Activities To Do In Mount Longonot National Park
Activities To Do In Mount Longonot National Park
The national park is called Mount Longonot National Park and is found in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya, approximately 60 kilometres northwest of Nairobi. With its rugged volcanic terrain, panoramic views of the craters, and the fact that it borders Lake Naivasha, the park has a combination of difficult hikes, wildlife sightings and stunning photographic experiences. Be it a day trip out of Nairobi or part of a longer safari to Kenya, the park is a must-visit destination for both locals and international tourists.
Hike to Crater Rim
The major tourist attraction in Mount Longonot National Park is hiking to the top of the dormant volcano. The hike is about 3.1 kilometres to the rim of the crater, which is approximately 2,776 meters above sea level; however, the real adventure lies in the decision to venture around the whole crater. A complete circuit of the rim is approximately 7.2 kilometres with wide panoramas of the Rift valley, Lake Naivasha and distant mountains such as Suswa and the Aberdares. It is a 4 to 5 hour walk (depending on fitness) up steep volcanic soil that is loose, making the walk both challenging and rewarding.
Trekking Crater Circuit
Seasoned hikers and those who want to have a more authentic experience would be advised to do the whole crater circuit. As you drive along, you will see jagged ridges, green plants within the crater, and some wild animals like buffalo, zebra, giraffes, and antelopes grazing on the slopes. The mountain air and the feeling of being alone contribute to the adventure, and it is one of the most scenic hiking trails in Kenya.
Wildlife Viewing and Birdwatching
Although Mount Longonot is mostly associated with hiking trails, it is also home to different types of wildlife. The acacia woodlands and the open grasslands in the park have giraffes, elands, grant gazelles, and warthogs. Visiting these animals early in the morning or late afternoon raises your chances of seeing these animals. Birdwatchers will have a sight of raptors such as Verreaux eagle, augur buzzards and other species that fly over the cliffs of the crater.
Photo and scenery viewing
The panoramic sceneries of the top and the rim are the most photogenic sceneries in Kenya. The play of the volcanic crater, the deep greens of the floor of the Rift Valley and the blue shimmer of Lake Naivasha create beautiful compositions. Sunrise and sunset hikes reward photographers with golden light and fewer crowds and drone photography (with prior park permission) allows photographers to capture the unique shape of the crater in aerial views.
Picnic and Sleeping
The park has several picnic areas where people can rest after a tiring hike. The spots are cool, have seats, and peaceful views of the wilderness around. It is necessary to take a packed lunch and lots of water since there are no restaurants in the park. Most of the travellers on a Kenya safari opt to have a boat ride or a meal at Lake Naivasha, which is close to the hike after the trek.
Overnight stays and Camping
Camping is permitted in designated zones in the Mount Longonot National Park by those who may wish to have a longer stay. Overnight accommodation provides the opportunity to see the star-filled skies, the cooler evenings and the dawn movement of wildlife. Comfortable visitors will be able to find a range of lodges, tented camps and budget guesthouses in the nearby town of Naivasha.
Mountain Biking and Adventure Sports
In as much as the park is associated with hiking, the Rift Valley region surrounding the park also has mountain biking trails that anyone who wants to experience a different adventure can explore. Tour companies have developed guided bicycle tours around the base of the volcano, where exercise and sightseeing are merged. Mount Longonot is also a good stopover for adrenaline junkies, as there are rock climbing and zip-lining in nearby adventure parks.
When to Go
Mount Longonot National Park is accessible all year, but the most comfortable months to hike are the driest months, which are January to March and June to October. The rainy months April, May and November can be slippery on the trail, and visibility could be lowered by mist. Take sunscreen, clothes in layers, and hiking boots so you can enjoy it.
Tourist Information Mount Longonot National Park
- Be there early, before the heat and the crowds in the middle of the day.
- Take at least 3 litres of water per hiker.
- Dress in breathable and protective clothing that would shield against the sun and wind.
- Employ a local guide to tell you about the geology, flora, and fauna of the park.
Combine your trip with Lake Naivasha, Hell Gate National Park or Crescent Island to have a complete Rift Valley experience.
Mount Longonot National Park is not just a hiking point, but an entrance to the natural beauty, biodiversity and volcanic history of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley. Be it the crater rim conquest, the landscape sweeping photographs or the serene picnic areas, the park will leave a memorable outdoor adventure.
