How difficult is the Burguret Chogoria traverse?

The Burguret Chogoria traverse is a hard but non-technical trek. Days are 4 to 10 hours on rough, sometimes muddy paths, and the summit day is long. No climbing skills are needed, but good fitness and a steady pace are essential.

What is the highest point of the trek?

The highest point is Point Lenana at 4,985 m, reached at sunrise on day 4. You also cross Hausberg Col at about 4,600 m on day 3.

When is the best time for this traverse?

The driest months are January to February and late June to early October. The Burguret forest can be very muddy after rain, so we avoid April, May and November.

Are there wild animals on the Burguret route?

Yes. The bamboo forest on the Burguret route is home to elephant and buffalo, so you walk with an experienced guide who knows the area. Sightings are possible but animals usually keep their distance.

Can this trek be arranged for a group?

Yes. The traverse works well for clubs and groups of friends. We add guides so there is at least one guide for every four trekkers. Contact us with your dates and group size.

Burguret Chogoria Traverse: 5 Wild Days Across Mount Kenya

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This Burguret Chogoria traverse crosses Mount Kenya from its quiet western forests to the lakes and gorges of the east, with Point Lenana at sunrise.

Overview

Day by Day

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FAQs

This Burguret Chogoria traverse is a 5-day guided trek over Mount Kenya. You start on the little-used Burguret route near Nanyuki, camp at Giant Bamboo Camp and Highland Castle, cross Hausberg Col (about 4,600 m) to Shipton’s Camp, summit Point Lenana (4,985 m) at dawn and descend the scenic Chogoria route. It is a non-technical trek for fit hikers who want a wilder line than the busy routes.

Why choose the Burguret Chogoria traverse?

Burguret is the wildest approach on Mount Kenya. Its bamboo forest is home to elephant and buffalo, and you will meet few other trekkers until Shipton’s Camp. Descending by Chogoria, the most scenic side of the mountain, means you see two very different landscapes in five days.

Crossing Hausberg Col before sleeping lower at Shipton’s follows the ‘climb high, sleep low’ rule, which helps acclimatisation.

What to expect on the Burguret Chogoria traverse

Day 1 is about 4 hours from the Gathiuru forest station to Giant Bamboo Camp (about 2,600 m). Day 2 climbs about 1,100 m to Highland Castle (about 3,700 m), and day 3 crosses Hausberg Col to Shipton’s Camp (about 4,200 m). Day 4 is the long summit day: Point Lenana at sunrise and a descent of around 10 hours to the Chogoria side. Day 5 is a short walk out and the drive to Nairobi.

How fit do I need to be?

You should be comfortable walking 6 to 10 hours on rough ground for several days. Train with long hill walks for six to eight weeks. Our guides set a slow pace to help you adjust to the altitude.

Compare it with our 5 day Sirimon to Chogoria traverse, and check our Kenya packing list before you go.

How do I book this climb?

Prices depend on your dates, group size and whether you want huts, camping or extra nights, so we quote every climb personally. WhatsApp us on +254 706 223888, email [email protected] or request a tailor-made quote. If you are travelling with friends, a club or colleagues, see our page on climbing as a group.