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Offered languages
- English
Lake Ellis and Lake Michaelson are two of Mount Kenya's most iconic alpine lakes, both accessed via the scenic eastern Chogoria Route but offering completely different wilderness experiences. Lake Ellis sits at a lower, gentler altitude of 3,455 meters nestled within open, rolling moorlands, making its shallow crater waters ideal for relaxed camping, trout fishing, and easy acclimatization with wide views of the main peaks. In contrast, Lake Michaelson is a dramatic, emerald-green tarn hidden at a grueling 4,000 meters deep within the Gorges Valley, completely hemmed in by the towering 300-meter vertical cliffs of The Temple and surrounded by prehistoric giant groundsels. While Lake Ellis provides a peaceful and easily accessible introduction to the mountain, Lake Michaelson offers a raw, isolated, and freezing high-altitude sanctuary for seasoned trekkers
What's Included
Lunch
Dinner
Breakfast
Meeting and pickup
Our driver Guide will come to pick you up at your hotel lobby within Nairobi
Itinerary
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1
Depart Nairobi early in the morning and drive through Kenya's scenic central highlands to Chogoria Town, arriving at Chogoria Gate for registration and a briefing by your mountain guide. Begin your hike through lush bamboo forests, montane woodland, and open moorland, with opportunities to admire the changing landscapes and wildlife along the way. Stop for a picnic lunch before continuing to the picturesque Lake Ellis, where you'll enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Kenya's peaks. Spend the evening relaxing by the tranquil alpine lake as you acclimatize to the altitude, followed by dinner and an overnight stay at the lakeside campsite.
8 hours • Admission ticket free -
2
After an early breakfast, set off on a rewarding hike across the expansive moorlands toward the spectacular Gorges Valley. The trail offers magnificent views of rugged cliffs, alpine vegetation, and the towering peaks of Mount Kenya. Descend into the valley to reach the stunning Lake Michaelson, one of the mountain's most beautiful glacial lakes, nestled beneath dramatic rock walls. After lunch, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, take photographs, or simply relax by the lakeshore before dinner and an overnight stay at the campsite.
8 hours • Admission ticket free -
3Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
Wake up to the serene beauty of Lake Michaelson and enjoy breakfast before beginning your return trek through the scenic Chogoria Route. Hike back across the moorlands to meet your transfer vehicle near Chogoria Gate, taking in the final views of Mount Kenya's unique landscapes. After the hike, drive back to Nairobi with a lunch stop en route, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening to mark the end of your memorable 3-day Lake Ellis and Lake Michaelson hiking safari.
8 hours • Admission ticket included
Nairobi- lake Ellis
Lake Ellis to Lake Michaelson
Lake Michaelson to Nairobi
Additional info
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Tags
Cancellation Policy
If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 3 full days before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 3 full days before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
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