DAY TOUR TO MOUNT LONGONOT NATIONAL PARK- WITH PARK FEES

Planning a day trip in Kenya that combines active exploration, breathtaking scenery, and wildlife encounters? The Day Tour to Mount Longonot National Park offers just that—an engaging way to experience some of Kenya’s most iconic landscapes without spending a fortune. This tour promises a mix of scenic vistas, adventure, and a taste of local natural beauty, all wrapped into a manageable day.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love the accessible yet rewarding hike that takes less than 4 hours round trip, making it suitable even for those with moderate fitness levels. Second, the boat ride on Lake Naivasha offers prime birdwatching and interesting hippo sightings, perfect for nature lovers. Lastly, the scenic views of the Rift Valley from the viewpoint are genuinely stunning and worth the early start.

A potential consideration? The guide’s knowledge about wildlife may not be comprehensive, as some reviews noted a lack of detailed commentary about the animals you encounter. But, if you’re mainly after the landscapes, physical activity, and wildlife viewing, this shouldn’t be a dealbreaker.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, want to see Kenya’s volcanic landscapes, and prefer a well-rounded day that combines adventure with scenic beauty. It’s suitable for those with medium fitness levels and an interest in nature, photography, or simply escaping the city for a day.

Key Points

• Accessible hiking: The Mount Longonot climb takes under 4 hours, suitable for most with moderate fitness.
• Wildlife and birdwatching: Lake Naivasha boat ride offers opportunities to see hippos and diverse bird species.
• Spectacular views: The Rift Valley viewpoint provides panoramic scenery of volcanic formations and lakes.
• All-inclusive value: Park entrance fees, transport, guides, and bottled water are included in the $100 price.
• Authentic experience: The trip combines active pursuits with relaxed moments by the lakeside.
• Limited wildlife commentary: Guides may lack detailed animal knowledge, but the scenery compensates.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Early Morning Departure and Scenic Drive Through Kikuyu Highlands

The day begins with a 6 am pickup from Nairobi, which is perfect if you’re eager to maximize the daylight hours. The drive takes you through Kenya’s picturesque Kikuyu highlands, known for their lush greenery and cool climate. This part of the journey is a treat in itself, setting the tone for the day ahead.

The Great Rift Valley Viewpoint

A scheduled stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint is a highlight. Here, you get a panoramic look at the Rift Valley, a geological marvel that stretches from the Red Sea through Ethiopia into Kenya and Tanzania. The volcanic activity that formed this vast rift is still visible in the nearby Mt Suswa and Mt Longonot, making it a geologist’s dream.

From this vantage point, you’ll appreciate the volcanic landscape, the lakes, and the expansive vistas. The reviews mention that the viewpoint is a great spot to take photos, especially since the landscape is so strikingly layered and full of volcanic features.

Mount Longonot Hike: An Adventurous Climb

The main event is the hiking expedition up Mount Longonot. The mountain’s trail is rated as medium in difficulty, and it’s the perfect challenge for most travelers. The ascent takes about an hour, during which you’ll navigate gullies and rocky paths—think of it as a mini mountain climb with rewarding views at the top.

You’ll reach the crater rim, where you’re greeted with a breathtaking view of the volcanic caldera below. If you’re feeling energetic, a circuit around the rim is possible and adds over two hours of scenic walking. The trail offers plenty of photo opportunities—birds, unique volcanic formations, and panoramic views across the crater.

According to reviews, some travelers found the guide less talkative or lacking detailed animal info, but everyone appreciated the stunning landscape. The descent is quick, often less than an hour, allowing you to relax afterward.

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Lakeside Lunch and Lake Naivasha Boat Ride

Back at the park’s base, a lakeside lunch at the Marina Camp prepares you for the relaxing part of the day. The camp offers a peaceful setting, perfect for unwinding after the hike.

The boat ride on Lake Naivasha lasts roughly an hour and is a highlight for many. It’s a chance to see hippos swimming with their mouths wide open, as well as a variety of waterbirds, including the African fish eagle. Reviewers mention taking binoculars and good cameras as valuable gear for capturing the abundant birdlife.

While the boat ride costs an additional USD 25, many feel it’s well worth the expense given the wildlife sightings and scenic photo opportunities. The boat also provides a different perspective of the lakes and habitat that support Kenya’s diverse bird populations.

Ending the Day and Return to Nairobi

After the boat ride, the tour winds down with the drive back to Nairobi. The whole day is well-paced, balancing activity with moments of tranquility by the water.

The reviews commend the professionalism of the guides and drivers, with one traveler noting that Peter the driver was particularly friendly and safe, while Joshua, the guide, was praised for his attentiveness and animal spotting skills. Having a knowledgeable guide, although sometimes limited in wildlife commentary, clearly adds value to the experience.

What You Should Know Before Booking

Transportation and Timing

Private transport ensures comfort and flexibility, starting early at 6 am. This timing is great for making the most of daylight hours, especially for the hike and boat ride. The journey through the scenic highlands and Rift Valley provides a visually appealing start to your day.

Cost and Value

At $100 per person, the tour covers park entrance fees, guide services, transportation, and bottled water, which makes it a competitive package. The optional Lake Naivasha boat ride at USD 25 is an extra expense but adds significantly to the overall experience.

Comparing the cost to the activities included, many travelers find it good value—especially considering the diversity of sights, active hiking, and wildlife encounters packed into a single day.

Physical Fitness and Suitability

The hike is manageable for most with moderate fitness, but it does involve some uphill walking and navigating gullies. If you’re pregnant or have pre-existing medical conditions, it’s advisable to consider alternative activities, as some reviews suggest it might be physically demanding.

What to Bring

Participants should carry their passport or ID, comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, and binoculars if birdwatching is a priority. Cameras with zoom lenses are recommended to capture wildlife from a distance.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

One reviewer described the trip as “worthy even if it was a bit expensive”, highlighting the scenic beauty and enjoyable boat ride. Another appreciated the friendly and punctual guides—Peter and Dominick—who made the day smooth and safe. Despite some limitations in wildlife commentary, travelers valued the stunning views and photo opportunities.

The feedback about the giraffes near the park gate was a pleasant surprise, illustrating how Kenya’s wildlife often appears unexpectedly. The guides’ ability to spot many birds and wildlife was also appreciated, even if wildlife knowledge was not exhaustive.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits outdoor enthusiasts, wildlife watchers, and photographers eager to capture Kenya’s volcanic landscapes and lakes. It’s perfect for travelers who want a full-day adventure that combines moderate physical activity with scenic relaxation. Those looking for a guided tour with all logistics handled will find this particularly convenient.

If you’re short on time but want a taste of Kenya’s natural beauty, this trip offers a balanced blend of activity, scenery, and wildlife—without the need for specialized equipment or expert wildlife knowledge.

The Sum Up

The Day Tour to Mount Longonot National Park offers a well-rounded experience for anyone keen on seeing Kenya’s volcanic landscapes, enjoying a physical challenge, and spotting wildlife in a natural setting. While the guide’s wildlife commentary may be limited, the stunning views of the Rift Valley, the adventure of the hike, and the serenity of Lake Naivasha make this a worthwhile trip.

The tour’s inclusive price, professional transport, and scenic stops make it an excellent value for those wanting an active day out of Nairobi. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of adventure and natural beauty, and who don’t mind a moderate physical challenge for the reward of spectacular scenery.

For anyone seeking a genuine taste of Kenya’s landscape diversity—volcanoes, lakes, and wildlife—this tour ticks many boxes without overcomplicating the itinerary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The hike up Mount Longonot is considered medium difficulty and takes under 4 hours round trip, making it accessible for most with moderate fitness. If you have mobility concerns or pre-existing medical conditions, check with the provider.

What is included in the $100 price?
The price covers park entrance fees, a professional guide, private transport, hotel/airport pickup and drop-off, walking tour, and bottled water.

Can I do the boat ride in Lake Naivasha?
Yes, the boat ride costs an additional USD 25 and is a popular part of the day, offering wildlife viewing and birdwatching opportunities.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, binoculars, and a camera. It’s also helpful to carry some snacks or extra water if desired.

How long does the entire trip last?
The tour departs at 6 am and typically returns in the late afternoon, making it a full day of activities from early morning start to evening return.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While suitable for most with moderate fitness, very young children or those with health issues might find the hike challenging. Always check with the provider if unsure.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This rundown should help you decide if this Mount Longonot day tour fits your Kenya travel plans. It combines adventure, scenic beauty, and wildlife in a package designed to give you a memorable, authentic experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: