Day tour to Mount Longonot

Our review focuses on a popular day trip to Mount Longonot offered by KENSIL TOURS AND TRAVEL, a journey that promises breathtaking scenery, wildlife sightings, and a challenging hike. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed description, reviews, and local insights help paint a vivid picture of what you can expect.

What we love about this experience is the impactful mix of outdoor activity and wildlife spotting, the relatively affordable price point of $100, and the personalized service with a private guide. That said, you should consider that parts of the trail are steep and eroded, which might be demanding for some hikers. This trip suits travelers who enjoy active adventures, scenic landscapes, and want an authentic taste of Kenya’s natural beauty—all in a single day.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Experience panoramic vistas from the crater rim and the summit at 2776 meters.
• Wildlife Encounters: Spot zebras, giraffes, antelope, buffaloes, and hartebeests within the national park.
• Hiking Challenge: A 13.5 km trail that involves steep, eroded sections, perfect for active travelers.
• Flexible Options: Optional Lake Naivasha visit after Mount Longonot, with the possibility of starting with a boat ride.
• Value for Money: At $100, this private tour includes park fees, a knowledgeable guide, and hotel transfers.
• Authentic Experience: Small group, local English-speaking guide, and opportunities to enjoy the park’s natural vents and forest floor.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Mount Longonot Day Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive adventure into one of Kenya’s most striking volcanic landscapes. Starting from Nairobi, you’ll be driven to the Mount Longonot National Park, a protected area managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service. The highlight is undoubtedly the hiking experience around the crater, but the journey also provides chances to observe native wildlife and enjoy scenic views that are truly Instagram-worthy.

The cost, at $100 per person, might seem modest for an all-inclusive experience, especially considering park entrance fees, private guide, and hotel transfers. For travelers seeking a mix of adventure and nature within a manageable timeframe, this tour provides excellent value.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary and Experience

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with hotel pickup and drop-off within Nairobi CBD, ensuring convenience. The private nature of the tour means fewer crowds and a more tailored experience. The vehicle is comfortable, allowing you to relax during the roughly 2-hour drive to Mount Longonot.

Arrival at Mount Longonot National Park

Once at the park, your local English-speaking guide will brief you on safety and what to expect. The entrance fee is included in the price, so there are no surprises here. The park’s terrain is a mix of lush forested floors, volcanic vents, and jagged crater walls.

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The Hiking Route: From Gate to Crater Rim and Beyond

The main attraction is a 3.1 km trail from the entrance to the crater rim, followed by a 7.2 km loop around the crater’s edge. The entire route spans about 13.5 km, typically taking around 4.5 hours with breaks. The trail is steep and eroded in places, demanding a good level of fitness—something noted by a reviewer who said, “parts of the trail are heavily eroded and very steep.”

The elevation gain is substantial, with the gate around 2,150 meters above sea level and the summit reaching 2,776 meters. Expect to see small steam vents and a forest of small trees covering the crater floor, giving the landscape an otherworldly feel.

Wildlife and Scenery

Throughout the hike, you’ll encounter wildlife such as zebras, giraffes, Thomson’s gazelle, buffaloes, and hartebeest. The park’s ecosystem allows for some interesting animal sightings, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when animals tend to be more active.

GetYourGuide reviewer shared that the organization and guide were excellent, emphasizing the importance of a knowledgeable guide in enhancing the experience. The guide helps identify wildlife, navigate tricky sections, and ensure safety on steep parts.

The Crater and Summit Views

Reaching the crater rim offers spectacular views of the volcanic landscape, with jagged edges and the lush, green crater floor below. The views from the summit are particularly rewarding, allowing you to see across the park and beyond to the Great Rift Valley.

Optional Lake Naivasha Visit

While the main focus is Mount Longonot, many travelers choose to add a trip to Lake Naivasha afterward. This optional activity involves a boat ride or walking around the lakeshore, adding a gentle, scenic contrast to the strenuous hike.

Most tours schedule Lake Naivasha after Mount Longonot, but depending on preferences, some start with the boat ride and then head to the mountain. The boat ride is a fantastic way to see wildlife like hippos and bird species, providing a different perspective on the region’s natural beauty.

Drop-off and Reflection

After a fulfilling day, you’ll return to Nairobi, tired but with plenty of stories and photos. The private tour format ensures you’re not rushed, and the guide can tailor the experience depending on your pace and interests.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable and Friendly Guide

According to reviews, guides like Stephen are praised for their expertise and friendliness. They provide insights into the park’s geology, flora, and fauna, making the experience more enriching. Their local knowledge is key to spotting wildlife and understanding the volcanic landscape.

Scenic, Authentic Kenya

The views from the crater rim, combined with the chance to observe wild animals in their natural habitat, create a genuinely Kenyan experience. Unlike crowded group tours, this private setup offers a more personal connection with the landscape.

Value for Money

At $100, the tour includes park entrance fees, private transportation, and a guide—a package that offers a lot of value, especially when you consider how much one might pay for separate activities or transport. For travelers with a day to spare, it’s an efficient way to see diverse landscapes and wildlife.

Authentic Challenges

The steep and eroded trail might be tough for some, but it’s part of what makes the experience authentic. The tough sections are rewarded with panoramic vistas and a sense of achievement. One reviewer recommends not taking the same route back, hinting at a more varied and interesting way to complete the hike.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring plenty of water—water in plastic bottles is not allowed inside the park, so carry reusable bottles for refilling.
• Dress in comfortable hiking gear, including sturdy shoes, a hat, and sunscreen.
• Be prepared for steep sections—a good level of fitness will make the hike more enjoyable.
• If you want to visit Lake Naivasha, plan to add extra time to your day.
• Consider starting early to maximize wildlife sightings and avoid midday heat.
• The tour is language-friendly, conducted in English, making it easy for international travelers to follow along and ask questions.

The Sum Up

A day trip to Mount Longonot offers a blend of adventure, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery, making it an excellent choice for active travelers eager to experience Kenya’s volcanic landscapes. The private tour setup with a knowledgeable guide ensures a tailored experience, while the included park fees and hotel transfers deliver good value.

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy moderate to challenging hikes, want to see wildlife in a natural setting, and appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path encounters. Travelers with a sense of adventure and a love for scenic landscapes will find this tour to be a rewarding addition to their Kenyan itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the hike?
The entire hiking loop around Mount Longonot takes about 4.5 hours, covering approximately 13.5 km, with plenty of breaks for rest and photos.

What is the difficulty level?
The trail involves steep and eroded sections, so a reasonable level of fitness and comfortable hiking shoes are recommended. It’s challenging but manageable for most active travelers.

Is wildlife easily visible during the hike?
Yes, you can expect to see zebras, giraffes, and antelopes along the way. Wildlife sightings depend on the time of day and your luck, but the guide will help spot and identify animals.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off within Nairobi CBD, park entrance fees, a local English-speaking guide, and the park’s entry costs.

Can I visit Lake Naivasha afterward?
Yes, Lake Naivasha is optional and can be added after the Mount Longonot hike. Many travelers choose to do both in one day for a full nature experience.

What should I bring?
Bring water bottles (refillable), comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, and perhaps a camera. The park does not allow plastic bottles, so plan accordingly.

How do I pay for the tour?
You can reserve your spot with the option to “Reserve & Pay Later,” giving you flexibility before confirming your trip.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the hike is challenging, active children with good stamina and proper gear might enjoy it. Always check with the tour provider for age restrictions or recommendations.

This guided day trip to Mount Longonot combines adventure, nature, and cultural authenticity at a reasonable price point. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just seeking an active day in Kenya’s stunning landscapes, it’s sure to leave you with lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: