Day Tour To Mount Longonot From Nairobi

Day Tour To Mount Longonot From Nairobi: A Complete Guide to Kenya’s Volcanic Gem

Planning a day trip from Nairobi that combines adventure, natural beauty, and authentic wildlife encounters? The Day Tour to Mount Longonot from Nairobi is an excellent option for travelers eager to explore Kenya’s volcanic landscapes without the hassle of an overnight stay. With a well-structured itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and a mix of hiking, sightseeing, and birdwatching, this tour packs a lot into a single day.

What makes this trip special? We particularly love the breathtaking views from the Rift Valley viewpoint, the challenging yet rewarding hike around the crater rim, and the peaceful boat ride on Lake Naivasha where you can spot hippos and hundreds of bird species. That said, it’s worth noting that the hike requires medium physical fitness and some parts can be physically demanding, so it’s best suited for active travelers. This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and wildlife—perfect for those looking for an authentic Kenyan day trip.

Who would enjoy this experience? If you’re a nature enthusiast, a keen hiker, or simply want a taste of Kenya’s volcanic landscapes and lakes in one day, this tour will suit you well. Families with children over 11 should find it manageable, especially with rest stops along the way. For those seeking a relaxed day, however, it might be a bit intense. Now, let’s unpack what makes this trip worth considering.

Key Points

• Stunning Rift Valley Views: Stop at a viewpoint overlooking the volcanic rift system, with views of dormant and active volcanoes.
• Moderate Hike: The climb up Mount Longonot’s crater rim is doable for those with medium fitness, offering a rewarding panoramic experience.
• Wildlife and Birdwatching: The boat ride on Lake Naivasha provides opportunities to see hippos, various bird species, and other wildlife.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides and a professional driver ensure a smooth, informative experience.
• Flexible Booking & Price: $135 per person with options to reserve and pay later, plus optional extras like the boat ride.
• Authentic Kenya: Combines scenic landscapes, adventure, and local wildlife in one full-day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting the Day: Early Departure and Rift Valley Views

The day kicks off bright and early at 6:00 am, with a comfortable pickup from your Nairobi hotel. As you depart Nairobi, you’ll journey through the lush Kikuyu highlands, an area renowned for their greenery and farming communities. Around 6:30 am, you’ll make a scheduled stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint. Here’s where the magic begins: the photo opportunity of the rift’s layered volcanic landscape, with Mt Suswa and Mt Longonot visible in the distance. The view stretches from the Red Sea all the way through Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania, showcasing the massive geological forces that shaped this land.

Traveling along this escarpment, you’ll get an up-close look at the active volcanic terrain, geysers like Olkaria, and several lakes that dot the valley floor. Many travelers find this vantage point an unforgettable highlight, snapping pictures of the undulating green landscape and the volcanic craters. It’s a great way to set the scene for what’s ahead and appreciate the sheer scale of Kenya’s geological marvels.

Approaching Mount Longonot National Park

By 7:00 am, you’ll arrive at Mount Longonot National Park, a volcanic caldera that’s famous for its hiking trails and birdlife. The drive into the park sets the tone for the day’s adventure, with the mountain rising prominently in the backdrop.

The hike starts at the park’s base, where you’ll begin climbing through gullies and volcanic rock formations. The ascent is considered medium in difficulty, so a decent level of fitness is recommended. From our experience, guides like Faida—who previously received praise for their friendly knowledge—are invaluable. They’ll point out interesting geological features and help pace the trek, which typically lasts 2-3 hours round trip.

Once you reach the crater rim, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views into the volcanic crater—a vast, green depression surrounded by rugged edges. For the more energetic, completing the full rim hike offers a chance to see the crater from all angles. Reviewers mention making rest stops and appreciating the cool breeze, which helps during the ascent.

Exploring Mount Longonot’s Crater

Looking into the crater, you’ll observe a lush, green landscape dotted with small lakes and volcanic cones. It’s a surreal sight—an ancient volcano still filled with life. For those with the stamina, circling the rim adds an extra layer of adventure, offering views of the surrounding landscape and the distant Great Rift Valley.

After descending, you’ll have some free time at the park headquarters to relax or take photos. Many visitors find the hike and views worth every effort, describing it as a “very nice experience” that blends physical activity with spectacular scenery.

Transition to Lake Naivasha

Post-hike, the group heads to Lake Naivasha around 12:00 pm. The scenic drive through the park’s outskirts offers more opportunities for spotting wildlife and enjoying Kenya’s characteristic green landscape. Arriving at Marina Camp, you’ll indulge in a lakeside lunch, which often features fresh fish and local flavors. Watching the lake’s tranquility and the soaring birdlife makes for a perfect dining backdrop.

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Lake Naivasha Boat Ride: Wildlife Encounters

At approximately 2:30 pm, you’ll hop on an hour-long boat ride in Lake Naivasha. This part of the tour receives high praise, especially from families. You will glide across the water and come face-to-face with hippos basking in the water, often opening their mouths wide—it’s both amusing and awe-inspiring. Bird enthusiasts will love spotting the African fish eagles, which dive skillfully for fish, and countless other waterfowl.

The boat ride is a relaxed, fun way to witness wildlife in their natural habitat, with the option to see the hippo pool and observe the animals in a peaceful, scenic setting.

Return Journey to Nairobi

By 4:00 pm, the tour winds down as you head back to Nairobi, passing through the Kikuyu Highlands once more. Expect to arrive in the city around 5:30 pm, with your guide ensuring smooth drop-offs at your hotel.

What’s Included and What to Consider

This tour is priced at $135 per person, which, considering the full-day nature, transportation, park fees, and guiding services, offers decent value. The tour includes entrance fees to Mount Longonot, a professional guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off. It’s worth noting that lunch is not included, giving you the flexibility to dine at a local restaurant or pack snacks.

An optional boat ride on Lake Naivasha is available for $25 USD per person, giving you the chance to upgrade your wildlife viewing experience. The tour is conducted in English, with knowledgeable guides who are praised for their friendly and informative manner.

Why This Tour Works Well

Travelers value the well-organized itinerary and the chance to see several of Kenya’s natural highlights in one day. The viewpoints, hiking experience, and lake wildlife combine to create a comprehensive day trip that balances active exploration with moments of relaxation. The guides’ expertise, particularly in spotting wildlife and explaining geological features, enhances the experience significantly, as reflected in reviews mentioning guides like Faida.

The timing is designed to maximize the cooler parts of the day, especially for the hike, which helps avoid the midday heat. The 4-hour window from departure to return makes it ideal for travellers on a tight schedule, yet the activities feel substantial enough to justify the cost.

Final Thoughts

This Mount Longonot day tour from Nairobi offers a great introduction to Kenya’s volcanic landscapes and wildlife. Its strengths lie in the stunning views, moderate hike, and inviting lake wildlife encounters. Whether you’re an adventure lover or simply seeking a scenic break from city life, this trip ticks many boxes.

The experience is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a few hours of walking and some physical exertion. Families with older children or teens will find it manageable and enjoyable, especially with the expert guidance and scenic pauses. For those who prefer a more relaxed day, keep in mind the hike may be more demanding than a casual stroll.

All in all, if you’re after a memorable, authentically Kenyan day trip that combines adventure, nature, and wildlife, this tour offers solid value and a chance to see some of Kenya’s most iconic landscapes.

FAQs

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
The tour begins with hotel pickups around 6:00 am, so it’s best to be ready by then for a smooth start.

What is the level of physical fitness required?
The hike up Mount Longonot requires medium fitness. You’ll climb through gullies and the crater rim, with rest stops along the way.

Is lunch included in the tour price?
No, lunch is not included. You are free to choose a local restaurant or bring snacks for the day.

Can I participate in the boat ride?
Yes, the boat ride on Lake Naivasha is optional and costs an extra $25 USD per person.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect hippos in the lake and numerous bird species, including the African fish eagle, which dives for fish without missing.

How long is the entire tour?
From pickup to drop-off, the tour lasts approximately 11 to 11.5 hours, ending around 5:30 pm in Nairobi.

Are guides knowledgeable about the area?
Yes, guides like Faida have been praised for their friendliness and expertise, providing insightful commentary throughout the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 11 will find it manageable, especially with the stops and guided support. Very young kids may find the hike challenging.

What should I wear?
Comfortable hiking clothes, sturdy shoes, sun protection, and a hat are recommended, especially for the outdoor portions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

In summary, this tour balances adventure with scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and expert guidance, making it a fantastic choice for those wanting a comprehensive Kenyan day trip. It’s especially ideal for active travelers eager to explore the volcanic landscapes and lakes of Central Kenya in just one day.

You can check availability for your dates here: