Set in the heart of Kenya’s Rift Valley, Mount Longonot is more than just a hike — it’s a full-on adventure. With steep crater walls, dramatic ridgelines, and vast open views, this dormant volcano offers a wide range of outdoor activities for different fitness levels and age groups.
Whether you’re up for a pre-dawn hike, a trail run, or a laid-back family trek, Mount Longonot serves it all — with scenery to match the challenge.
🌋 Hiking the Crater of Mount Longonot
This is the signature experience at Mount Longonot — and the one most people come for.
The Crater Trail Breakdown:
- Crater Rim Loop: ~7.2 km
- Gate to Rim Ascent: ~3.1 km
- Total Distance: ~10.3 km round trip
- Time Required: 4–5.5 hours
Once you reach the rim, the full loop trail takes you around a massive, forested caldera, with Lake Naivasha, Aberdares, and Hell’s Gate visible from all sides. It’s dusty, rugged, and absolutely epic.
🧭 The trail offers no shade or water. Bring plenty of both!
🧗 Reaching the Summit of Mount Longonot
While the entire crater rim is hikeable, the true summit — the highest point of the volcano — lies on the far eastern side of the loop.
Why You Should Do It:
- At 2,776 meters above sea level, it’s one of the best views in Kenya
- You’ll feel a true sense of achievement standing above a collapsed volcano
- From here, you can see Suswa, Naivasha, and the floor of the Rift Valley
It’s a steep climb with loose volcanic ash and exposed ridgelines, so expect some hard breathing and sore legs — but it’s absolutely worth it.
📸 The summit is the best photo spot for sunrise and sunset hikers.
🥾 Is Mount Longonot Beginner Friendly?
Yes — if you prepare smartly. Mount Longonot is a doable hike for beginners, as long as you:
Tips for First-Timers:
- Start early in the morning when it’s cooler
- Wear proper hiking shoes with grip
- Stop at the rim instead of doing the full loop, if you’re unsure
- Bring 2L of water, snacks, and sun protection
- Pace yourself — there’s no rush!
While it’s steep, the trail is clear and non-technical. Many first-time hikers successfully reach the rim and back in under 4 hours.
🎯 It’s an ideal first volcano hike before tackling harder climbs like Mt. Kenya or Elgon.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Adventures at Mount Longonot
Mount Longonot is a great day trip for families — especially with kids aged 7 and above who enjoy outdoor activity.
What Makes It Kid-Friendly:
- The forest trail from gate to rim is short and engaging
- Wildlife spotting along the way (zebras, antelopes, birds of prey)
- Educational signs and rangers at the park gate
- Nearby attractions like Lake Naivasha for a relaxing afternoon after the hike
Family Tips:
- Bring extra snacks, water, and a small first aid kit
- Allow time for frequent rests
- Turn back at the rim if the loop looks too long for younger kids
🧺 Many families pack a picnic and enjoy it after the hike in the shaded area near the park gate.
🌅 Hiking Mount Longonot at Sunrise
For a more spiritual, peaceful, and stunning experience, a sunrise hike is unbeatable.
Why Sunrise?
- Beat the heat
- Hike in golden morning light
- Watch the sun rise over the Rift Valley and illuminate the crater
- Enjoy the silence and solitude before the crowds arrive
How to Do It:
- Arrive by 6:00 AM — or camp nearby the night before
- Bring a headlamp or flashlight for the early part of the trail
- Pack a hot drink and breakfast to enjoy at the top
🌄 There’s something unforgettable about watching the world wake up from the top of a volcano.
🏃 Trail Running Mount Longonot: What You Should Know
Calling all runners! Mount Longonot offers one of Kenya’s most thrilling trail runs — a high-altitude loop with serious elevation gain and killer views.
Trail Running Stats:
- Distance: 10.3 km
- Elevation Gain: ~630m
- Terrain: Loose rock, dusty trail, steep inclines
- Time: Elite runners complete it in ~1.5 hours
It’s not for beginners, but if you’ve trained on hills and love technical trails, this run is pure adrenaline. Great for preparing for trail races or ultra runs.
🏅 Some runners use Longonot as an altitude training route — it’s over 2,500 meters high!
🧭 Final Thoughts: Choose Your Adventure
Mount Longonot is a rare gem — accessible, wild, and unforgettable. Whether you want to hike your first crater, summit at sunrise, explore with your family, or push your limits with a trail run, it offers something for every adventurer.
So lace up your boots, check your water bottles, and step into the volcanic wilderness just 90 minutes from Nairobi.