6 Days Mt Kenya Climbing: Sirimon – Naro Moru With Peak Circuit Route

6 Days Mt Kenya Climbing: Sirimon – Naro Moru With Peak Circuit Route

Sirimon Route
starts 15 km (9 miles) east around the Mount Kenya Ring Road from Nanyuki. The gate is 10 km (6 miles) further along the track, which can be walked or driven by two-wheel drives.

The track climbs up through the forest. On the north side of the mountain there is no bamboo zone, so the forest gradually turns into moorland covered with giant heather. The track ends at Old Moses Hut and becomes a path. This continues up the hill before splitting into two routes. To the left, the least used path goes around the side of the Barrow, to Liki North Hut. The vegetation becomes more sparse, with giant lobelia and groundsels dotted around. The path climbs over a ridge, before rejoining the main path ascending the Mackinder Valley. Shipton’s Cave can be found in the rock wall to the left of the steep path just before reaching Shipton’s Camp.

From Shipton’s Camp, it is possible to ascend the ridge directly in front of the camp to the site of Kami Hut, which no longer exists, or follow the river up to Lower Simba Tarn and eventually to Simba Col. These are both on the Peak Circuit Path

6 Days Mt Kenya Climbing: Sirimon – Naro Moru With Peak Circuit Route

Naro Moru Route
Taken by many of the trekkers who try to reach Point Lenana. It can be ascended in only 3 days and has bunkhouses at each camp so a tent is not necessary. The terrain is usually good, although one section is called the Vertical Bog.

The track starts in Naro Moru town and heads past the Park Headquarters up the ridge between the Northern and Southern Naro Moru Rivers. At the roadhead is the Meteorological Station, to which it is possible to drive in the dry season. The route drops down into the Northern Naro Moru Valley to Mackinder’s Camp on the Peak Circuit Path

6 Days Mt Kenya Climbing: Sirimon – Naro Moru With Peak Circuit Route

Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya and the second-highest in Africa, after Mount Kilimanjaro. It is an ancient extinct stratovolcano located in central Kenya, near the equator. Here are some key features and information about Mount Kenya:

1. Elevation: Mount Kenya’s highest peak, Batian, reaches an elevation of 5,199 meters (17,057 feet) above sea level. The second-highest peak, Nelion, stands at 5,188 meters (17,021 feet). The third-highest peak, Lenana, is at a slightly lower elevation of 4,985 meters (16,355 feet).
2. Geology: Mount Kenya is a stratovolcano that has been extinct for millions of years. The mountain is made up of three main peaks: Batian, Nelion, and Lenana. The peaks are eroded remnants of the volcano’s central plug.
3. Climate and Ecosystems: The mountain features diverse ecosystems and climate zones due to its varying altitudes. At lower elevations, you’ll find dense forests, including bamboo and tropical rainforests. As you ascend, the landscape transitions into heathlands, moorlands, and alpine zones, ultimately leading to glaciers and snow-covered areas near the summits.
4. Wildlife: The mountain and its surrounding area are home to a variety of wildlife species, including elephants, buffalo, colobus monkeys, various antelope species, and numerous bird species. The unique montane and alpine habitats support a rich biodiversity.
5. Cultural Significance: Mount Kenya holds cultural importance for the local Kikuyu people, who view the mountain as a sacred site and a place of spiritual significance. It features in many local myths and legends.
6. Recreational Activities: Mount Kenya is a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and adventure enthusiasts. There are several routes to the summit, each varying in difficulty and offering different experiences. The most common routes include the Chogoria, Sirimon, and Naro Moru routes.
7. Conservation: The mountain and its surrounding forests were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 due to their natural and cultural significance. The area is protected by various conservation efforts to preserve its unique ecosystems and ensure sustainable tourism.
8. Challenges: Despite its protected status, Mount Kenya faces challenges such as deforestation, habitat degradation, and climate change, which impact its ecosystems and wildlife.

Overall, Mount Kenya is not only a remarkable natural landmark but also a place of cultural importance and a destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore its diverse landscapes and ecosystems.

6 Days Mt Kenya Climbing: Sirimon – Naro Moru With Peak Circuit Route