Burguret route
The Burguret route starts from the west, between the Naromoru route and the Sirimon route. There is also no KWS Park Gate, so prior arrangements have to be made with the rangers, payments made, and receipts collected at another gate beforehand. It is rarely used and does not have a distinct path that can be followed in the way that the others above can, nor does it have any huts or facilities. The guides will likely need to help with “route-finding” in the lower stretch of the bamboo belt. This is unless there is a recent group that has traversed there. This means that the actual, precise route taken will vary from time to time until it reaches the moorlands.
The next stage from the moorland is easier in terms of route finding as the ground is more open, however, it is again a matter of orienteering up to the next camp at the rocky outcrops of Highland Castle, 3700m. From here, the route continues up, thinning flora along the ridge to meet the summit circuit. It gives out options of either heading to Shipton’s camp, Mackinder’s Valley, or descending Teleki Valley to Mackinder’s camp.
Since the Burguret route is not highly used due to its added difficulties of route finding and lack of facilities, it is a major attraction to those who enjoy private hikes away from the crowded trails. In addition, it is along this route that Felice Benuzzi, Giovanni Balletto, and Vincenzo Barsotti made their remarkable climb of the mountain when they escaped from the British PoW {Prisoners of War} Camp in Nanyuki in 1943. The story is recorded in Benuzzi’s fantastic account, “No Picnic on Mount Kenya.”
In a nutshell,
The Burguret route is one of the lesser-known routes for climbing Mount Kenya, the second-highest mountain in Africa after Kilimanjaro. Mount Kenya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located in central Kenya, about 175 kilometres northeast of Nairobi.
The Burguret route starts from Burguret village, which is situated on the western side of Mount Kenya. Unlike the more popular routes, such as Sirimon and Naro Moru, the Burguret route is less crowded. It offers climbers a more remote and adventurous experience.
The trail begins in dense montane forest, gradually ascending through bamboo and montane forest zones. As climbers gain elevation, the landscape changes to heathland and eventually alpine moorland. Along the way, trekkers may encounter diverse flora and fauna, including unique plant species. You are likely to see wildlife such as monkeys, buffalo, and various bird species.
The Burguret route often requires more time to complete than other routes. This is due to its longer distance and more gradual climbing profile. For seasoned hikers looking for a more difficult and uncrowded path to the summit of Mount Kenya, it is frequently advised.
Climbers should be well-prepared and equipped for high-altitude trekking, including appropriate clothing and acclimatization. Awareness of mountain safety procedures, even though the Burguret path offers breathtaking vistas and a sense of seclusion. Additionally, it’s advisable to arrange the trek through a reputable tour operator. A certified guide who is familiar with the route and the conditions on Mount Kenya.
