MT LONGONOT HIKE

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. Wildlife encounters include buffaloes, elands, lions, leopards, zebras, giraffes, and Grant's gazelles, while birds of prey like Verreaux's Eagles and Lammergeiers soar overhead catching thermals. 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.