Kenya · Trekking

9-Day Mount Kenya Trek and Masai Mara Safari with Point Lenana

9 Days Round trip from R6H7+PGF Challenging pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Summit Point Lenana (4,985m), the third highest peak of Mount Kenya
02 Traverse scenic landscapes from rainforest to alpine terrain
03 Spot elephants, lions, cheetahs, and possibly the Big Five in Masai Mara
04 Explore the Great Rift Valley en route to the Mara
05 Experience local culture and warm Kenyan hospitality
06 Optional hot air balloon safari over the Mara (extra cost)

This 9-day adventure combines the exhilarating challenge of trekking Africa's second-highest peak, Mount Kenya, with the classic wildlife experience of the Masai Mara. Hike through rainforest, alpine meadows, and glacial valleys before summiting Point Lenana (4,985m), then unwind with game drives across the vast savannahs of the Mara, home to the Big Five and the Great Migration (seasonal). Ideal for travelers looking for a balance of active adventure and relaxing exploration.

Hike through rainforest, alpine meadows, and glacial valleys before summiting Point Lenana (4,985m), then unwind with game drives across the vast savannahs of the Mara, home to the Big Five and the Great Migration (seasonal).

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 9 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Challenging

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Nairobi, Masai Mara, Mount Kenya, Chogoria

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Nairobi and Pre-Trek Briefing

Airport pick-up and transfer to your hotel.
Pre-trek briefing and gear check, with optional time for last-minute shopping.
Overnight: Nairobi hotel
Meals: Dinner

Day 02

Nairobi to Mount Kenya and Trek to Old Moses Camp

Morning drive to Sirimon Gate (approx. 4 hrs).
Begin the trek through lush montane forest and heathland.
Hike for approximately 3-4 hours to Old Moses Camp.
Overnight: Mountain hut or tents
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 03

Old Moses Camp to Shipton's Camp

A scenic hike through moorland and Mackinder's Valley.
Expect to see unique flora such as giant lobelias.
Altitude gain of 900 m over 6-7 hours of trekking.
Overnight: Shipton's Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 04

Summit Point Lenana and Descend to Meru Bandas

Early morning summit push to Point Lenana for a sunrise view over Mount Kenya's peaks.
Descend via the Chogoria Route with views of Lake Ellis and Gorges Valley.
Arrive at Meru Bandas (2,900 m) in the forest zone.
Overnight: Bandas or tents
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 05

Chogoria Gate and Transfer Back to Nairobi

Short hike or 4x4 drive out of the forest to Chogoria town.
Drive back to Nairobi for rest.
Overnight: Nairobi hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 06

Nairobi to Masai Mara via the Great Rift Valley

Drive through the Great Rift Valley to Masai Mara Reserve (approx. 5-6 hrs).
Afternoon game drive en route to the lodge or camp.
Overnight: Safari lodge or tented camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 07

Full-Day Game Drives in Masai Mara

Explore the park in search of the Big Five and other wildlife.
Picnic lunch in the savannah or return to camp for lunch.
Optional: Hot air balloon safari and champagne breakfast (extra charge).
Overnight: Safari lodge or camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 08

Morning Game Drive and Return to Nairobi

Early morning game drive.
After breakfast, depart Masai Mara and return to Nairobi.
Overnight: Nairobi hotel or transfer to airport (optional).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 09

Departure Transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport

Transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure flight.
Meals: Breakfast

Where this trip takes you

Point Lenana, Lake Ellis, Great Rift Valley, Masai Mara savannah

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from R6H7+PGF 4 cities · 9 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Airport transfers and all ground transport
Full-board meals on the trek and safari, plus bed and breakfast in Nairobi
All park entry fees (Mount Kenya & Masai Mara)
Accommodation: mountain huts/tents, safari lodges, and Nairobi hotels
Certified trekking guides, porters, and cook
Game drives in custom 4x4 safari vehicles
Drinking water, oxygen cylinder, and first aid on the trek
Emergency evacuation arrangements (local only)

What's Not Included

International flights
Visa fees (Kenya visa required)
Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Tips for guides, porters, and drivers
Personal expenses (souvenirs, beverages, laundry)
Optional balloon safari (approx. $450)

What to bring

Trekking boots, waterproof jacket, and warm layers
Daypack, headlamp, and water bottles or a hydration pack
Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and personal toiletries
Camera or phone for photos
Light safari clothing in neutral tones, with long sleeves for sun protection
Binoculars (optional but great for wildlife viewing)

Know before you go

Best time to go: January-March & July-October
Trek difficulty: Moderate to challenging, with proper acclimatization included
Health: Stay hydrated, and carry medication for altitude and insect protection
Wildlife: Mara offers peak wildlife viewing from July to October (migration season)
Cultural tip: Always ask before photographing local people

Logistics