Mount Longonot National Park

Welcome to Mount Longonot, one of Kenya’s most iconic hiking destinations and the ideal getaway from Nairobi’s bustling city life. This guide, brought to you by MtLongonot.org—a community of passionate Nairobi-based hiking enthusiasts—is designed to inspire your next outdoor adventure and help you explore this remarkable volcanic gem situated in the heart of the Great Rift Valley.

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📚 About Mount Longonot: Background & History

Mount Longonot is a dormant stratovolcano that towers prominently within Kenya’s stunning Great Rift Valley. The name Longonot is derived from the Maasai word Oloonong’ot, meaning “Mountain of Many Spurs” or “Steep Ridges,” reflecting its rugged crater rim.

Formed approximately 400,000 years ago, Longonot’s striking caldera and crater walls were shaped by explosive volcanic activity. It last erupted in the 1860s, leaving behind a picturesque crater, lush with dense forests—a haven for wildlife and bird species.

In 1968, Mount Longonot was officially declared a National Park by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), safeguarding its biodiversity and unique volcanic landscapes.

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📍 Location & How to Get There

Mount Longonot National Park is conveniently located approximately 75 km northwest of Nairobi, making it accessible for day trips or weekend escapes.

🚗 Self-Drive from Nairobi:

• Take Nairobi–Naivasha Highway (A104) toward Mai Mahiu (~1 hour).
• From Mai Mahiu town, continue another 20 minutes on the main road (B3).
• Park entrance clearly marked—turn left onto the dirt road (~3 km to gate).

🚍 Public Transport:

• Board matatus/shuttles from Nairobi CBD (River Road/Railway Station) to Naivasha via Mai Mahiu.
• Alight at Longonot Junction; hire a motorbike taxi (KES 100–200) to the gate.

🚐 Organized Tours:

• Many Nairobi-based operators offer day and weekend packages including transport, park entry, and guided hikes.

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🌟 Why Visit Mount Longonot?

Mount Longonot’s proximity to Nairobi, stunning panoramic views, diverse wildlife, and moderately challenging hiking trails make it an ideal weekend getaway for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and adventure seekers.

• Scenic beauty: Unrivaled views of the Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha, and surrounding peaks.
• Wildlife encounters: Sightings of zebras, giraffes, buffalo, baboons, and diverse birdlife.
• Accessibility: Perfect for day-trippers from Nairobi and a gateway to the Rift Valley tourist circuit, including nearby attractions like Hell’s Gate and Lake Naivasha.

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🥾 Hiking Mount Longonot: Trails & Duration

1. Base to Crater Rim (Summit)

• Distance: 3.1 km uphill hike.
• Time required: Approximately 1–2 hours, depending on fitness level.
• Elevation gain: Approximately 630 m.

2. Crater Rim Loop

• Distance: 7.2 km full loop trail around the crater rim.
• Total hiking time: Approximately 4–5 hours, including breaks.
• Highest Point (summit): 2,776 meters (9,108 feet) above sea level.

Difficulty Level:

• Classified as moderate, suitable for hikers with average fitness. Expect steep sections, especially at the start.

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💵 Park Entry Fees (2025 Rates)

Visitor Type	Adults	Children (3–17 yrs)
Kenyan Citizens	KES 250	KES 200
Kenyan Residents	KES 300	KES 250
Non-Residents	USD 20	USD 10

Vehicle Fees:

• Cars: KES 300
• Minibus/Matatu: KES 500
• Larger buses: KES 1,000

🎒 Preparing for Your Mount Longonot Hike

Essential Items Checklist:

• ✅ Plenty of drinking water
• ✅ Snacks and energy bars
• ✅ Sunscreen and hat
• ✅ Camera/binoculars for wildlife viewing
• ✅ Rain jacket (especially during wet seasons)
• ✅ First-aid kit (basic supplies)
• ✅ Hiking boots with good traction
• ✅ Comfortable, breathable clothing (layering recommended)

Physical Preparation:

• Regular cardio workouts or walks help prepare your body for the ascent.
• Stretching exercises can reduce injury risk and muscle soreness.

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⏰ Best Time to Visit & Climate

Mount Longonot is accessible year-round, but optimal hiking conditions occur during the dry seasons:

• Best Months: January–March and June–October
• Rainy Seasons: April–May (long rains), November–early December (short rains), when trails may become slippery.

Average daytime temperatures range between 18°C to 26°C, while early morning and late evenings can be cooler (below 10°C). Dress in layers for comfort.

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🚗 Parking, Facilities & Services

• Parking: Secure parking available at the park entrance.
• Washroom Facilities: Basic pit latrines at entrance gate only (no running water facilities on trails).
• Food & Drinks: No food vendors inside park boundaries—pack meals/snacks or purchase from Mai Mahiu/Naivasha.
• Camping: Basic camping permitted near gate—KES 500 per person/night.

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🦅 Wildlife at Mount Longonot

Keep an eye out for:

• Mammals: Zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, warthogs, baboons, antelopes.
• Birds: Augur buzzards, eagles, sunbirds, starlings, barbets.

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🚧 Safety & Park Rules

• Stick to marked trails to avoid getting lost or disturbing wildlife.
• Keep a safe distance from wild animals, especially buffaloes.
• Respect park rules: no littering, no open fires (outside designated areas), and no pets allowed.
• Emergencies: Seek assistance from park rangers at entrance gate.

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🥾 About MtLongonot.org & Our Mission

MtLongonot.org was founded by passionate Nairobi-based hikers dedicated to promoting responsible outdoor adventures and sharing Mount Longonot’s beauty. Our mission is simple:

• Encourage more Nairobi residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors and appreciate Kenya’s natural treasures.
• Provide reliable, detailed, and practical information to ensure safe, enjoyable hiking experiences.
• Foster awareness and support for local conservation efforts and community engagement.

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🌄 Plan Your Adventure Today!

Whether you’re a Nairobi local or a Rift Valley explorer, Mount Longonot promises unmatched scenery, thrilling trails, abundant wildlife sightings, and a memorable experience for hikers of all levels.

Explore Mount Longonot—Nairobi’s perfect outdoor getaway—and join a growing community passionate about nature, adventure, and conservation.

Ready to hike Mount Longonot? Plan your adventure today at MtLongonot.org!

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