Mount Longonot is one of Kenya’s most rewarding hikes — but don’t let its proximity to Nairobi fool you. It’s a steep, dusty, high-altitude climb that demands moderate fitness, smart preparation, and the right gear. This guide breaks down what you need to know to hike Longonot safely and successfully, whether you’re a beginner, weekend warrior, or senior hiker.
🏃 How Fit Do You Need to Be to Hike Mount Longonot?
Mount Longonot isn’t a walk in the park — but it’s also not Everest. Most people with moderate fitness can complete the hike to the crater rim, and many go on to hike the entire 7.2 km crater loop.
What to Expect:
- Steep ascent: You’ll climb ~630m of elevation in about 3 km
- Volcanic terrain: Loose ash, gravel, and dusty slopes
- Altitude: The summit is 2,776m above sea level — you’ll feel it
- No shade: Heat and sun exposure can make it feel harder
🧭 If you can comfortably walk 10 km and handle stair climbs or hilly walks, you can hike Longonot with proper pacing and breaks.
💪 Training Tips for Conquering Mount Longonot
If you’re planning your hike in advance, a little targeted fitness prep can make all the difference.
2–4 Weeks Before:
- Cardio Focus
- Brisk walking, jogging, or cycling (30–60 mins, 3–4x/week)
- Try hill repeats or stair climbing for elevation simulation
- Leg Strength
- Lunges, squats, calf raises
- Add weight for extra challenge
- Core Stability
- Planks, side planks, Russian twists
- Helps with balance on uneven terrain
- Hike Practice
- Do at least one real hike or long walk with elevation gain
- Break in your shoes and test your gear
🧠 Also practice hydration — drink 2–3L per day and hydrate well before your hike.
🎒 Must-Have Gear for Mount Longonot Hikes
You don’t need expensive equipment, but a few essentials can make your hike safer, easier, and more enjoyable.
Daypack Essentials:
- ✅ 2–3L of water (hydration bladder or bottles)
- ✅ Trail snacks (nuts, granola bars, fruit)
- ✅ Sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses
- ✅ Light rain jacket or windbreaker
- ✅ First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic, pain relief)
- ✅ Power bank or fully charged phone
- ✅ Trash bag — pack it in, pack it out
Optional:
- 🧢 Hat or buff for sun protection
- 🥾 Trekking poles (especially helpful on descents)
- 🧤 Light gloves for cooler mornings
- 📸 Camera or binoculars (views + birds)
🧳 Travel light but smart — you’ll appreciate every gram you leave behind on that final stretch to the summit.
👕 What to Wear on a Mount Longonot Hike
Dressing smartly is key — Longonot can be cold at the base, hot at the top, and windy on the rim.
Recommended Outfit:
- Moisture-wicking T-shirt or base layer
- Lightweight hiking pants or shorts (avoid jeans!)
- Breathable fleece or long-sleeve layer for morning
- Sunhat or cap + sunglasses
- Light, packable rain jacket
- Durable hiking shoes or boots with grip
Footwear Tip:
- Trail running shoes or mid-cut hiking boots work best
- Make sure they’re broken in — blisters will ruin your hike
🧥 Layers are your best friend — you’ll likely shed and re-add clothing as you climb.
⛰️ Is Mount Longonot a Difficult Hike?
It depends on your fitness level and how far you go.
Difficulty Breakdown:
| Segment | Difficulty | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Gate to Rim (~3.1 km) | Moderate | Steep climb with some loose footing |
| Crater Rim Loop (~7.2 km) | Challenging | Rolling terrain with steep sections and full sun |
| Descent | Moderate | Easier but can be slippery and tiring |
Factors That Make It Tougher:
- Afternoon heat
- Poor footwear
- Low fitness or dehydration
- No pacing (too fast at the start)
🎯 Overall: it’s a doable hike with effort — not technical, but physically demanding.
👵 Can Older Hikers Climb Mount Longonot?
Absolutely — many hikers over 60 have completed the hike with adjustments.
Tips for Older or Slower Hikers:
- Take your time — there’s no rush to the rim
- Bring walking poles to assist on climbs and descents
- Hike in the cooler morning hours
- Stay hydrated and snack regularly
- Hike with a partner or guide
- Consider hiking to the rim only, then returning (still spectacular!)
👣 If you walk regularly and have no major joint or heart issues, this hike is achievable with good pacing.
✅ Final Fitness & Prep Tips
- 🧘 Stretch before and after — your legs will thank you
- 📱 Download an offline map if hiking without a guide
- 🕓 Start early (7–9 AM) to avoid midday heat
- 💬 Let someone know your route and ETA — safety first
- 🧴 Don’t forget sunscreen — the sun at 2,000+ meters is strong
🏁 Ready to Conquer the Crater?
Mount Longonot is one of Kenya’s most epic half-day adventures — and with the right prep, it’s entirely within your reach. Whether you’re pacing yourself to the rim, pushing to the summit, or jogging the crater loop, you’ll come back tired, dusty, and absolutely satisfied.
Your volcano is waiting — train smart, gear up, and go get it.