Day 1

After taking the 8 hour shuttle bus from Moshi, Tanzania. I arrived in Nairobi, Kenya and my guide, Samson, met me at the bus stop. Samson is a freelancer and I have received his contact from a Kenyan mountaineer. I made the payment, and a driver is set out to pick me up in two days. New and recent printed 100 dollar bills are required for acceptance. I had some older bills with me, and was thankful I had enough to hire the guide and team.

My driver James made prompt time for the 6:30am pickup and was very cordial. We made the 4 hour drive from Nairobi to Chogoria where I met the team before driving the dirt road to the gate: Chef David, porter Kevin and porter Eric formed the team supporting me for the next few days. We should be out for 5 days minimum and weather permitting, perhaps 6-7 days if needed.

Mount Kenya stands alone in the highlands of central Africa as the highest mountain in Kenya and the second highest in Africa. The Chogoria route is arguably the most scenic route. Mount Kenya has three main peaks: Baitian, Nelion and Lenana. Statistically, about 15,000 people climb the mountain every year and the vast majority go to Pt Lenana at 4985 metres, the third peak on the mountain which is moderately easy to reach. The technical peaks of Nelion and Batian attract just a few hundred each year. 

Chef David made some bomb guacamole and ramen at the gate of Mt Kenya for me and Kevin even set out a green tablecloth on rocks for my enjoyment. I felt a bit overwhelmed and guilty already of the treatment. From 1pm -5:30pm, my guide and I hike to a beautiful waterfall for a lookout then to lake Ellis 3500m (11,480ft) on a rolling fireroad. Rain welcomed us for the last hour as we approached camp with soaked shoes. A group of Polish men were at their mess tent shielding from the rain and partying with alcohol they brought. We made a bet. They had to guess my age and the loser will do pushups. I won. The invitation was sent for some party stuff. I said no. I avoid any substances on the mountains…party can come later.

My guide dried my shoes by the camp fire. Sweet. Hot smokey shoes. I settled in for the evening.

🥾7 miles +2500ft gain 

🏕️ Lake Ellis at 3500m (11,482ft)

<First Photo Team members>(from Left to Right): Chef David, Porter Kevin, Porter, guide Samson, Me, driver James.