Shipton’s Camp Elevation / Altitude: 4,236 m above sea level.
Shipton’s Camp, situated on Mount Kenya, is a vital stopover point for climbers ascending the mountain via the Sirimon route. Administered by Bantu Utamaduni Lodge, this campsite offers not only essential amenities but also stunning views of the mountain’s main peaks.
Home to a diverse array of wildlife, Shipton’s Camp is frequented by rock hyrax, striped mice, various species of sunbirds, and Alpine Chats. The skies above are often graced by the majestic flight of Mountain Buzzards. The camp’s vegetation is dominated by towering giant groundsel, interspersed with vibrant flowers and lobelia. From the camp, visitors can admire the awe-inspiring silhouette of Points Peter and Dutton, with the imposing Batian towering over them. Thompson’s Flake and Point Thompson, along with Point Lenana across the Gregory Glacier, are also visible, framed against the backdrop of the Krapf Rognon and the Krapf Glacier. The camp is situated in a prime location for birdwatching, with the opportunity to spot Verreaux’s Eagle and African Black Swifts. The surrounding landscape is also home to unique flora such as the giant lobelia and groundsels.
Accommodation options at Shipton’s Camp include cabin lodging within dormitory-style wooden houses. Each cabin features several rooms with multiple bunk beds, while a spacious communal area serves as a dining area and gathering space. Visitors can choose between staying in the cabins or setting up their own tents, with cabin reservations requiring booking.
Facilities at the campsite include long drop pit latrines outdoors, as well as indoor W.Cs with running cold water. Separate sleeping quarters are provided for guides and porters, ensuring their comfort during the expedition.
Shipton’s Camp serves as a hub for climbers embarking on the final leg of their journey to Point Lenana. Many visitors spend a night here before commencing the ascent to Point Lenana in the early hours of the morning.
Location
Located near Mackinder’s Valley and the Liki River, Shipton’s Camp is accessed via a challenging three-hour hike up a steep slope from the valley. The surrounding landscape boasts sparse vegetation, characterized by giant groundsels and grassy mounds, with occasional sightings of rodents and birds. This distinctive vegetation marks the transition into the alpine desert region of the mountain. At an elevation of 4,200 meters, Shipton’s Camp offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, providing climbers with a serene setting to rest and acclimatize before their final push to Point Lenana. The camp also features basic amenities such as bunkhouses, toilets, and a dining area for visitors to refuel and recharge before their summit attempt.
