Old Moses Camp sits at an altitude of 3,300 metres within Mount Kenya National Park, an area defined by its dramatic volcanic geology and distinct Afro-alpine ecological zones. The camp is constructed at the end of the 9-kilometre park road from the Sirimon Gate, serving as the primary logistical and acclimatisation base for treks on this popular route.
Location and Access to Old Moses Camp
Old Moses Camp is positioned within the montane forest belt, a rich ecosystem of giant heather, podocarpus, and juniper trees. Its location marks the critical transition point where trekkers leave vehicle access behind and begin their ascent on foot. Access to the camp from the park's Sirimon Gate follows a rough, unsealed track that requires a 4x4 vehicle. This strategic placement provides a vital first night of acclimatisation before trekkers proceed to higher altitudes, such as the Liki North Valley and Shipton's Camp.
Bunkhouse Accommodation at Old Moses Camp
The primary accommodation at Old Moses Camp comprises a series of large, dormitory-style wooden bunkhouses. These functional structures are built from timber with corrugated iron roofing, engineered for durability against the harsh mountain elements. The interior atmosphere is utilitarian, filled with the distinct scent of wood and cold mountain air. The primary function of the bunkhouses is to provide secure, basic shelter from the low overnight temperatures and precipitation common at this altitude.
Sleeping arrangements are communal and address the need for shelter over comfort. Bunk beds are arranged in tiers, and while mattresses and pillows are generally supplied, their condition can be variable. Trekkers are expected to bring and use their own high-altitude, four-season sleeping bags and liners to ensure adequate warmth and hygiene, as night-time temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
Facilities and Services at Old Moses Camp
The facilities at Old Moses Camp are designed with a singular focus on supporting high-altitude trekking. Amenities are basic, communal, and prioritise function over comfort, reflecting the camp's role as a mountain base rather than a tourist lodge. Everything is structured to provide warmth, sustenance, and basic sanitation in a challenging, remote environment.
The Communal Dining Hall
A central, large wooden hut serves as the dining hall and communal gathering space. This building contains long wooden tables and benches where meals prepared by trekking crews are served. A fireplace or wood-burning stove provides a vital source of warmth in the evenings and acts as a focal point for trekkers to convene. The attached kitchen is a basic facility where mountain guides and cooks prepare the simple, high-carbohydrate meals essential for trekking, such as soups, pasta, and porridge.
Ablutions Block and Water Access
A separate ablutions block contains the toilet and washing facilities, which are rudimentary by design. The structure comprises long-drop or basic flush toilets and a series of cold-water taps in a shared basin area. Hot water is not available for washing. The functionality is aligned with the camp's purpose as a high-altitude base rather than a comfort-oriented lodge; facilities are maintained to a basic standard of cleanliness but are subject to the challenges of the remote mountain environment.
Operational Realities of a High-Altitude Camp
Old Moses Camp operates entirely off-grid. A small solar panel system generates low-wattage power, providing limited lighting for the communal dining hall during the evening hours. There is no camp-wide electricity and, crucially, the camp provides no facilities for charging personal electronic devices such as phones, cameras, or GPS units. Trekkers must be completely self-sufficient with their own power banks. The camp also has no Wi-Fi or mobile phone reception, reinforcing its remote and disconnected mountain setting.
- The perimeter is unfenced, which is typical for mountain camps in the park.
- The primary water source is from mountain streams and requires purification or treatment before consumption.
- All waste must be packed out by each trekking group as part of leave-no-trace principles.
- Resident camp staff are on site to provide basic oversight and maintenance.
Old Moses Camp at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 3,300 Metres |
| Trekking Route | Sirimon Route |
| Accommodation Style | Communal Bunkhouses |
| Power Supply | Limited Solar (Communal Area Only) |
| Device Charging | Not Available |
| Water Supply | Cold Running Water Only |
Who Should Stay at Old Moses Camp
Old Moses Camp serves as an essential and non-negotiable logistical stop for mountaineers acclimatising for an ascent of Mount Kenya. The camp's suitability is strictly limited to functional overnight stays. It is fundamentally unsuitable for any traveller seeking comfort, privacy, or conventional hospitality services. Due to its basic bunkhouse accommodation, lack of power for personal use, and rudimentary facilities, it is purpose-built for serious trekkers and climbers who require a secure base to begin their climb.
