Mount Longonot Hiking Adventure: Discover the Spectacular Great Rift Valley
Mount Longonot is a dormant stratovolcano located in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, about 90 km from Nairobi. It rises to approximately 2,776 m above sea level and is famous for its steep hiking trail, crater rim walk, and panoramic views of the Rift Valley and Lake Naivasha
Mount Longonot Hiking Programme (Day Trip from Nairobi
05:30 AM – Departure from Nairobi
Meet at agreed pickup point.
Drive via the Nairobi–Naivasha highway with a brief stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint if desired.
07:00 AM – Arrive at the entrance of Mount Longonot National Park
Registration and payment of park fees.
Briefing, stretching, and final gear check.
07:30 AM – 09:00 AM – Hike to the Crater Rim
Distance: approximately 3 km.
Steep ascent with an elevation gain of about 630 m.
Enjoy panoramic views of the Rift Valley and surrounding landscape.
09:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Crater Rim Circuit (Optional but Recommended)
Full rim loop: approximately 7.2 km.
Spectacular views into the forested crater and toward Lake Naivasha.
Several photo and hydration breaks.
12:00 PM – 01:00 PM – Descend to the Park Gate
Return via the main trail.
Total hiking time for the complete experience is typically 4–6 hours depending on pace.
01:00 PM – 02:00 PM – Lunch
Optional stop in Naivasha for lunch and refreshments.
02:00 PM – 04:00 PM – Optional Activities
Choose one:
Boat ride on Lake Naivasha
Visit Hell’s Gate National Park
Relaxation and sightseeing around Naivasha.
04:00 PM – 06:00 PM – Return to Nairobi
What to Carry
2–3 litres of water
Hiking shoes or trail shoes
Hat and sunglasses
Sunscreen
Energy snacks
Light rain jacket
Camera/phone and power bank
Small backpack
Hiking challeges
Difficulty
Moderate to challenging.
Suitable for beginners with reasonable fitness, though the initial climb is steep and exposed.
Best Time to Hike
Start between 7:00–9:00 AM for cooler temperatures and clearer views.
Dry months (January–February and June–September) generally offer the best conditions.
Hear from our delighted travelers and their experiences.
Mount Longonot is a dormant stratovolcano located in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, approximately 90 km northwest of Nairobi and near Naivasha. The name “Longonot” comes from the Maasai word Oloonong’ot, meaning “mountains of many spurs” or “steep ridges.”
Rising to an elevation of about 2,776 meters (9,108 feet) above sea level, the mountain is famous for its dramatic volcanic crater, steep hiking trails, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley. The crater is covered by dense forest and is surrounded by a scenic rim trail that attracts hikers, nature lovers, and photographers from around the world.
Located within Mount Longonot National Park, the mountain offers a challenging but rewarding hike. Adventurers can trek to the crater rim and, for a more demanding experience, complete the full circuit around the crater. Along the way, visitors may spot wildlife such as zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, antelopes, and various bird species.
Highlights
Elevation: 2,776 m (9,108 ft)
Distance from Nairobi: Approximately 90 km
Main attraction: Volcanic crater and crater rim hike
Hiking duration: 4–6 hours (depending on pace and route)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Best views: Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha, and surrounding landscapes
Why Visit Mount Longonot?
Experience one of Kenya’s most iconic hiking destinations.
Enjoy spectacular views of the Great Rift Valley.
Challenge yourself with a rewarding volcanic summit trek.
Explore a unique ecosystem within a volcanic crater.
Capture stunning photography and nature scenes.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or an adventurous beginner, Mount Longonot offers an unforgettable outdoor experience and some of the most impressive scenery in Kenya.
“The Mount Longonot hike exceeded my expectations. The trail was well worth the effort, and the panoramic views of Lake Naivasha and the crater were spectacular. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an exciting outdoor adventure in Kenya.”
“Hiking Mount Longonot was one of the most rewarding adventures I’ve ever experienced. The climb was challenging, but the breathtaking views from the crater rim made every step worth it. Seeing the Great Rift Valley from above was simply unforgettable.”
“Mount Longonot offered the perfect mix of challenge and beauty. The hike pushed me out of my comfort zone, but reaching the top and taking in the magnificent views was unforgettable. I can’t wait to do it again!”
“From the moment we started the ascent to completing the crater rim circuit, the experience was amazing. The scenery was stunning, the air was fresh, and the sense of accomplishment at the summit was incredible.”
Join Us for an Adventure hiking!
Embark on an unforgettable guided mount Longonot trekking