Mt. Longonot

Derived from the Maasai word Oloonong’ot meaning mountains of many spurs and ridges, Mt. Longonot offers breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley as our ultimate reward at the summit.

The trail starting point is at the gate and takes 4 – 6 hrs depending on one’s pace. It starts out flat, then gently slopes with a moderate ascent towards the crater ascent. Once you reach the rim, you have the choice to descend or hike all the way around the crater. While descending, one can go back the same way or use the Canyon trail which is a must to be accompanied and advised by the guide.

The first section starts out on a well-paved dirt road then branches out uphill to stairs and dusty areas while going uphill. The path around the crater circuit is a single file. The way back is the same route and the total distance is around 12.5km. This hike is firmly considered a moderate hike due to the 12.5km distance and 600+ m altitude change

Hike researched and photographed by Abby Koyier in June 2024

The road to the park is not very good and is frequently used by heavy vehicles, thus arrival can delayed on occasion. Expected travel time is 2.5 hours

We would be using Waiyaki way followed by Mai Mahiu road.

1. Hiking level – Moderate. Total hiking distance is around 12.5 km. Factors contributing include general flat terrain mixed with several steep slopes, 600m altitude ascent, and slippery soil if it’s been raining

2. Main attractions – Diverse vegetation, scenery including views of Lake Naivasha, Mt. Suswa, Hells gate, cave, and crater views.

3. Type of hike – Gentle Mountain hike.

4. Atmospheric conditions – Tends to be hot, dry, though in cooler months can be foggy

5. Slipping hazard – Average as there are some sections with gentle slope and a slight uphill towards the crater. However, when it rains, caution ought to be observed.

6. Steepness – Total elevation change is 630m over 12.5km on a gentle slope. Starting altitude is at 2150m and finishing at 2780m

7. Hiking path condition – Road stretch, dusty concrete and single path

8. Water usage – medium. Recommend a minimum of 2.5 litres because of the moderate altitude and warm temperatures

9. Route visibility – The trail starts out with a visible road path that gets dusty, and has stairs and a single file path. The path is quite straightforward and is up the mountain, round the crater and back down

10. Biodiversity – Numerous species of insects, flora, birds, Zebras/antelopes and diverse vegetation.

• Good hiking boots, walking stick
• Sun hat – to protect against the sun/rain gear to protect against rain.
• Insect repellent, dust mask
• Water – at least 2.5 litres
• Snacks and lunch – since we expect to start at 6.00 am and finish latest by 5pm, we recommend you bring snacks and lunch to eat while relaxing at scenic locations along the route