6-Day Mt Kenya Climb – Timau Route Traverse | Rough North Kenya

6-Day Mt Kenya Climb – Timau Route Traverse | Rough North Kenya

The Timau Route (also sometimes called the Northern Route or Timau Trail) is one of the lesser-used, more remote approaches to Mount Kenya. It starts from the north side near Timau town (close to Nanyuki), lies in a major rain shadow (so drier conditions, minimal forest, open moorland), and offers gentle slopes with expansive views that make the peaks look like a whole mountain range lined up east-west.

Day 1: Nairobi to Timau Roadhead – Marania Camp

Depart Nairobi early (morning transfer ~4 hours) to Timau town/Nanyuki area. Lunch en route. Drive to Timau trailhead (2,700 m). Start the trek through open moorland and patches of bamboo/heather. Gentle ascent to Marania Camp (3,200 m) — stunning views over Laikipia plains and Lewa Downs. Dinner and overnight at camp. (Meals: Lunch, Dinner) (Trekking: 3–4 hours, ~9 km, +500 m)

Day 2: Marania Camp to Kichichi Camp

Hike through unique lunar-like moorland with endemic giant groundsels and lobelias. Views of Terere and Sendeyo massifs (named after Maasai wise men). Pass rare wildlife (eland, zebra, buffalo). Picnic lunch on the crater rim. Continue to Kichichi Camp (3,750 m) in a valley below the peaks. Dinner and overnight at camp. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) (Trekking: 6–8 hours, ~14 km, +550 m)

Day 3: Kichichi Camp to Lake Alice Camp / Shipton Area

Ascend through high-altitude desert landscape with views of Lake Alice and surrounding peaks (third-highest area on Mt Kenya). Join the summit circuit. Arrive at high camp near Lake Alice or Shipton’s area (~4,000–4,200 m). Dinner and overnight at camp. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) (Trekking: 6–7 hours, +400–600 m)

Day 4: Summit Day – Point Lenana & Descent to Hall Tarns

Early start (5:30 AM) for sunrise summit push. Climb to Point Lenana (4,985 m) for 360° views (Kilimanjaro visible on clear days). After photos/celebration, descend to Hall Tarns (4,300 m) for breakfast and rest. Afternoon relax at this dramatic cliffside spot overlooking Gorges Valley. Dinner and overnight at camp. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) (Trekking: 6–8 hours round trip to summit, then descent)

Day 5: Hall Tarns to Chogoria Bandas

Gentle descent along a broad ridge with epic views back to the snowy peaks. Pass waterfalls, tarns, and lava flows in the stunning Gorges Valley. Arrive at Meru Mt. Kenya Bandas — enjoy hot showers, log fires, beds, and possibly Tusker beers if supply vehicles reach! Evening wildlife viewing (elephants/buffalo grazing nearby). Dinner and overnight at bandas. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) (Trekking: 5–7 hours)

Day 6: Chogoria Bandas to Nairobi

After breakfast, walk (or optional jeep transfer) down through bamboo and forest to Chogoria village (~3–4 hours). Meet transport for the drive back to Nairobi (arrive late afternoon). (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch)

Includes

• Airport pick-up/drop-off in Nairobi
• Round-trip 4x4 transport to/from trailheads
• All national park entrance fees and taxes
• Full-board meals (B/L/D as detailed)
• Professional English-speaking mountain guide, porters, and cook
• Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats) + bandas on descent
• Drinking water throughout
• Emergency evacuation insurance
• Certificate on successful summit

Excludes

• International flights
• Travel/personal insurance (mandatory)
• Tips/gratuities (suggested KES 1,000–2,000 per day per group)
• Accommodation before/after trek in Nairobi
• Personal gear (sleeping bag, trekking poles, warm clothing)
• Snacks, alcoholic drinks, bottled water extras
• Any optional activities or items not listed