Hike Difficulty: Moderate
Beginner Friendly: YES
Child Friendly: YES (7 years and above)
Maximum ASL: 2,780m
Gate Elevation: 2,150 m
Elevation Gain: 996m
Up the mountain: 3.1km
Round the Rim: 7.2 km
Total distance: 13.5km
Introduction to Mt. Longonot
Mt. Longonot is a dormant stratovolcano mountain that is located in the heart of The Great Rift Valley, Nakuru County, Kenya. It is a popular hiking destination due to its relatively easy accessibility from Nairobi and the stunning views it offers from its summit. Hiking Mt Longonot is a rewarding experience, offering scenic views of the flora and fauna and a sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit. Just remember to respect the environment and leave nothing behind but footsteps.
Location and Accessibility
Mt Longonot is about 60 km northwest of the capital city Nairobi. Mount Longonot is located 45 minutes away from Naivasha Town while the nearby town is Longonot Town. Mt Longonot is situated inside Mt Longonot National Park, the park covers an area of 154 square km and is being managed by Kenya Wildlife Service.
The Hiking Experience
The hike up Mt Longonot typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to ascend, depending on your pace and fitness level. The trail is well-defined and not overly steep, making it suitable for most beginners. However, the altitude gain is about 996m and breaks between the hike are essential.
Summit Views and Wildlife
Mt Longonot summit is about 2,776 meters (9,108 feet) above sea level, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. At the summit, Lake Naivasha is notable with the massive number of birds. Mt Longonot National Park has different wildlife such as the cape buffalo, giraffes, Thompson’s gazelle, eland antelope, zebras and leopards.
You are recommended to start the hike early enough to avoid the daytime heat, as temperatures rise significantly, especially during the dry season.
Activities
- Bird watching
- Game viewing
- Biking
- Forest nature trail
- Rock climbing
Itinerary
6:00 am: Meet up in Nairobi CBD.
6:30 am: Departure to Mt Longonot.
7:30 am: Stopover for refreshment, sightseeing and photography.
9:00 am: Arrival and check in at Mt Longonot National Park.
9:30 am: Professional warm up and stretches.
9:45 am: Hike starts.
12:30 pm: Round the rim.
2:00 pm: Descent the mountain.
4:00 pm: Professional warm down and stretches.
4:30 pm: Lunch and Refreshments.
5:00 pm: Depart for Nairobi.
7:00 pm: Drop off.
Accomodation
- Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort
- Naivasha west beach camp
- Lake Naivasha Resort
- Panorama Park
- Lake Elementaita Mountain Lodge
Special Campsites
- Nyati Campsite
- Green Campsite
What to Wear
- Quick dry shirt & pants
- Fleece jacket
- Sun hat or cap
- Comfortable hiking shoes
What to Carry
- Identification card
- Extra drinking water in a reusable water bottle
- Rain jacket
- Trekking pole
- Camera & Binoculars (optional)
- Sunscreen
How to get Ready for the Hike
- Increase your hydration at least two days prior to the hike.
- Purpose to get enough sleep before the hike to help relax the body.
- Equip yourself with proper hiking gear.
- Have a generous breakfast 3 hours before the hike for the body to digest and spare the energy for hiking.
- Set up your mind for conquering the mountains the main is to make sure you are moving forward.
- Pack enough drinking water and snacks.
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