Mount Kenya Gathiuru Route Trek – Forest & Moorland Wilderness Trail
A True Wilderness Trail of Mount Kenya
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Overview
The Mount Kenya Gathiuru Route is a quiet and rarely used approach entering the mountain from the western side. This route is known for its dense forests, bamboo zones, and scenic moorlands, offering a peaceful trekking experience away from the busier routes. With a moderate ascent profile and rich natural scenery, the Gathiuru Route is ideal for trekkers looking for solitude, nature immersion, and a less commercial trekking experience to Point Lenana.
Highlights
- Quiet and less-traveled Mount Kenya route
- Dense indigenous forests and bamboo zones
- Scenic moorlands and alpine landscapes
- Wildlife sightings in forest sections
- Summit attempt at Point Lenana (4,985 m)
- Traverse trek: Gathiuru → Sirimon
Includes & Excludes
INCLUDES
- Park fees and trekking permits
- Armed ranger (mandatory for this route)
- Professional mountain guide, cook, and porters
- All meals during the trek
- Camping equipment (tents, mattresses)
- Transport to and from Nairobi
- Drinking water during the trek
EXCLUDES
- Personal trekking equipment
- Tips for trekking crew
- Travel insurance
- Alcoholic drinks and snacks
- Any item not mentioned in inclusions
Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi – Gathiuru Gate – Forest Camp (2,600 m)
Early morning departure from Nairobi to Gathiuru Gate. Begin trekking through indigenous forest and bamboo zones with chances to spot wildlife such as buffalo and forest antelope.
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Overnight: Campsite
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Forest Camp – Moorlands Camp (3,200 m)
Ascend gradually through bamboo into open moorlands, with expanding views and cooler temperatures as elevation increases.
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Overnight: Campsite
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Moorlands Camp – Mackinder’s Camp (4,200 m)
Continue trekking toward the Teleki Valley, joining the central Mount Kenya trekking zone beneath the peaks of Batian and Nelion.
Hiking time: 6–7 hours
Overnight: Mackinder’s Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Mackinder’s Camp – Point Lenana (4,985 m) – Old Moses Camp
Early morning summit attempt to Point Lenana, reaching the summit at sunrise. Descend via the Sirimon Route to Old Moses Camp.
Hiking time: 7–8 hours
Overnight: Old Moses Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Old Moses Camp – Sirimon Gate – Nairobi
Descend through moorlands and forest to Sirimon Gate. After lunch, drive back to Nairobi, arriving in the late afternoon.
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Tour Map
Tour Gallery
Group Discount
| Group Size | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 2 – 4 People | $1,000 |
| 5 – 7 People | $850 |
| 8+ People | Special Rate (On Request) |
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided in tents at designated wilderness campsites and mountain huts on descent. Pre- and post-trek hotel accommodation in Nairobi or Nanyuki can be arranged upon request for a seamless experience.
Other Tour Details
Departure: From Nairobi or Nanyuki
Best Time to Trek:
January–March and June–October
Route Type: Gathiuru–Sirimon Traverse
Accommodation: Wilderness camping and mountain huts
Meals: All meals during the trek included
Support Team: Certified mountain guide, cook, porters, and ranger
Tour FAQs
Who is the Gathiuru Route best for?
Trekkers seeking solitude, forest scenery, and a moderate, less-crowded approach.
Is this route suitable for beginners?
Yes, for fit beginners, though some prior hiking experience is recommended.
Is an armed ranger required?
Yes. Wildlife presence in forest zones makes a ranger mandatory.
Do I need technical climbing skills?
No. Point Lenana is a trekking peak and does not require technical climbing skills.
Can this route be extended or combined?
Yes. It is often combined with the Sirimon Route for descent.
