Mount Kenya Trek and Safari
Trek in Dr. Seuss-like Landscapes & Walk up Point Lenana
Set against a magical backdrop along with a non-technical ascent, it’s hard to imagine a more intriguing trek. The hike out the Gorges Valley on the Chogoria route is spectacular — from high mountain environment, all the way down to the sub-tropical zone where elephants, Cape buffalo, and much more roam. Participants complete this Africa adventure with a safari to the Sweetwater Reserve, which includes a Jane Goodall sanctuary for chimpanzees, and the Samburu National Reserve.
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Trip Perks
While going on safari in a designated area in the comforts of a vehicle, there’s nothing quite like encountering Africa wildlife while on a trek, with nothing between you and the animals. You’ll see a wide range of things, from the odd hyrax, a small, furry marmot-like creature that happens to be the closest living relative of the elephant, to seeing Cape Buffalo dung, which by itself is harmless; but if the perpetrator is nearby consider that this beast is the second most dangerous animal in Africa behind the unassuming, perceived docility of the hippopotamus. Throw some alpine environments landscapes and a walk up Point Lenana and it’s really all the perks you need, but there’s one more worth mentioning, if you’re a birdwatchers you won’t be disappointed!
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Description
This porter supported trek circumnavigates this amazing peak, in one of the world’s most unique mountain ecosystems. With biological abundance that surpasses Kilimanjaro, you’ll see firsthand why this is one of Africa’s great natural treasures. Bizarre plants, such as the giant groundsel, senesias, and lobelia, are unique to the area and the Mount Kenya National Park is home to such wild and wooly creatures such as the Cape buffalo, elephants, a variety of monkeys, species rich birdlife, and more.
For many though, the highlight of the trip will be watching the sunrise from the summit of Point Lenana, an easy scramble to one of Mount Kenya’s three summits. Mount Kenya is, as the phrase goes, “a mountaineer’s mountain.” There are no easy ways up this extinct volcano’s two main peaks, Nelion and Batian. But, Point Lenana offers an obtainable summit for non-climbers.
The Ewaso Nyiro River flows through the Samburu Reserve which supports a wide variety of animals; including cheetah, elephant, giraffe, lion, leopard, a variety of antelope, zebra, crocodile, and much more. From our tented camp we strike out in vehicles for evening and morning game viewing. We start things off in the Sweetwater Reserve, home to one of Jane Goodall’s chimpanzee rehabilitation sites. This is a great safari overall without a huge expense.
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Price
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Mount Kenya Trek and Safari
$3,850 – 12 Days / Includes travel time
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Price Includes
- International airfare
- Kenya entry visa and airport fees
- Immunizations
- Personal equipment and clothing
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, etc.)
- Travel insurance with trip cancellation, medical and evacuation policy
- All expenses associated with non-scheduled departure
- Alcoholic and bottled beverages
- Guide/Staff gratuities
- Airport transfers for independent arrival or departure
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Price Does Not Include
- International airfare
- Kenya entry visa and airport fees
- Immunizations
- Personal equipment and clothing
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, etc.)
- Travel insurance with trip cancellation, medical and evacuation policy
- All expenses associated with non-scheduled departure
- Alcoholic and bottled beverages
- Guide/Staff gratuities
- Airport transfers for independent arrival or departure
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Payment Schedule
- $700 deposit at time of registration, which includes a $300 non-refundable registration fee
- Balance due 120 days prior to departure
- The balance may be paid by check, wire transfer, ACH or credit card with a 3% convenience fee
Dates
Trek and Safari are Arranged on a Custom Basis — Contact Us
Policies
Cancellation / Refund Policy
- MMI strongly recommends trip cancellation/interruption and evacuation insurance for all trips. Our insurance partner, Ripcord, offers comprehensive travel insurance including trip cancellation, as well as rescue/evacuation policies and can assist in answering any questions. In addition, Participant is expected to have sufficient medical insurance as prescribed by their country of origin. Participant understands that MMI does not include any type of insurance with the cost of the trip.
- If you decide to cancel your trip or change your itinerary, MMI must be notified in writing. Your trip will be cancelled from the date written notice is received. If proper written cancellation notice is not received, amounts paid and reservations made will be forfeited.
- Non-refundable fees may apply for certain trips in order to secure permits and other services. MMI must strictly adhere to cancellation policies outside MMI’s control.
- Due to the personalized service we offer on our trips, MMI reserves the right to waive any fees. We will attempt to accommodate changes and cancellations, waiving certain fees when feasible.
- Circumstances outside the control of MMI and its partners, may require amended cancellation/refund policies. Such circumstances may include, but are not limited to COVID-19, natural disasters, wildfires, terrorism and so forth.
International Trips/Courses:
- Full refund, less the non-refundable registration fee, will be provided 121 days or more before the departure date
- No refunds will be provided 120 days or less before the departure date
Trip Insurance
We strongly recommend the purchase of travel cancellation insurance to protect you from the unexpected. You aren’t likely to think of it now, but people do get ill, break a bone, have a family emergency or get assigned to a last-minute business trip. If you are in remote areas, please note that emergency rescue & evacuation can be very expensive.
We also strongly urge you to consider rescue and evacuation insurance if your own policy does not provide the coverage needed. Services available may include, but are not limited to, helicopter evacuation, medical care, etc.
If you choose not to purchase insurance, you assume full responsibility for any expenses incurred in the event of a medical emergency and/or evacuation, as well as for trip cancellation, interruption, lost luggage, etc. We are not the experts and therefore ask that you please consult our travel insurance partner directly with any specific questions.
To protect against losses due to illness, accident, or other unforeseen circumstances, Mountain Madness strongly recommends the purchase of travel insurance as soon as possible after making a deposit. Mountain Madness has partnered with Redpoint Resolutions as our preferred travel insurance provider. Redpoint’s Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ is designed for adventurers.
For a quote, or to purchase travel insurance, please click this link Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ or call +1 – 415-481‑0600. Pricing varies based on age, trip cost, trip length, and level of coverage.
Critical benefits of Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance include:
- A completely integrated program with a single point of contact for emergency services, travel assistance, and insurance claims
- Evacuation and rescue services from your point of injury or illness to your hospital of choice
- Comprehensive travel insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, primary medical expense coverage, baggage loss or delay, emergency accident and emergency sickness medical expense, emergency dental, accidental death and dismemberment, and more
- Optional security evacuation coverage in case of an unplanned natural disaster or other security events
- Waiver for pre-existing conditions (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
- Optional “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
Itinerary
Flight Information
The total number of days for your trip includes all travel to and from your destination, with some exceptions. Dates listed on the website start with your departure date from the U.S. and include the day you arrive home. For this trip you will need to arrive in Nairobi, Kenya on Day 2. You can arrive any time on Day 2. You will be met at the airport by a Mountain Madness representative and transferred to your hotel.
Your return flight home will also be an overnight flight departing from Nairobi, Kenya in the late evening on the second to last day of the itinerary for a night flight back to the U.S. or your final destination.
Flights may vary if traveling from outside of the U.S. and may shorten the overall duration of your trip.
Please contact our office for any help needed with your flight schedule.
Mount Kenya Trek and Safari Day by Day
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Day 1
Travel
Depart home for Nairobi, Kenya.
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Day 2
Nairobi
Arrive in Nairobi and transfer to hotel
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Day 3
Old Moses Camp
Elevation: 11,155 / 3400 m
Drive from Nairobi to the Mount Kenya National Park where we begin our trek on the Sirimon route. Our hike from the gate (8,858 ft / 2700 m) to Old Moses Camp starts in lush forests and ends in moorland. About 5.6 miles / 9 kilometers of walking in 3 – 4 hours.
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Day 4
Shipton’s Camp
Elevation: 13,898 ft / 4236 m
Continue hiking to Shipton’s camp. Today’s trek up Mackinder’s Valley introduces you the diverse plant life found in the upper reaches of the park, in what people often refer to as a Dr. Seuss-like landscape. About 7.5 miles / 12 kilometers of walking today in 5 – 7 hours.
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Day 5
Shipton’s Camp
Elevation: 13,898 ft / 4236 m
Rest day and acclimatization. Hike around the Shipton’s camp area — possible walk to Lower Simba Tarn or to the pass near the impressive peaks of Sendeyo and Terere where the remains of “Icy Mike,” a deceased elephant that has been theorized to have been driven up the mountain by fire in the lowlands can be found. It is Kenya’s equivalent to the leopard on top of Kilimanjaro.
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Day 6
American Camp
Elevation: 14,731 ft / 4490 m
After ascending to Hausberg Col at 15,062 feet / 4591 meters, we descend to the Oblong and Hausberg Tarns (lakes). Before reaching the American camp, our camp for the night on the south side of the mountain, we pass the tarns of Emerald, Nanyuki, and Two. From the ridge crest and Arthur’s Seat we have incredible views of the mountain. About 6.2 miles / 10 kilometers of walking today in 4 – 6 hours.
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Day 7
Austrian Hut
Elevation: 15,715 ft / 4790 m
From our camp it is a reasonable half day walk up to the Austrian Hut where we have grand views of the surrounding peaks and all the way down to the central highlands. Today is a relatively easy one and allows us to acclimate to the higher elevations of the night’s camp. About 3 miles / 5 kilometers of walking in 2 – 4 hours.
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Day 8
Sirimon Bandas
Elevation: 8,694 ft / 2650 m
Climb Point Lenana (16,358 ft / 4986 m). After enjoying the views, it’s time to pack up and begin the hike out via the Chogoria route. Our goal of the trek today is to reach the Sirimon bandas, small cabins where we stay the night and enjoy the simple pleasure of a shower before our last night in the park. Today’s hike is about 12.5 miles / 20 kilometers in 5 – 8 hours.
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Day 9
Naro Moru River Lodge
Elevation: 6,680 ft / 2036 m
Hike to the Chogoria gate and drive to the Naro Moru River Lodge where we enjoy hot showers, warm beds, and have a chance for some excellent bird watching.
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Day 10
Naro Moru River Lodge
Elevation: 6,680 ft / 2036 m
We start off early today with our first stop at the Sweetwater Reserve where we game view until lunch. After lunch we drive to Samburu National Reserve for afternoon and early evening game viewing. After dinner we can sit comfortably in our camp and enjoy the night sounds of Africa.
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Day 11-12
Nairobi / Fly Home
After a morning safari we enjoy lunch before returning to Nairobi. Today there will be opportunities for souvenir shopping. Night flight for home. Arrive home on Day 12.
Note on Itinerary: Although we do our very best to follow the schedule listed, this itinerary is subject to change due to inclement weather, unsafe route conditions, or other reasons beyond our control and in the guide’s best judgement.
Equipment for Mount Kenya Trek and Safari
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Carrying Gear
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Day pack (30-45L)
With padded shoulder straps and waist belt; used for carrying personal gear such as water bottle, extra clothing, snacks, camera, etc. Individual loads will be between 10 and 20 pounds. A pack with a volume between 1800-2500 cu. in. (30-45 liters) serves most people’s needs well
Examples:
Osprey Stratos
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Pack cover
Waterproof cover
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Large duffel bag (22Lbs Max)
Your mountain gear will be kept in it and the entire duffel will go into the group mountain bag that will be carried by the porters. Limit loads to items on the equipment list. Your large duffel cannot exceed 22 lbs (10 kg) Approximate size: 28”x16”x16” No wheels or hard sides, please
Examples:
Patagonia Black Hole
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Small duffel bag
Large enough to hold everything you’re not taking on the mountain. Will be stored at hotel, to be used after trip
Examples:
Patagonia Black Hole
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Small padlock for duffel bags
Extra security
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Baggage tags
Makes identifying your bags easy at airports or hotels
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Sleeping Gear
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Expedition quality sleeping bag (15-20F)
One down or synthetic bag rated from 15-20°F /-9 to -7°C
Examples:
Marmot Helium, Marmot Trestles, Western Mountaineering Apache, North Face Guide 20
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Sleeping pad (inflatable or closed cell foam)
A foam pad will be provided but a supplemental sleeping pad is advised. This can be an inflatable or closed cell foam pad. Make sure to purchase a pad rated for cold conditions.
Examples:
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir & Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol
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Climbing Gear
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Adjustable trekking poles
Three piece poles recommended
Examples:
Black Diamond Trail Back Pole
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Head and Face
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Fleece or wool hat
It must cover the ears
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Shade hat or baseball cap
A visor hat with a good brim is essential for protection from the sun
Examples:
Mountain Madness trucker hat
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Bandanas or neck gaiter
Various uses, i.e. cleaning glasses, sun protection when tied around the neck, etc. We have our own Mountain Madness neck gaiter available for purchase!
Examples:
Mountain Madness neck gaiter
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Sunglasses or Glacier glasses (w/hard case)
Essential eye protection whether in the tropics, at high altitudes or by the water. Sun glare off the snow can be intense so polarized 100% UVA/UVB glasses work best. Consider bringing a spare pair
Examples:
Julbo
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Hands
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Fleece gloves
Lightweight gloves to use while trekking and hanging around camp
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Climbing gloves
A shell system of a fleece liner and waterproof shell that handles cold
Examples:
Outdoor Research Arete
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Feet
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Thin socks (2 pair)
Two pairs of synthetic or wool socks to wear under heavy wool socks to help prevent blisters and keep feet dry
Examples:
Smartwool or Cool Max
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Thick socks (3 pair)
Three pairs of synthetic or wool socks, medium to heavyweight. Check boot fit with thin and thick socks on
Examples:
Smartwool or Thorlo
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Gaiters
One pair of gaiters made of breathable material; keeps dirt and snow out of boots. Make sure they fit over your boots
Examples:
Outdoor Research Verglas or Crocodiles
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Hiking boots
One pair light to medium-weight hiking/backpacking boots, waterproof, large enough to be comfortable with one thin and one thick sock
Examples:
Salomon Quest 4D
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Tennis shoes or sandals
Lightweight to wear in camp after a long day of hiking
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Upper Body
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Synthetic t-shirts
Two synthetic or merino wool t-shirts. No cotton!
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Long-sleeved Base Layer
Two lightweight to mediumweight, pull-over is best
Examples:
Patagonia Capilene
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Sports bras
Two, synthetic, no cotton!
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Softshell Jacket w/ hood
This is what you will be wearing while hiking at higher altitudes or while kicking around camps at lower altitude. This jacket should be full-zip
Examples:
Outdoor Research Ferrosi
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Hardshell jacket w/ hood
A good jacket made of Gore-Tex (recommended) or waterproof nylon, roomy enough to fit over multiple layers
Examples:
Outdoor Research Foray, Patagonia Triolet
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Down or synthetic jacket w/hood
This is your most important piece of warm gear and will mean the difference between an enjoyable climb or a miserable one. A warm, full zip jacket with hood is recommended and ideal
Examples:
Helly Hansen Vanir, Feathered Friends Volant, Marmot Guide’s Down Hoody, Outdoor Research Virtuoso Hoody
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Sun hoody
This piece with a high SPF rating and lightweight fabric offers protection from high altitude sun
Examples:
Outdoor Research
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Lower Body
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Undergarments
Adequate supply for the entire trip
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Bathing suit (optional)
lightweight and packable
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Hiking shorts
One pair of quick-drying shorts. Good for hiking at lower elevations on the mountain
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Long base layer
Two pairs light or mediumweight
Examples:
Patagonia Capilene
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Softshell pants
Softshell pants are water resistant, yet highly breathable and durable. Great for colder conditions over a pair of long underwear or tights higher on the mountain or summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research Voodoo, Mountain Hardwear Touren, Patagonia Guide
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Hardshell pants
waterproof and breathable with side zips (minimum of ¾ zips recommended) Gore-Tex or equivalent
Examples:
Outdoor Research Furio, Arcteryx Beta AR
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Miscellaneous
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Stuff sacks/ditty bags/plastic bags
To organize gear in your duffle and pack. All clothing should be kept dry using waterproof stuff sacks or large heavyweight plastic bags (trash compactor bags work great)
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Toiletries
Toothbrush and paste, comb, tampons, biodegradable soap (small amount), etc. Bring enough for the entire trip
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Toilet paper
1 – 2 rolls stored in a plastic bag
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Lip balm
Must have SPF rating of 20 or more. Bring two just in case!
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Sunscreen
Bring plenty of sun block with SPF of 40 or more. It's easy to underestimate the amount necessary for your trip!
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Ear plugs
To block out snoring and other noise to ensure a good night's sleep
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Water Bottles/Water System (Trekking)
Two one-liter, wide-mouthed plastic bottles. If you use a collapsible water bottle or hydration system you are welcome to bring it along for drinking water. However, bring at least one hard plastic bottle.
Examples:
Nalgene
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Water purification
Steri Pen, Potable Aqua, Polar Pure crystal iodine. Purifies drinking water while on the trip.
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Water flavoring
Powdered additives like Gatorade or NUUN tablets make treated water taste better
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Headlamp
Bring extra batteries!
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Pocket knife or multitool
Simple Swiss Army type with scissors. Make sure you transport in checked bag, not carry-on!
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Personal first aid and drug kit
small personal first aid kit with ample bandaids and moleskin
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Nausea medications
Pepto Bismol tablets; Maalox, Gelusil M or Mylanta antacid tablets. Donnatal for stomach cramps. Probiotic capsules taken daily may help keep your gastro-intestinal system working smoothly
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Towel
For wash up in camp
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Handi-Wipes
A small pack or two anti-bacterial are great for general hygiene
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Spare contacts and glasses
Contacts can be a problem in dusty conditions, so make sure you have your back-up glasses with you. Glasses wearers should have a spare set
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Umbrella (optional)
Protection from rain and sun; compact and light weight
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Snacks (trek)
Trail snacks are important, and an assortment of candy bars are available at teahouses along the way. Bring some power/energy bars or if there is something else you particularly like to eat while hiking. You will be fed well throughout the trek, so this is just something extra
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Poncho
A poncho is great for lower down on the mountain when it is raining. Rather than having to wear your hard-shell jacket and overheat, just throw the poncho over yourself and your pack and you will stay dry as a bone
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Spare bottle for a pee bottle, and a pee funnel (Lady J or Freshette) for women
It can be a cold walk to the toilet at night
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Insect repellent
A must!
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Personal electronics
Phone with camera, and/or separate camera. Bring extra batteries and memory!
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Electronics charging
If you want to charge your electronics along the way, a small, lightweight solar panel to charge batteries or portable charging device may be a good addition
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Travel power adapter
Most come in kits with all the plugs you need. Double-check to make sure you’re taking the correct adapter/plugs
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Travel clothing
Comfortable clothing for travel before and after the expedition
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Book Trip
Mount Kenya Trek and Safari
$3,850
12 Days / Includes travel time
Elevation
16,358 ft / 4986 m
Route
Sirimon-Chogoria
Difficulty
Intermediate
Trekking involves 5-8 hours per day with large elevation gains of 1,000-2,000+ feet / 305-610+ meters per day. Multiple days of this level of trekking will occur throughout the trip. You should be in great physical shape and participating in 4, 1-hour workouts per week before the trek. At least 1 to 2 days should include hiking with a small pack, leading up to several walks of 5-7 hours, with altitude gain if possible.
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