5 Days Up Sirimon Down Chogoria

The Sirimon Down Chogoria route on Mount Kenya is a popular and scenic traverse that begins on the northwest side of the mountain at the Sirimon Gate and concludes at the Chogoria Gate on the southeast side. Here’s an overview of what this route typically entails:

Ascent via Sirimon Route:

• Gradual Ascent: The Sirimon route is known for its relatively gentle and gradual ascent, which aids in acclimatization.¹ This makes it a good option for those who prefer a less strenuous climb.
• Varied Terrain: You’ll trek through diverse landscapes, starting with montane forests, bamboo zones, and giant heather, eventually leading to high-altitude moorlands.
• Scenic Views: The route offers picturesque views, including Mackinder’s Valley and the surrounding peaks.
• Well-Established Camps: There are established campsites along the Sirimon route, such as Old Moses Camp (Judmier Camp) and Shipton’s Camp, providing accommodation in huts or tents.
• Acclimatization Opportunities: The gradual gain in altitude allows for better acclimatization, which is crucial for a successful summit attempt and to prevent altitude sickness.

Descent via Chogoria Route:

• Stunning Scenery: The Chogoria route is often described as the most scenic route on Mount Kenya. It boasts features like the Gorges Valley, numerous tarns (small mountain lakes), waterfalls, and unique vegetation, including lush bamboo forests and highland forests.
• Lake Ellis and Lake Michaelson: This descent often passes by the beautiful Lake Ellis and the stunning Lake Michaelson, offering opportunities for breathtaking views and photography.
• Wildlife Viewing: The Chogoria side is considered to offer better chances of spotting wildlife and birdlife at various altitudes.
• Varied Terrain: The descent involves traversing through moorlands and then down into the wetter eastern side of the mountain with its distinct vegetation zones.
• Mintos Hut: A common stop on the Chogoria descent is Mintos Hut, located near Lake Michaelson.
• Longer and More Gradual Descent: Compared to some other descent routes, Chogoria can be longer and more gradual, which can be easier on the knees after a summit attempt.

Overall Experience:

• Traverse: This route provides a complete traverse of the mountain, offering different perspectives and ecosystems on the ascent and descent.
• Summit Attempt: Typically, a climb via the Sirimon route and down Chogoria includes an attempt to reach Point Lenana (4,985m), the third-highest peak on Mount Kenya accessible to trekkers. This often involves an early morning summit push from one of the higher camps.
• Duration: The Sirimon Down Chogoria trek usually takes between 4 to 6 days, depending on the itinerary and acclimatization schedule.
• Fitness Level: A good level of physical fitness is recommended due to the altitude and the distances covered each day.
• Logistics: The start at Sirimon Gate and the end at Chogoria Gate require logistical planning for transportation to and from the mountain. Often, a 4×4 vehicle is needed to reach the Chogoria Gate.

In summary, the Sirimon up and Chogoria down route offers a fantastic way to experience the diverse beauty of Mount Kenya, with a gentler ascent for acclimatization and a visually stunning descent through unique landscapes.