Overnight Tour To Mount Longonot And Hells Gate Naivasha

Traveling through Kenya often means exploring incredible wildlife reserves or vibrant city life, but this particular overnight tour offers a fantastic escape into the country’s geological and scenic treasures. It’s a carefully curated experience blending adventure, stunning views, and authentic nature encounters that appeal to those craving more than just safaris.

What excites us most about this tour? First, the chance to hike around the rim of Mount Longonot’s crater—an active volcano with panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley. Second, the boat ride at Lake Naivasha promises a close-up encounter with hippos and a variety of bird species, making it a bird-watcher’s paradise. Third, the biking and gorges inside Hells Gate park add an active, hands-on element that energizes the trip.

However, one aspect that might require some extra thought is the physicality involved; the hike on Mount Longonot requires medium physical fitness and the biking at Hells Gate is also a bit physically demanding. But for those with a good level of fitness, this is a highly rewarding experience.

This tour suits travelers who love outdoor adventures, nature photography, and want to explore Kenya’s geological marvels beyond the usual safari. It balances active pursuits with moments of rest and scenic beauty, making it a well-rounded option for those looking to experience Kenya’s landscape diversity.

Key Points

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines hiking, boating, biking, and sightseeing in one short trip.
• Authentic Experiences: Offers real engagement with Kenya’s geological features, not just tourist spots.
• Expert Guides: Appreciated for their knowledge and friendly approach, making activities smoother and more informative.
• Scenic Highlights: Expect breathtaking views of the Rift Valley, crater rim, and Lake Naivasha.
• Value for Money: At $575, the price includes transport, accommodation, park entrances, guides, meals, and activities.
• Physical Activity Level: Moderate—you’ll need to be comfortable with hiking and biking, but rest stops are provided.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Nairobi to Mount Longonot and Lake Naivasha

The adventure begins early, with pickup from Nairobi, setting off through the lush Kikuyu highlands towards the eastern edge of the Great African Rift Valley. The drive itself is scenic—think rolling green hills and volcanic landscapes—creating anticipation for what’s to come. A highlight on the drive is the stop at a viewpoint overlooking the rift valley floor, where you can snap photos of lakes, volcanoes, and the sprawling valley below. The guide often shares interesting facts about the formation of the rift, which began around 5 million years ago, and continues to be an active volcanic area.

Arriving at Mount Longonot National Park, the real fun starts. The hike up to the crater rim is a core part of the experience. It’s considered moderately challenging, with some steep gullies and uneven terrain, so good footwear and a decent level of fitness are recommended. During the ascent, you’ll pass through volcanic gulleys, and some reviewers mention making strategic rest stops, which are well-placed to catch your breath and enjoy the scenery.

Once at the crater rim, the views are spectacular—you look down into the crater’s caldera with its lush vegetation and possibly spot some wildlife. Some more energetic hikers choose to walk around the rim, adding a full circle of approximately 12 km. From the top, you’ll get a panoramic view of the Rift Valley stretching into the distance, with lakes and volcanic landscapes painting a picture of Earth’s raw power.

Descending from Mount Longonot, you’ll then head to the lakeside town of Naivasha for a relaxing lunch at Marina Camp, where the lakeside setting makes for a tranquil break. Many reviews highlight how peaceful and scenic this spot is, with good food and views of the lake and the numerous bird species fluttering by.

Lake Naivasha Boat Ride

Post-lunch, a boat ride on Lake Naivasha offers a chance to see some of Kenya’s most remarkable birdlife, including the famous African fish eagle diving for fish. The boat trip is usually about an hour long and takes you to the hippo pool, where you can observe hippos in their natural habitat—some even opening their mouths widely, making for striking photos. Reviewers often mention the abundance of bird species, with sightings of kingfishers, cormorants, and herons.

A boat trip here is a highlight for many, providing both a relaxing moment and excellent photography opportunities. It’s a chance to witness the vibrant biodiversity of the Rift Valley lakes and get close to the large mammals that call this area home.

Overnight at Aloepark Hotel

After the boat ride, you’ll transfer to Aloepark Hotel or similar accommodations. This part of the tour allows travelers to unwind, enjoy dinner, and rest before the next day’s adventures. The hotel’s setting offers a comfortable base, with most reviews noting its convenient location and pleasant ambiance.

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Day 2: Hells Gate and Gorges

The morning begins early with breakfast before heading to Hells Gate National Park, known for its dramatic gorges and geothermal features. Arriving around 8:30 am, you’ll start with a two-hour biking tour—a popular choice that allows for a more intimate experience with the park’s landscapes. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, who help navigate the trails and share insights about the park’s volcanic history.

The gorges inside the park are a defining feature—slim, winding depressions where you can walk underneath or even through caves formed by volcanic activity. Some reviews from visitors mention how walking in these gorges feels like stepping into a different world, with towering rock walls and the coolness of shaded caves.

Following the biking adventure, you’ll have time to explore further on foot, with some gorges offering pathways that lead to small caves and scenic viewpoints. The park’s geothermal activity results in interesting features like hot springs and fumaroles, adding to the park’s allure.

The tour wraps up around 1 pm with a picnic lunch, allowing you to soak in the natural landscape before heading back to Nairobi. The return trip offers the chance to reflect on a full day of adventure, with most guests arriving back in the city by late afternoon.

Analyzing the Value

At $575 per person, this tour packs a lot into a short timeframe. All transportation, park entrance fees, guides, meals, and activities are included, making it easier for travelers to budget without surprises. The inclusion of bicycle rentals and a boat ride enhances the value, offering diverse ways to experience Kenya’s landscapes.

Most reviewers agree that the tour’s balance of active pursuits and scenic downtime makes it suitable for travelers who enjoy physical activities without feeling overwhelmed. The guided nature of the tour ensures you gain insights about the geological features and local ecology, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for hiking and biking.
• Bring sun protection—hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essentials.
• A light jacket might be useful for early mornings or cooler evenings.
• Carry your camera or binoculars for bird and wildlife viewing.
• The tour is best suited for those with moderate fitness levels, as some ascents and biking segments can be physically demanding.
• Keep hydrated; water bottles are recommended, especially during hikes.

Final Thoughts

This overnight tour offers a unique mix of geological exploration, birdwatching, and active adventure, making it a fantastic choice for travelers who want to see a different side of Kenya. The scenery is genuinely stunning, and the variety of activities keeps the experience engaging from start to finish.

While the physical aspects require a reasonable fitness level, the well-organized schedule and expert guides help ensure that everyone can enjoy it comfortably. The value for money is clear, considering all included activities, entrance fees, and meals—this is a trip that balances adventure and relaxation beautifully.

This tour is particularly ideal for those who love the outdoors and are eager to see Kenya’s volcanic landscapes up close, beyond the typical safari experience. It’s a chance to connect with nature in a more active way, providing memories that go beyond wildlife sightings.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The tour involves hiking and biking, so it’s best for children who are physically fit and comfortable with outdoor activities. It’s suitable for families with active older children.

What’s the best time of year to go?
While specific seasonal details aren’t provided, Kenya’s dry seasons generally offer better conditions for hiking and outdoor activities, making June to October and January to February ideal.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes two lunches, one dinner, and breakfast, which helps simplify planning and budgeting.

What should I bring with me?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, camera, water bottle, and possibly a light jacket for cooler mornings.

Are park entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for Longonot and Hells Gate parks are covered.

Is the accommodation comfortable?
Guests typically stay at Aloepark Hotel or similar, which offers a good base with a comfortable setting for resting after active days.

Can I go around the crater rim at Mount Longonot?
Yes, if you have the strength, you can walk around the crater rim, adding extra distance to your hike.

Is the tour guided?
Absolutely. The guides are knowledgeable and speak English fluently, ensuring you get interesting insights and safe navigation during activities.

How long does the entire trip last?
The tour departs early morning and returns by late afternoon or early evening, totaling about two days of adventure-packed exploration.

This tour offers a fantastic chance to explore Kenya’s volcanic landscapes, lakes, and gorges with an active, engaging itinerary that’s perfect for adventure-loving travelers. Whether you’re into hiking, birdwatching, or simply want stunning scenery, it’s a trip that balances all those elements beautifully.

You can check availability for your dates here: