Timau route, on Mt Kenya, runs from the north of the mountain. It is the most gentle and easy trail to the mountain. The Timau route follows deep tracks made by 4×4 trucks. It follows a meandering route through the gentler northern slopes until they steepen at around 4200m. From here, two options are: climbing Sendeyo peaks into Mackinders Valley to Shipton’s camp. It can drop abruptly into and across the Hinde Valley and the Nithi North River. This option climbs up to meet the Chogoria route at Hall Tarns.

Conditions vary on the route, but vehicles {with ample ground clearance} generally can ascend to about 3,400m. It is possible to climb via this route only if a prior booking is made. The route has no official park gate, and park fees must be paid in advance at other gates. The rarely trodden Timau route is best for nature-loving mountaineers as they trek around the peaks and sample incredible mountain views. The trek features dense forest vegetation, moorland, and the best vintage points to spot mountain lakes. This will give you an unparalleled experience of the mountain with a tincture of exclusivity, as you will avoid the crowded paths of the mountain.

The Timau route on Mount Kenya sounds like a serene and less-travelled path. It is perfect for those seeking a more intimate experience with nature and the mountain. Following the gentle northern slopes, trekkers can enjoy the gradual ascent until the terrain becomes steeper around 4200m. The option to either climb Sendeyo peaks or descend into Hinde Valley provides a diverse range of experiences for hikers.

Given that those vehicles with ample ground clearance can ascend to about 3,400 m. The Timau route offers a unique opportunity for those who wish to combine hiking with some off-road adventure. The requirement for prior booking adds to the exclusivity of the route, ensuring that it remains less crowded and preserving its pristine beauty.

From dense forest vegetation to moorland and stunning mountain views, the Timau route seems to offer a rich tapestry of landscapes for adventurers to explore. The chance to spot mountain lakes along the way indeed, adds to the allure of this trek.

Overall, the Timau route appears to be a hidden gem for nature-loving mountaineers seeking an unparalleled experience on Mount Kenya.