8-Day Timau Summit Circuit

An eight-day northern approach and high-level circuit of Mount Kenya, trekking from Timau through Marania, Major’s Camp and Upper Simba Tarn before crossing Point Lenana, Teleki Valley and the Eastern Terminal traverse.

The Timau Route approaches Mount Kenya from the north, beginning on gentler slopes before the mountain steepens above 4,200 m. From this side, the peaks appear to line up like a complete mountain range. The programme is longer and more remote than a standard Point Lenana trek, combining the northern approach with a substantial circuit through several of Mount Kenya’s most distinctive valleys.

At a glance

• Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
• Route: Timau approach, Point Lenana and summit circuit, Sirimon finish
• High point: Point Lenana, 4,985 m
• Style: Remote, fully supported mountain expedition
• Start and finish: Nairobi

Why choose this journey?

Choose Timau when you want a quieter northern approach, long views across the Laikipia plateau and more time above the moorland. The route’s eight-day structure allows a genuine circuit rather than a simple up-and-down trek. Read our Timau Route guide and Mount Kenya Summit Circuit guide before comparing it with the shorter traverses.

Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1 — Arrival in Nairobi

Meet the team on arrival and transfer from the airport to your Nairobi hotel. The remainder of the day depends on your flight time and provides space to rest, organise equipment and review the expedition.

Day 2 — Timau trailhead to Marania Camp (3,200 m)

Drive via Nanyuki to the Timau trailhead at about 2,700 m. Begin at the edge of the moorland, climbing through bamboo and heather. The northern slopes can support eland, zebra, buffalo and occasionally elephant, though wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. After a picnic lunch, continue to Marania Camp. Approx. 8 km, 4 hours, +500 m.

Day 3 — Marania to Major’s Camp (3,800 m)

Walk steadily through the moorland towards the Mount Kenya massif. Pause near Marania Spring for a picnic lunch before continuing to Major’s Camp beneath dramatic rock faces. Approx. 14 km, 8 hours, +600 m.

Day 4 — Major’s Camp to Upper Simba Tarn (4,650 m)

Make a long, gradual ascent through a lunar high-altitude landscape. Giant groundsels and lobelias appear around the Hobley Valley beneath Terere and Sendeyo. Finish at Upper Simba Tarn above the Gorges Valley. Approx. 12 km, 8 hours, +850 m.

Day 5 — Point Lenana to Teleki Valley

Depart at about 5:30 am for Point Lenana. On a clear morning, sunrise opens broad views across the mountain and plains beyond. Descend the southern side towards Teleki Valley for brunch and a restful afternoon beneath the central peaks. Approx. 18 km, 5–6 hours; highest point 4,985 m.

Day 6 — Teleki Valley to Mackinder Valley via the Eastern Terminal traverse

Pass Hut Tarn and Arthur’s Seat on a high traverse around the mountain to camp below Shipton’s in Mackinder Valley. This is one of the most scenic sections of the circuit. Approx. 18 km, 6 hours; camp around 4,300 m.

Day 7 — Mackinder Valley to Old Moses

Descend through Mackinder Valley to Old Moses at about 3,200 m. Meet the vehicle and transfer to your hotel for a shower, hot meal and overnight rest.

Day 8 — Return to Nairobi

After breakfast, transfer to Nairobi for your onward arrangements or international flight.

Pricing per person

Food, team and expedition support

Our mountain cooks prepare fresh, substantial meals designed for long days at altitude, with vegetarian, vegan and other dietary requirements catered for when advised in advance. Your guide, cook and porter team work as one expedition unit, with responsible loads, organised camps and crew welfare built into the plan. Review the Mount Kenya planning guide for equipment, altitude and preparation advice.

Plan this expedition

Tell us your dates, group size and previous high-altitude trekking experience. We check current Timau access and the operational camp plan before every departure.