Cushy Adventures

About This Event

Ascend a dormant volcano rising majestically from the Great Rift Valley floor, trek to the crater rim, and circle the dramatic crater for 360-degree panoramic views of Lake Naivasha, Kijabe Hill, and the vast Rift Valley landscape.

Mount Longonot is a dormant stratovolcano whose Maasai name, Oloonong'ot, translates to "mountains of many spurs" or "steep ridges," perfectly capturing its rugged character. Last erupting in the 1860s, this geological wonder features a lush forest thriving within its crater floor, complete with steam vents along the walls. The adventure begins at the Rift Valley floor (2,150m elevation), with a steep 3.1km ascent through heavily eroded terrain to reach the crater rim. Along this challenging climb, hikers are rewarded with stunning vistas of Kijabe Hill, Eburu Forest, and glimpses of Lake Naivasha shimmering in the distance. After a well-deserved break at the rim, the journey continues with a spectacular 7.2km circuit around the jagged crater edge. This loop offers ever-changing perspectives: Lake Naivasha and flower farms to the north, Hell's Gate National Park sprawling to the west, Kijabe Hill rising to the east, and Mount Suswa visible to the south. The peak itself sits at 2,776m above sea level, providing a complete 360-degree spectacle of the Great Rift Valley's majesty. This 13.5km journey invites both novice hikers and nature enthusiasts to experience Kenya's volcanic heritage from every breathtaking angle, with the entire circuit typically completed in 6-8 hours including rest stops and photo opportunities.

Distance

13km

Duration

6-8hrs

Max Elevation

2776m

Elevation Gain

626m

Event Itinerary

 5:15 a.m Assemble and board the bus at CBD opposite international House
 5:30 a.m Departure CBD opposite international House
 8:30 a.m Arrival at Starting point
 08:30 a.m Hike Starts
 1:30 p.m. Turn back time
 04:00 p.m Departure for Nairobi

What's Included

• Cozy transport to and from.
• Park entrance and guide fee.
• Access to professional workout/aerobics instructor
• Professional Photographer
• Bottled drinking water
• Community fee
• Achievement Badge

What to Wear

 Light, breathable hiking top (quick-dry for comfort)
 Light jacket or windbreaker for cool mornings in Tigoni
 Comfortable hiking pants or leggings (avoid jeans)
 Quality hiking socks to prevent blisters
 Hiking shoes or trail runners with good grip (essential for muddy waterfall trails)
 Cap or hat for sun protection
 Sunglasses (optional)
 Sunscreen to protect from high-altitude sun
 Light rain jacket or poncho (January weather can be unpredictable)
 Small daypack for carrying essentials
 Insect repellent for forest and waterfall sections

What to Carry

• National ID Card/Valid Passport
• Comfortable hiking shoes/Sports shoes. Sunglasses/sunscreen
• Snacks
• Re-usable water bottles
• Personal Medication (If applicable)
• Rain gears
• Changing Clothes after the hike

Preparation Guidelines

• Get moving with active cardio exercises like aerobics, walking, running, cycling, and swimming during the week leading up to the event.
• Designate the day before the hike for some well-deserved rest—give your body a break from intense exercises.
• Amp up your hydration game at least two days before hitting the trail.
• Make sure to prioritize a good night's sleep before the hike.
• Boost your energy reserves by upping your carbohydrate intake two days prior. If you're into intermittent fasting or on a diet, take a one-day break around the hike.
• Trim those toenails—your feet will thank you later!
• Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at least three hours before the event. This ensures your body has time to digest, providing the energy you need without making your stomach feel too full.
• Take a pre-hike bathroom break at home to minimize pit stops during your journey.
• Prepare your mindset for self-conquest. Remember, hiking is 90% mental, 10% physical prep. Once you conquer your mind, the rest is a breeze. You've got this!

Trail Information

Steep, heavily eroded sections; dirt path (can be muddy in rain)

Book This Event

Pricing Options

Category	By Bus	Self Drive
Kenyan & EAC Citizen	KES 3,500	KES 2,500
Foreign Kenyan Residents	KES 3,800	KES 2,800
Non-Resident Foreigners	$70.00	$63.00

Secure payment - Free cancellation - 24/7 support

Location & Meeting Point

Mount Longonot National Park

Mount Longonot National Park, Nairobi-Nakuru Highway (A104), Longonot, Kenya, Longonot (near Naivasha), Kenya

Meeting Point

Nairobi CBD, International House

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Event Organizers