Day tour to mount Longonot park from Nairobi

This detailed review covers a popular day trip from Nairobi that promises a taste of Kenya’s incredible natural beauty without the hassle of an overnight stay. The Mount Longonot and Lake Naivasha tour is highly rated, receiving a perfect 5.0 from over twenty reviews, and is recommended by 96% of travelers.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines an active volcano hike, panoramic views of the Rift Valley, and a relaxing lakeside boat ride — all in one day. The guided hike is engaging but doable for most, and the scenic stops offer fantastic photo opportunities. However, a key consideration is that the tour is quite full in terms of schedule, so it might feel rushed for those wanting a more leisurely pace. This tour suits travelers looking for a comprehensive, authentic experience of Kenya’s wilderness in a single day, especially if you enjoy outdoor adventures and stunning vistas.

Key Points

• Full-day private experience with hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience
• Hike Mount Longonot crater, with options to circle the rim for more adventure
• Breathtaking views of the Rift Valley from a designated viewpoint, showcasing volcanic features
• Lakeside lunch and boat ride at Lake Naivasha, with opportunities to see wildlife like hippos and a variety of birds
• Support from knowledgeable guides enhances the experience and ensures safety during the hike
• Cost-effective at $90 per person, including entrance fees and transportation

An Overview of the Experience

This tour is designed to give you a full taste of Kenya’s iconic landscapes in a single, well-organized day. The journey begins early, with hotel pickup around 6:00 am, allowing you to beat some of the crowds and make the most of your day. The main highlight is the hike at Mount Longonot National Park, a dormant volcano with an impressive crater rim.

The experience starts with a scenic drive into the rift valley, where you’ll arrive at the park, ready to ascend the mountain. The hike requires medium physical fitness, so it’s suitable for most travelers comfortable with moderate activity. The guides, praised for their knowledge and friendliness, will support you as you climb through gulley areas, taking breaks at designated spots. Reaching the rim, you’ll peer down into the crater and, if you’re up for it, walk around the rim for extraordinary views.

After the hike, you’ll visit a viewpoint overlooking the Rift Valley where you can marvel at the geological features that formed over 5 million years ago—a spectacle of active volcanoes, lakes, and geothermal activity. The guides often point out the volcanic mountains like Mt Suswa and Longonot, which are visible from this vantage point, making it a photographer’s paradise.

From there, the journey leads to Lake Naivasha, where you can relax and enjoy a lakeside lunch at Marina Camp. The restaurant’s location provides beautiful views of the lake, and the meal is a chance to unwind while watching birds and boats drift by. Most travelers find the lunch a highlight, and reviews mention the “sumptuous” quality and the picturesque setting.

The tour concludes with an hour-long boat ride in Lake Naivasha, where you’ll see the vibrant birdlife, including African fish eagles, and hippos lounging by the hippo pool. This part of the experience is optional—boats cost an extra $25 USD per person and are not included in the base price. Many reviewers describe the boat ride as a fun way to get close to Kenyan wildlife and observe the lake’s ecosystem.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Mount Longonot National Park – The Hike

Your day kicks off early with hotel pickup. Upon arriving at Mount Longonot, you’ll meet your mountain guide, who is praised for their expertise and clear communication. The hike itself lasts about four hours, covering a route that involves climbing through gullies and rocky sections. It’s described as moderately challenging but very rewarding.

Many reviewers appreciated how the guides made the hike accessible, offering rest stops and sharing insights into the volcanic history. One reviewer, Marcis_K, highlighted the “great hike” and the “amazing views”, emphasizing that the guides’ “care and intelligence” made all the difference. The crater rim walk is optional but highly recommended if you’re eager for more adventure and panoramic views.

The Rift Valley Viewpoint

After descending from Longonot, you’ll stop at a scenic viewpoint on the escarpment, which offers breathtaking vistas of the Rift Valley floor. From here, you can see the green craters of Mt Suswa and Mt Longonot, along with lakes and geothermal activity. The panoramic landscape stretches for miles, making it an ideal spot for photographs. The views here are described as “simply stunning”, and it’s a moment to appreciate the geological forces that shaped this region.

Lake Naivasha and Lakeside Lunch

The drive from Mount Longonot to Lake Naivasha takes around 30 minutes. At Marina Camp, you’ll settle in for a lakeside lunch featuring local cuisine. Travelers often mention the delicious food and the peaceful setting, with the lake and birdlife providing a natural backdrop.

Boat Ride in Lake Naivasha

Following lunch, the optional boat ride offers a chance to see hippos, which are said to “bleat and swim” within the water, and a variety of bird species, including the impressive diving African fish eagle. Guests report that the boat ride is “well worth the extra cost”, providing a close-up of the wildlife. Many reviewers, like Marcis_K, describe the boat trip as “fantastic” and a highlight of the tour.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides: The reviews consistently praise the guides for their intelligence and friendly attitude. Their insights add depth to the experience, especially during the hike and at viewpoints.

Stunning Views: From the crater rim to the Rift Valley vista, the landscape offers breathtaking scenery that’s difficult to match elsewhere. These vistas are perfect for photography and for understanding Kenya’s volcanic geography.

Variety of Activities: Combining a half-day hike, scenic viewpoints, lakeside lunch, and a boat ride, this tour offers diverse ways to enjoy Kenya’s wilderness—without the need for overnight stays or complicated logistics.

Convenience: With hotel pickup and drop-off included, the logistics are streamlined. The small group size and private nature of the tour mean you can enjoy a personalized experience, which many travelers appreciate.

Value for Money: At $90 USD, including entrance fees, transportation, and a guide, this tour offers great value considering the amount of activity packed into the day. The optional boat ride costs extra but is often considered worth it.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

While most travelers find this tour to be a wonderful day out, it is quite packed and physically demanding. The hike, although moderate, requires good footwear and some stamina. The day also starts early, so if you’re not a morning person, it might feel a bit rushed.

Plus, the lakeside lunch and boat ride are optional extras, which add to the cost if you want to fully participate. Also, the Spanish or German guide supplement is an option, but the standard guide speaks English, which most travelers will find sufficient.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see Kenya’s landscapes without the hassle of overnight travel. It’s suited for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers keen to capture the Rift Valley’s grandeur. It also works well for those who want a full day of outdoor activity with knowledgeable guides to enhance their understanding of the region.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, leisurely day with plenty of downtime, this might feel a bit full on. However, if you’re excited by outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This day trip to Mount Longonot and Lake Naivasha offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and wildlife, all within a comfortable, private setting. The guides’ expertise enhances the experience, making it informative yet relaxed. You’ll get incredible views of the volcanic landscapes, enjoy a lakeside lunch, and see Kenya’s famous birds and hippos—all in one memorable day.

The overall value is excellent, considering the included entrance fees, transportation, and guided hikes. It’s a great choice for active travelers wanting to maximize their time and see the best of the Rift Valley, without needing to stay overnight.

If you’re visiting Nairobi and crave an authentic outdoor experience with stunning vistas and wildlife, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, starting early in the morning around 6:00 am and returning in the evening.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but you should be comfortable with medium physical activity for the hike, and it’s recommended to wear good footwear.

Are hotel transfers included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Nairobi are included, making the experience more convenient.

Can I join the boat ride?
The boat ride is optional and costs an additional $25 USD per person. It is highly recommended as many reviews mention it as a highlight.

What about food and drinks?
Lunch is included at Marina Camp, but beverages are not. You may want to bring extra drinks if you wish.

Is there a guide available in Spanish or German?
An extra fee applies for guides in Spanish or German, but the standard guide speaks English. Some guests noted the absence of a Spanish guide but found the guides very friendly and helpful.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 26 days in advance, so it’s advisable to secure your spot early, especially during peak seasons.

This tour offers a real taste of Kenya’s volcanic landscapes and wildlife, making it an ideal day out for those wanting to explore beyond the city. With stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and a diverse itinerary, it’s a well-rounded adventure packed into one memorable day.