Private Tour to Mount Longonot and Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha

Planning a day trip from Nairobi that combines scenic hikes, volcanic craters, and lakeside wildlife? This private tour to Mount Longonot and Lake Naivasha promises an immersive experience in Kenya’s iconic Great Rift Valley. It’s a well-rounded adventure that appeals to nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone craving a genuine taste of the Kenyan landscape—all while enjoying the comfort and flexibility of a private guide.

What we really love about this experience is the personalized pace, allowing you to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed; the stunning views over the Rift Valley, which are truly breathtaking; and the opportunity for an optional boat ride that offers a chance to see hippos and a variety of birdlife up close. Plus, the fact that it’s all conveniently organized with hotel pickup and drop-off makes it a hassle-free day out.

One thing to keep in mind is that the hike up Mount Longonot requires some physical fitness—it’s challenging but rewarding. If you have mobility issues or prefer a more relaxed outing, this might not be the best fit. Still, for active travelers eager to get their heart rate up while soaking in remarkable scenery, it’s a perfect match.

This tour is ideal for those who want to see Kenya beyond the usual city sights, especially if you’re keen on outdoor adventures and authentic landscapes. It’s suitable for solo explorers, couples, or small groups who appreciate the flexibility of a private guide and personalized itinerary.

Key Points

• Private tour means you can explore at your own pace, with personalized attention.
• Stunning views of the Great Rift Valley and its volcanic features.
• Optional boat ride offers close encounters with hippos, birds, and lake scenery.
• Early departure allows for cooler morning hikes and less crowded trails.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off at Nairobi hotels streamline your day.
• Good value for money considering the private guide, transport, and park fees included.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting early at Mount Longonot National Park

The adventure kicks off at 6:00 am, with a drive through Nairobi’s lush Kikuyu highlands and the eastern Rift Valley escarpment. As you leave the city behind, the scenery shifts to wide-open vistas dotted with volcanic features. Making a quick stop at the Great Rift Valley Viewpoint is a highlight. Here, you get a bird’s eye view of the valley floor—an expansive, dramatic landscape shaped over millions of years. Reviewers note that this viewpoint, perched on the escarpment, provides a perfect photo opportunity and a real sense of the scale and age of the Rift system.

The drive from Nairobi to Mount Longonot takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. While the journey is smooth, some guests mention that traffic can sometimes be heavy, especially if there’s an event like the WRC rally. Coming early helps dodge the crowds and heat, making the hike more pleasant.

The hike at Mount Longonot

Once at the park, your guide will lead you on a guided hike to the crater’s rim. The ascent is often described as “challenging” but manageable for those with moderate fitness. The trail offers views into the crater itself, with forests and volcanic formations, and sweeping panoramic vistas over the Rift Valley and beyond.

One reviewer called this “an amazing experience” that “needs physical fitness,” emphasizing that it’s best suited for hikers ready for a bit of a workout. The crater’s rim walk is dramatic, with steep drops and rugged terrain, so sturdy shoes and hydration are essential. For many, the highlight is reaching the summit and looking out over the crater’s lush interior and the sprawling valley below.

Descending and heading to Lake Naivasha

After about four hours of hiking, you’ll descend from Mount Longonot and head towards Lake Naivasha. The drive takes just over an hour, offering a change of scenery from volcanic rock to the wetlands and forests surrounding the lake.

Lunch at Marina Camp

Arriving at Marina Camp around 1:00 pm, you’ll enjoy a lakeside lunch with views of Naivasha. Guests rave about the delicious food and the peaceful setting where you can relax and soak in the natural beauty. It’s a perfect pause before your next activity.

The optional boat ride

Starting around 2:30 pm, the boat ride on Lake Naivasha is a real highlight. For an additional USD 25 per person, you’ll cruise the waters observing hippos, diving African fish eagles, and an incredible variety of bird species—some of which are only visible from a boat. Reviewers mention seeing hippo pools close enough to feel like you’re in their world, and many appreciate the boat’s relaxed pace, perfect for snapping photos or simply enjoying the scenery.

The boat ride typically lasts about an hour, and guests often say it’s worth the extra cost for the wildlife sightings and tranquil lake atmosphere. Sightings of birds like kingfishers and cormorants add to the charm of this part of the trip.

Return and drop-off

The tour wraps up with a comfortable drive back to Nairobi, arriving in the early evening. The private setup ensures you’re not part of a large group and can customize the pace or ask questions along the way.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Knowledgeable guides like Frank, Joshua, and Victor receive praise for their patience and insights, making the experience more engaging. Many reviewers highlight how guides not only shared interesting facts but also made sure everyone felt comfortable and safe on the trail.

The scenic diversity—from volcanic craters to lakeside wildlife—creates a well-rounded day that captures Kenya’s natural beauty. The early start maximizes cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, especially on the hike, which many travelers find more enjoyable.

The private nature of the tour is a major plus, providing flexibility and a sense of exclusivity that group tours often lack. The inclusion of park fees in the price simplifies planning, and the option to choose the boat ride means you can tailor your day’s activities.

The value for money

At USD 125 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck, especially considering the private guide, transport, park entrance fees, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. The optional boat ride is extra but well worth it for those interested in wildlife and birdwatching.

Potential downsides

While the overall experience is highly praised, some guests mention that the hike can be demanding—not suitable for those with limited mobility or low fitness levels. Traffic delays can also occur, though they are outside the tour operator’s control. It’s advisable to start early to avoid these issues and enjoy the cooler temperatures.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This day trip suits outdoor enthusiasts eager for a physical challenge and scenic vistas. It’s perfect for couples or small groups who want a customized experience, away from crowded tourist spots. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see hippos, birds, and volcanic landscapes in a single day.

Travelers interested in photography will find plenty of stunning vistas, while those looking for a relaxing lakeside lunch and wildlife viewing will also enjoy the boat ride. It’s a good fit for those comfortable with moderate physical activity and keen to explore Kenya’s natural wonders in a private, comfortable setting.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your Nairobi hotel within the CBD, making logistics easy and stress-free.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, from early morning departure to early evening return, including time for hikes, lunch, and the boat ride.

What is the price for the boat ride?
The boat ride costs around USD 25 per person and is optional. It adds a fantastic wildlife experience but can be skipped if you prefer to relax or have other plans.

What should I bring for the hike?
Sturdy shoes, water, sun protection, and a hat are recommended. The hike is physically demanding, so prepare accordingly.

Can the tour be tailored?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s flexibility to adjust the pace or extend certain activities, like spending more time at Lake Naivasha or skipping the boat ride.

What is the best time of day to start?
An early start around 6:00 am helps avoid the heat and crowds, especially for the hike, and makes for the most comfortable experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Moderate physical fitness is required, so it’s best suited for older children or teens who are comfortable with hiking.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Expect hippos and a variety of birds, including diving African fish eagles and many other species that inhabit Lake Naivasha.

How physically demanding is the hike?
The hike involves some steep sections and rugged terrain, so moderate fitness is recommended. Reviewers stress that it’s an “amazing experience” but “needs physical fitness.”

Final Thoughts

This private tour to Mount Longonot and Lake Naivasha offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and wildlife encounters. The knowledgeable guides and private setup provide a comfortable, flexible experience that maximizes your day in Kenya’s Rift Valley. Whether you’re a hiker, birdwatcher, or simply a lover of stunning landscapes, you’ll find plenty to love here.

While the hike is physically demanding, the views, wildlife, and sense of achievement make it worth the effort. The optional boat ride adds a relaxed and wildlife-rich conclusion to a day filled with natural beauty. The tour offers excellent value for travelers who want a personalized, authentic Kenyan experience without the hassle of organizing each detail themselves.

Ideal for active travelers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a memorable day out in Kenya’s extraordinary landscape—this trip delivers adventure, stunning scenery, and a touch of wildlife magic.