Mount Kenya Multi-Day Trek - 7 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Nairobi, Free Time

Welcome to the capital of Kenya! If you have a window seat on the flight, you'll likely see Nairobi National Park before touching down on the runway. One of the many aspects of what makes this city unique is the closeness of its 73-square-mile (117 km) park. This area is not a zoo, but rather a vast protected space where many of Africa's wild animal species roam happily and free. 

Upon landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you'll be picked up by a private driver and transferred to your hotel. Nairobi is the largest city in Kenya, with over six million residents, and it was founded in the late 19th century by colonial authorities in British East Africa as a rail depot on the Uganda Railway. The name originated from the Maasai phrase Enkare Nairobi (cold water), referring to the Nairobi River, which flows through the city. 

The rest of the day is free time to explore any way you'd like. You might want to rest after the journey or visit some of the city's produce and flea markets. Cap off the day by eating a meal at an authentic Kenyan café or restaurant.

Day 2: Safari in Nairobi National Park & Wildlife Conservation Tour

Today, you'll join an exciting excursion in the capital that gets you close to some of Kenya's best wildlife. It starts with an early pick-up to skip the traffic as you head to Nairobi National Park's main gate for entry. You must stay inside the car due to the unpredictability of wild animals. On a lucky day, you will spot lions, buffaloes, zebras, rhinoceros, giraffes, gazelles, ostriches, and many more. At some point during the visit, you'll have breakfast in a picnic area. 

By mid-morning, you will drive outside of the city and visit an Elephant Orphanage—a project that rescues and takes care of orphaned elephants from potential poachers when their mother dies. When they're old enough, the elephants return to the jungle. From here, you'll visit a Giraffe Center, which protects the highly endangered Rothschild's giraffe. Watch and feed these charming animals while learning more about the center's conservation successes. If there's time, make sure to check out the walking trail through the nearby Gogo River Bird Sanctuary. 

Your driver will then drop you off in an area of the city with great restaurants for lunch. Take the rest of the afternoon to enjoy the city any way you'd like.

Day 3: Transfer to Mount Kenya, Trek to Old Moses Camp (Day 1 of 5)

It's time to begin your multi-day trek! After an early breakfast, your driver will transfer you to the town of Naro Moru (107 miles/173 km), where you'll meet a local guide and sort out all the equipment required for your climb. Then, continue your drive to Mount Kenya National Park.

The scenery as you get closer to the park is breathtaking. Mount Kenya is not only a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well. Within its boundaries are landscapes including alpine vegetation and dense forests, lakes, glaciers, mineral springs, as well as rare and endangered species of animals.

You will take the Sirimon trekking route to Old Moses Mountain Camp for your overnight. After you pass through the park entry and pay your fees, you will begin the day's 5.6-mile (9 km) hike through forests of bamboo and rosewood—home to buffalo, elephants, antelope, and hundreds of species of birds. Old Moses is a well-run mountain lodge at 10,837 feet (3300 m) with clean bathrooms, dormitory bunks, a kitchen and dining area, and spacious grounds for setting up tents. 

Enjoy dinner and sunset views while meeting fellow trekkers from around the world.

Day 4: Trek to Shiptons Mountain Hut (Day 2 of 5)

Rise and shine! Today will be one of your longest and most interesting hiking days so you'll need to hit the trail early. You will be trekking about 8 miles (14 km) through moors and the Mackinder Valley before you reach the outpost at Shiptons Mountain Hut. Be on the lookout for unique wildlife like soaring eagles, hyrax, and sunbirds at this higher altitude.

Upon arrival, check in at Shiptons with time to relax and have dinner.

Day 5: Trek to Hausberg Col (Day 3 of 5)

Today, you'll have an easier acclimatizing roundtrip hike to the 15,000 feet (4,600 m) point known as the Hausberg Col. This route will cover a distance of around 4 miles (7 km). Once you arrive, you'll have time to rest and enjoy the nice scenery of Mount Kenya's west ridges before you return to Shiptons for another overnight stay.

Day 6: Trek to the Summit & Descend to Met Station (Day 4 of 5)

Today, you'll wake up shortly before dawn for the 3-hour hike to the summit of Mount Kenya! The trail is around 8 miles (14 km) and it will take you up steep slopes where you may have to climb over rocks on your way to Point Lenana. At 16,355 feet (4,985 m), this beautiful outlook is known as the hikers' summit.

After you take in the views and snap some panoramic photos, you will descend to Mackinder's Camp for a meal and another rest before you descend for another 3 hours to get to Met Station for your last night of the trek.

Day 7: Complete Trek (Day 5 of 5), Transfer to Nairobi & Depart Kenya

It's time to say goodbye to Kenya! But first, you will wake up early for an easy 2.5-hour descent. This 6-mile (10 km) path will take you through tropical foliage including rosewood and bamboo forests. When you reach the park gate, your driver will be there waiting to take you back to Nairobi (107 miles/173 km).

Upon arrival in the city, you can visit the local market for some souvenirs and have lunch before you're transferred to the airport for your departure flight. Safe travels!

More Great 7-Day Kenya Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your Kenya trip? Check out these other 7-day Kenya itineraries, with outdoor adventures, beach vacations, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.