Mount Longonot National Park is conveniently located in Kenya’s scenic Rift Valley, just 75 km northwest of Nairobi. This guide covers all the transportation options—by car, public transport, or organized tour—to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to one of Kenya’s most spectacular volcanic hikes.
🚗 Option 1: Self-Drive (Most Popular)
Distance: Approximately 75 km
Driving Time: ~1½ hours from Nairobi
Route Guide:
- From Nairobi City Center:
- Take Waiyaki Way (A104) heading west towards Naivasha.
- Pass through Limuru and descend into the Great Rift Valley via the Mai Mahiu road.
- Stop at the Great Rift Valley Viewpoint for breathtaking photos (~1 hr from Nairobi).
- Continue past Mai Mahiu town for another ~20 minutes.
- Turn left at the clearly marked sign for Mount Longonot National Park gate.
- Road Condition:
- Excellent tarmac highway (A104) from Nairobi to park entrance turnoff.
- Short, well-maintained gravel/dirt road (~3 km) from highway to park gate; accessible by standard vehicles.
🛣️ Pro Tip:
Leave Nairobi early (around 6–7 AM) to avoid heavy truck traffic and enjoy cooler temperatures for your hike.
🚌 Option 2: Public Transport (Budget-Friendly)
Step-by-Step:
- From Nairobi (CBD):
- Take a matatu (public minibus) or shuttle from Nairobi CBD (River Road area) or from Railways Station going towards Naivasha via Mai Mahiu.
- Fare: Approximately KES 300–500 per person.
- Travel time: ~1½–2 hours.
- Alight at the Mount Longonot Junction (mention clearly to the conductor).
- Landmark: Large signage and junction clearly marked.
- From junction, park gate is about 3 km along the dirt road.
- At junction:
- Hire local boda boda (motorbike taxi) for ~KES 100–200.
- Or walk (~30–40 minutes easy walk).
- Take a matatu (public minibus) or shuttle from Nairobi CBD (River Road area) or from Railways Station going towards Naivasha via Mai Mahiu.
🚦 Pro Tip:
Confirm fare clearly before boarding and alighting points with the conductor. Matatus departing before 8 AM from Nairobi are most reliable.
🚐 Option 3: Organized Tours & Private Transfers
- Ideal for groups, first-time visitors, or comfort seekers.
- Numerous Nairobi-based tour companies offer:
- Transport (minivan or Land Cruiser).
- Professional driver/guides.
- Park entry fees included.
- Options to combine Longonot with Hell’s Gate or Lake Naivasha.
Average Tour Costs:
| Tour Type | Average Cost (per person) |
|---|---|
| Day tour (group/shared) | KES 3,500–6,000 (~USD 25–45) |
| Private tour | KES 10,000–20,000 (~USD 70–140) |
📌 Recommended Tour Providers:
- Bonfire Adventures
- Expeditions Maasai Safaris
- Perfect Wilderness Tours
📆 Pro Tip:
Booking online or through your hotel/lodge in Nairobi simplifies arrangements and ensures reliable, professional service.
🚖 Option 4: Taxi & Ride-Hailing Services
- Services such as Uber, Bolt, and Little Cabs available from Nairobi.
- Cost estimate: KES 4,500–6,500 (~USD 30–45) one-way, depending on availability and demand.
- Travel time: ~1½ hours each way.
📱 Pro Tip:
Pre-book your return trip or negotiate a full-day rate with the driver to avoid being stranded at the park, as ride-hailing services might not be easily accessible for return journeys.
🛑 Essential Stops Along the Route
Enhance your drive by stopping at:
- Great Rift Valley Viewpoint: Iconic panoramic views, curio shopping.
- Mai Mahiu Italian Church: Historic landmark built by Italian POWs during WWII.
- Mai Mahiu Town: Fuel, restaurants, supermarkets for snacks & water.
🛎️ Where to Stay Nearby
If planning an early hike or staying late, consider accommodation in nearby Naivasha (~20 min from Longonot):
- Budget: Camp Carnelley’s, Fisherman’s Camp
- Mid-Range: Lake Naivasha Resort, Naivasha Kongoni Lodge
- Luxury: Enashipai Resort & Spa, Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge
✅ Travel & Preparation Checklist
- Fuel your car fully in Nairobi or Mai Mahiu.
- Carry cash for park fees (KES/USD), snacks, and any emergencies.
- Pack water, sunscreen, hats, hiking shoes, and layered clothing (weather changes quickly at altitude).
- Charge phones fully—signal along the highway is good, limited in the park.
📌 FAQs & Important Tips
- Park Gate Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
- Last Entry: Typically 4:00 PM.
- Safety: Roads and the park are safe during daylight hours; avoid driving after dark due to limited street lighting.
🏞️ Why Visit Mount Longonot?
Located conveniently from Nairobi, Mount Longonot offers a spectacular hike, stunning Rift Valley views, wildlife sightings, and a unique volcanic experience accessible to all travelers—making it one of Kenya’s best-loved outdoor adventures.