Mount Longonot National Park is one of Kenya’s most thrilling hiking destinations — a towering volcanic peak rising dramatically from the Great Rift Valley floor. Located just 60 km northwest of Nairobi, this park is perfect for adventurers seeking a rewarding day hike, stunning crater views, and breathtaking panoramas of the Rift Valley and Lake Naivasha.
Climbing Mount Longonot offers an exciting challenge — a steep ascent up the mountain’s flanks to the crater rim, followed by an optional 7.2-km trek around the rim itself. From the summit, hikers are rewarded with sweeping views across the Rift Valley escarpments and the shimmering waters of Lake Naivasha below.
Where is Mount Longonot National Park?
Mount Longonot lies in Nakuru County, along the Nairobi–Naivasha Highway, making it one of the most accessible mountain parks from Kenya’s capital.
- By Road: Approximately 1.5 hours from Nairobi via Mai Mahiu Road.
Why Visit Mount Longonot National Park
Mount Longonot offers the perfect blend of adventure, scenery, and wildlife — all within a short drive from Nairobi.
- 🏔️ Volcanic Crater Adventure: Hike up a dormant stratovolcano formed thousands of years ago for an unforgettable crater experience.
- 🌄 360° Panoramic Views: The crater rim reveals breathtaking vistas of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha, and the distant Aberdare ranges.
- 🦓 Wildlife Encounters: Spot zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, elands, and antelopes on the lower slopes, as well as over 100 bird species including Verreaux’s eagles.
- 🚗 Perfect Day Trip: Its proximity to Nairobi makes it an easy and rewarding one-day adventure — often combined with Hell’s Gate or Lake Naivasha tours.
Wildlife at Mount Longonot
Though best known for hiking, Mount Longonot also supports a surprising array of wildlife:
- Mammals: Giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, elands, Thomson’s gazelles, and warthogs.
- Birds: Verreaux’s eagles, vultures, augur buzzards, and various Rift Valley species can often be seen circling above the crater rim.
Best Time to Visit Mount Longonot National Park
- Dry Season (January–March, June–October): Ideal for hiking, with clear skies and firm trails.
- Green Season (April–May, November): The scenery is lush and photogenic, though trails may be slippery after rain.
Top Things to Do at Mount Longonot
- 🥾 Hike to the Crater Rim: A 3.1-km steep ascent from the park gate to the crater edge — rewarding you with sweeping Rift Valley views.
- 🔁 Crater Rim Circuit: A 7.2-km loop around the rim for fit hikers seeking panoramic photo opportunities.
- 📸 Photography: Capture dramatic landscapes, the vast crater interior, and wildlife on the slopes.
- 🦒 Wildlife Viewing: Look out for plains game grazing below the volcanic cliffs.
Photography Highlights
- 🌋 Volcanic Crater: Capture the deep, forest-filled crater floor surrounded by rugged cliffs.
- 🌄 Rim Vistas: Perfect wide-angle shots of the Great Rift Valley and Lake Naivasha.
- 🦓 Wildlife on the Slopes: Giraffes and zebras framed by the volcanic backdrop make striking compositions.
Sample Itinerary – 1-Day Mount Longonot Hike
Morning: Depart Nairobi early and drive to Mount Longonot National Park. Begin your ascent, enjoying sightings of plains game on the lower slopes.
Midday: Reach the crater rim for sweeping views and, for the fit, continue around the 7.2-km circuit. Enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the Rift Valley.
Afternoon: Descend to the gate and return to Nairobi, or continue to Lake Naivasha for an optional boat ride or sundowner.
Conservation & Park Management
Mount Longonot National Park is managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). Entrance fees help fund conservation, protect volcanic habitats, and support anti-poaching initiatives across the Rift Valley ecosystem.
FAQs – Mount Longonot National Park
How long does it take to hike Mount Longonot?
The climb to the rim takes about 1.5–2 hours, and the full rim circuit adds another 2–3 hours, depending on pace.
Is the hike suitable for beginners?
Yes — while steep in parts, hikers with moderate fitness can reach the rim comfortably.
Can I combine Mount Longonot with other attractions?
Absolutely. The hike pairs perfectly with Lake Naivasha boat rides or Hell’s Gate National Park visits.
What should I carry?
Bring sun protection, plenty of water, sturdy shoes, and a camera for the spectacular views.
Book Your Mount Longonot Adventure with Ahambi Tours
Experience one of Kenya’s most accessible and scenic hikes with Ahambi Tours. Whether you’re after a short adventure or a full Rift Valley exploration, our expert guides ensure a safe, rewarding, and unforgettable experience.
Plan your Mount Longonot day trip today — or combine it with Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate for a perfect Rift Valley adventure.
Contact Ahambi Tours: ahambitours.co.ke info@ahambitours.co.ke WhatsApp: +254 725 727167