will be porter supported.
We trek in via the spectacular Chogoria route which features huge ecological diversity and the opportunity for wildlife
sightings such as Buffalo, Elephant Zebra and antelope.
December through mid-March typically has the best weather for the Shipton route, but be prepared for a wide range
of temperatures, from freezing nights and snowy, windy conditions, to bright sunshine intensified by high altitude.
Day 1: depart the UK.
Day 2: Nairobi.
Chance to explore the city centre and to get ready for the climb ahead. Thorough brief over dinner.
Day 3:
We will drive for about five hours to the Mountain Lodge at 3000m on the Chogoria Route. This lodge is just above
the forest and affords great views toward the many peaks surrounding Mt. Kenya.
Day 4:
Today we hike for 4-6 hours to our camp at Lake Ellis with an awe-inspiring view of Mt. Kenya in the distance.
Day 5:
Mintos hut. We move camp, which will involve a 5-hour hike to Halls Tarn. The rest of the day can be spent resting
at the tarn, exploring the area, or climbing to the top of one of the many high ridges in the area. All the high points
around Hanging Tarn offer fantastic views of the entire area.
Day 6: Austrian hut.
Today we begin our trek ascending up along the foot of huge rock walls. From the top we will have an excellent view
of Mt. Kenya. After ascending for a couple of hours we reach Tooth Col. From here we traverse until we reach the
Austrian Hut.
If time permits and we are feeling strong we can ascend the nearby trekker’s peak of Point Lenana
(4956m. 2 1/2 hrs return to Austria hut.) Stunning photos can be made from this lofty perch of the main Mount Kenya
summits and a distant Point John..
Day 7: Point John ascent (4850m)
Today we have an acclimatisation climb up the striking tower of Point John - five pitches (up to Severe (F 5). In the
evening we prepare for the ascent of Mount Kenya.
Day 8 and 9: Summit day.
Nelion via the famous Shipton route. An early morning departure. We easily cross the Lewis Glacier and climb the
Shipton's route, a technical rock climb with the majority of the climbing at the severe grade and a few short sections
of Hard severe (F5+). After taking our summit photos we abseil back down to camp for the night.
Day 10:
Descent to the gate head via the Naro Moru route.
Day 11: Fly to UK
Nairobi and flight home
Day 12: Arrive in UK |
