Mount Kenya is not Kilimanjaro. The trails are steeper, the weather changes faster, and the reward is a more alpine, less crowded experience. Here is what we recommend clients bring for a 5-day Sirimon-Chogoria trek.
**Essential gear (do not rent — bring your own)**
- 4-season sleeping bag rated to -10°C. The mountain gets cold above 4,000 m, even in the dry season.
- Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots. Do not wear new boots on the mountain — blisters will end your trek.
- Waterproof shell jacket and trousers. Afternoon rain is common, and the moorland gets soaked.
- Insulated jacket (down or synthetic). For summit night, you will layer this over everything else.
- Headlamp with spare batteries. The summit push starts at 02:30 in pitch dark.
**Rentable locally (cheaper than flying it in)**
- Sleeping mat (Therm-a-Rest style)
- Trekking poles (highly recommended for descent)
- Day pack (if yours is too small)
- Gaiters (helpful in wet conditions)
**What to leave behind**
- Heavy DSLR cameras unless you are a serious photographer. The summit push is exhausting — every gram matters.
- Multiple changes of clothes. Two base layers and one mid layer is plenty. You will not shower.
- Big toiletry bags. Just toothbrush, small toothpaste, wet wipes, lip balm with SPF.
- Cotton clothing. Cotton holds moisture and cools you down — synthetic or wool only.
**The non-obvious essentials**
- 1.5 L water bottles (2 of them). Hydration is your best defence against altitude sickness.
- Diamox (acetazolamide) — consult your doctor. Most trekkers take 125 mg twice daily from day 2.
- Sunscreen SPF 50+. UV intensity at 4,000 m is brutal.
- Buff or neck gaiter. Covers your mouth on the dusty descent.
**Need help?** We provide a complete gear check at the pre-trek briefing in Nairobi. If anything is missing, we will help you rent or buy locally before departure.