Mount Kenya Timau Route Trek – Gentle Northern Wilderness Approach
A Gentle Path Through Mount Kenya’s North
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Overview
The Mount Kenya Timau Route is the longest and gentlest approach to Mount Kenya, entering the mountain from the remote northern side. This route is known for its wide open landscapes, minimal crowds, and exceptional acclimatization profile. With gradual elevation gain and expansive views across the northern plains, the Timau Route is perfect for trekkers who prefer a relaxed pace, scenic wilderness, and higher summit success rates to Point Lenana.
Highlights
- Longest and gentlest Mount Kenya route
- Excellent acclimatization and high summit success rate
- Remote northern wilderness scenery
- Minimal crowds and wide-open landscapes
- Summit attempt at Point Lenana (4,985 m)
- Traverse trek: Timau → Sirimon
Includes & Excludes
INCLUDES
- Park fees and trekking permits
- Armed ranger (mandatory for Timau 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 – Timau Gate – Camp (2,700 m)
Early departure from Nairobi to the Timau Gate on Mount Kenya’s northern side. Begin trekking through open grasslands and forested terrain with gentle slopes.
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Overnight: Campsite
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Timau Gate – Heath Zone Camp (3,200 m)
Trek through heath and moorland vegetation with wide-open views and minimal elevation gain. The gradual ascent supports excellent acclimatization.
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Overnight: Campsite
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Heath Zone – Moorlands Camp (3,700 m)
Continue ascending slowly through alpine moorlands. Enjoy scenic landscapes and a peaceful trekking environment with few other trekkers.
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Overnight: Campsite
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Moorlands Camp – Mackinder’s Camp (4,200 m)
Traverse toward the Teleki Valley, joining the central Mount Kenya trekking area beneath Batian and Nelion peaks.
Hiking time: 6–7 hours
Overnight: Mackinder’s Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Mackinder’s Camp – Point Lenana (4,985 m) – Old Moses Camp
Early morning summit attempt to Point Lenana, followed by descent via the Sirimon Route to Old Moses Camp.
Hiking time: 7–8 hours
Overnight: Old Moses Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Old Moses Camp – Sirimon Gate – Nairobi
Descend through moorland and forest to Sirimon Gate. After lunch, drive back to Nairobi, arriving in the late afternoon or evening.
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Tour Map
Tour Gallery
Group Discount
| Group Size | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 2 – 4 People | $1,100 |
| 5 – 7 People | $900 |
| 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: Timau–Sirimon Traverse
Accommodation: Wilderness camps and mountain huts
Meals: All meals during the trek included
Support Team: Certified mountain guide, cook, porters, and ranger
Tour FAQs
Who should choose the Timau Route?
Trekkers who want the best acclimatization profile, fewer crowds, and a relaxed pace.
Is this route suitable for beginners?
Yes, for reasonably fit beginners, due to its gradual ascent.
Is an armed ranger required?
Yes. Due to wildlife presence and remoteness, a ranger is 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 shortened?
Not recommended, as the gradual ascent is key to its success and safety.
