Chogoria Route
A Guide to Climbing Mt. Kenya Via Chogoria Route
One of the popular routes up Mt. Kenya is the Chogoria Route, which provides an opportunity to experience the stunning scenery of the mountain's eastern side.
A Guide to Climbing Mt. Kenya Via Chogoria Route
Mt. Kenya is a popular destination for hikers and climbers seeking a challenging and rewarding experience. One of the popular routes up Mt. Kenya is the Chogoria Route, which provides an opportunity to experience the stunning scenery of the mountain's eastern side. The Chogoria Route is an alternative route to the more popular Sirimon and Naromoru routes, and has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its stunning scenery and longer duration. Climbing the Chogoria Route provides an opportunity to experience the stunning landscapes of the Gorges Valley, Lake Michaelson, and the Lewis Glacier, among other highlights.
The Chogoria Route is the longest of the routes up Mt. Kenya, measuring approximately 45 kilometers. The route begins at the Chogoria Gate on the mountain's eastern side, and takes climbers through dense bamboo and rainforest, past glacial valleys and stunning waterfalls, and finally onto the mountain's rugged and rocky terrain.
The Chogoria Route is rated as a technical climb, with several sections requiring climbers to scramble over rocks or climb steep ridges. However, the route is still accessible to experienced hikers who have a good level of fitness and acclimatization. The scenery and landscapes along the Chogoria Route are some of the most spectacular in the Mt. Kenya region. Climbers are treated to stunning views of the Gorges Valley, Lake Michaelson, and the stunning Lewis Glacier. The route also offers an opportunity to visit several landmarks along the way, including Lake Ellis and Mintos Hut, which is an ideal spot for acclimatization.
Compared to other routes up Mt. Kenya, the Chogoria Route is longer and more challenging, but also more scenic and rewarding. Climbers are able to experience a less crowded and more secluded climb, which makes for a more peaceful and enjoyable experience.
Pros and Cons of Chogoria Route
The Chogoria Route has several advantages for climbers seeking to climb Mt. Kenya. One of the main advantages is the opportunity to experience the stunning scenery of the mountain’s eastern side. Additionally, the longer duration of the climb allows for more time to acclimatize, which can be beneficial for climbers seeking to avoid altitude sickness.
The Chogoria Route also offers the chance to visit several stunning landmarks along the way, which makes for a more diverse and enjoyable climb. Lastly, because the route is less crowded than some of the other popular routes up Mt. Kenya, climbers are able to enjoy a more peaceful and secluded experience.
However, there are also some disadvantages to the Chogoria Route. The technical nature of some sections of the climb requires a higher level of experience and fitness. Additionally, the route is more time-consuming than other routes, which may not be suitable for climbers with limited time. Climbers should also be aware that the Chogoria Route is less developed than other routes, which means that facilities and services may be limited.
Itinerary for Climbing Mt. Kenya via Chogoria Route
Day 1: Nairobi to Mount Kenya Bandas
Pick up from Nairobi and drive to Chogoria Gate (3 hours)
Hike to Mount Kenya Bandas (2,900m)
Dinner and overnight stay at Mount Kenya Bandas
Day 2: Mount Kenya Bandas to Lake Ellis Campsite
After breakfast, hike to Lake Ellis Campsite (3,600m) for approximately 3 hours
Enjoy scenic views of the surrounding forests and valleys
Dinner and overnight stay at Lake Ellis Campsite
Day 3: Lake Ellis to Minto’s Camp
After breakfast, continue the hike to Minto’s Camp (4,200m) for approximately 4 hours
Enjoy stunning views of the Gorges Valley and the rocky landscape
Dinner and overnight stay at Minto’s Camp
Day 4: Minto’s to Austrian Hut (Top Hut)
After breakfast, hike to Austrian Hut (4,790m) for approximately 4 hours
Enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers
Dinner and overnight stay at Austrian Hut
Day 5: Austrian Camp to Point Lenana to Mackinder’s Camp
Wake up early and begin the climb to Point Lenana (4,985m) for approximately 5 hours
Enjoy the breathtaking views from the summit
Descend to Mackinder’s Camp (4,200m) for approximately 2 hours
Dinner and overnight stay at Mackinder’s Camp
Day 6: Mackinder’s Camp to Shipton’s Camp
After breakfast, hike to Shipton’s Camp (4,200m) for approximately 4 hours
Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys
Dinner and overnight stay at Shipton’s Camp
Day 7: Shipton’s Camp to Nairobi
After breakfast, begin the descent via Mackinder’s Valley to Old Moses Camp (3,300m) for approximately 5 hours
Enjoy the scenic views of the moorlands and the surrounding landscape
Meet the driver for a ride back to Nairobi (3 hours)
Note: The itinerary may be subject to change depending on weather conditions and other factors that may affect the climb. Climbers should always consult with their guide and follow safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable climb.