Nyandarua and Nyeri counties
Aberdare National Park
Misty forests, waterfalls and the famous tree lodges
Nakuru County, Great Rift Valley
Mount Longonot
A day hike around a dormant volcano crater
- Country
- Kenya
- Region
- Nakuru County, Great Rift Valley
- Type
- Mountain Trek
- Best months to visit
- Jun–Oct, Dec–Feb
Overview
Mount Longonot is a dormant stratovolcano rising above the floor of the Rift Valley, south-east of Lake Naivasha. A steep path climbs to the crater rim, and a loop around the rim leads to the summit at 2,776 m.
It is one of the most rewarding day hikes near Nairobi and pairs perfectly with a stay at Lake Naivasha.
- Crater rim walk
- Rift Valley panoramas
- Easy day trip from Nairobi
- Combine with Lake Naivasha
What you'll see
A forested crater with steam vents, sweeping views over Lake Naivasha and the Rift Valley, and often zebra and giraffe on the lower slopes.
Wildlife you may see
- Plains zebra
- Masai giraffe
- Cape buffalo (Big Five)
Things to do
- 01
Crater rim hike
About 4–6 hours return including the full rim loop.
- 02
Short summit option
Climb to the rim and back in about 3 hours.
Best time
- Jan: Great time
- Feb: Great time
- Mar: Possible
- Apr: Possible
- May: Possible
- Jun: Great time
- Jul: Great time
- Aug: Great time
- Sep: Great time
- Oct: Great time
- Nov: Possible
- Dec: Great time
Best in the dry months; start early to avoid the midday heat.
Getting there
About 1.5 hours by road from Nairobi.
Where to stay
Luxury
Lakeside lodges and villas at Lake Naivasha.
We'll suggest camps and lodges that fit your dates and budget.
Comfort
Lake Naivasha hotels, 30–45 minutes away.
We'll suggest camps and lodges that fit your dates and budget.
Budget
Campsite at the park gate or simple stays in Naivasha.
We'll suggest camps and lodges that fit your dates and budget.
