Mount Longonot hiking is an unforgettable adventure that offers breathtaking views of the Rift Valley and a challenging hike to the crater summit. Learn more about what to expect and how to prepare for this exciting activity.
Mount Longonot is a dormant volcano that last erupted in the 1800s. Located just 90km from Nairobi, it is the perfect location for an adventurous day trip out of the Kenyan capital.
Requiring a modest level of physical fitness, the 4-5 hour hike takes you to the very rim of the volcano crater for a glimpse out across the Great Rift Valley. The early portion of your hike takes you through land inhabited by wildlife such as buffalo, antelope, and even leopards, while the higher reaches are steep and require a good level of determination.
How long is the Hike
The MT LONGONOT HIKING DAY TOUR takes between 3-5 hours depending on pace and fitness. The hike from gate to the crater rim is 3.1km in length but the height gain is rapid and this makes for a stiff climb. One can also decide to circumnavigate the crater rim which is a distance of 7.2km. The hiking trail is provided with some rest points but its narrow especially on the crater rim.
The total length of the hike up, around the crater rim and back is 10.3km through some narrow paths and treacherously steep inclines. You can climb with some packed lunch that you can have at the crater rim or descend to the base and go for a lunch at the Lake Naivasha restaurants.
Nairobi (Your Hotel)
Morning Hrs
The mountain is close to the city so most tours start at 7:00am and start the climb by 8:30am. An itinerary of the mt Longonot national park hiking tour looks like this one here:
7:00am: Leave Nairobi for mt Longonot national park
8:30am: Start the hike up the mountain
10:30am: Reach the Mt Longonot crater rim and go around the crater.
12:30pm: Descend to the base and depart for lake Naivasha.
1:00pm: Enjoy a lunch at the fisherman camp
2:00pm: Optional boat ride in the lake Naivasha
3:30pm: Depart for Nairobi
5:30pm: Drop off in town or hotel. End of Mt Longonot national park Tour.
Children below 12 years pays 70% of Adult rate.
Children below 12 years pays 70% of Adult rate.
