Mount Longonot National Park – All You Need To Know Before You Go (with Photos and Videos)

All you need to know about Mount Longonot National Park Kenya before you go for a Kenya safari. Mount Longonot National Park is located in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya, approximately 90 kilometers northwest of Nairobi, the capital city. The park is known for its prominent volcanic features, with the main attraction being Mount Longonot, a stratovolcano that rises to an elevation of 2,776 meters (9,108 feet) above sea level.

Before planning a visit, it’s advisable to check with local authorities or the Kenya Wildlife Service for any updates on park regulations, entrance fees, and safety information. Always be prepared for hiking, wear appropriate clothing, and carry enough water, especially if you plan to hike to the summit of Mount Longonot.

The park is named after this volcano, and it’s a popular destination for hiking. The trail to the crater rim provides stunning panoramic views of the Rift Valley and Lake Naivasha.

While the park is not particularly known for its wildlife compared to other Kenyan parks, you may encounter various species such as buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, and antelopes. Additionally, numerous bird species inhabit the area.

Besides hiking, the park offers opportunities for bird watching, nature walks, and photography. The landscape, characterized by savannah grasslands and acacia forests, is quite scenic.

About Mount Longonot

Mount Longonot is a stratovolcano located in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya. Before visiting Mount Longonot, it’s advisable to check for any updates on park regulations, entrance fees, and safety information from local authorities or the Kenya Wildlife Service.

It is situated approximately 90 kilometers northwest of Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. It is part of the Rift Valley’s volcanic features and lies to the southeast of Lake Naivasha.

Longonot is a dormant volcano that last erupted in the 1860s. It is believed to have formed through the volcanic activity associated with the East African Rift System. The volcano is characterized by its circular crater, which is about 1.8 kilometers in diameter.

The summit of Mount Longonot reaches an elevation of 2,776 meters (9,108 feet) above sea level. The climb to the crater rim is a popular activity for visitors, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Rift Valley and Lake Naivasha.

About the Crater on Mount Longonot

The crater on Mount Longonot is a prominent feature of this stratovolcano, and it adds to the geological and scenic allure of the mountain. When planning to visit Mount Longonot and explore its crater, it’s essential to be prepared for a challenging hike. Wear appropriate clothing, carry sufficient water, and be mindful of the elevation gain during the ascent to the crater rim. Additionally, check for any park regulations or safety guidelines before embarking on the hike.

This crater of Mount Longonot is approximately circular and has a diameter of about 1.8 kilometers. The circular shape is characteristic of volcanic craters and is a result of the mountain’s volcanic activity.

It was formed through the volcanic processes associated with Mount Longonot. Volcanic activity, including eruptions and subsequent collapses, shaped the landscape and resulted in the formation of the circular depression that we see today.

One of the popular activities for visitors to Mount Longonot is hiking to the rim of the crater. The trail takes you along the slopes of the volcano and eventually leads to the summit, offering panoramic views of the Rift Valley and Lake Naivasha. The trek provides an opportunity to explore the rim of the crater and appreciate the geological features up close.

Wildlife Adventure in Mount Longonot National Park

While Mount Longonot National Park is not as renowned for its wildlife as some other national parks in Kenya, it still offers visitors the opportunity to encounter various species of animals. The park is primarily known for its volcanic features and stunning landscapes, but wildlife enthusiasts can appreciate the diverse flora and fauna present in the area.

While the park’s wildlife offerings are not as diverse as those in some of Kenya’s larger reserves, the unique combination of volcanic landscapes and wildlife makes for a distinct and enjoyable experience. It’s recommended to bring binoculars for birdwatching and to be patient and observant while exploring the park. Additionally, guided tours may enhance your wildlife viewing experience, as knowledgeable guides can point out interesting species and share information about the park’s ecology.

Remember to respect the natural environment and follow any guidelines provided by park authorities to ensure the safety of both visitors and wildlife. Always check with local authorities or the Kenya Wildlife Service for the latest information and guidelines before planning your wildlife adventure in Mount Longonot National Park.

Notable Safari Activities in Mount Longonot National Park

While Mount Longonot National Park is not typically considered a traditional safari destination like some of Kenya’s larger wildlife reserves, it does offer unique activities that make it an interesting stop for those seeking a different kind of experience.

While Mount Longonot National Park doesn’t have the same concentration of large mammals as some other Kenyan reserves, the unique combination of volcanic landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities makes it an attractive destination for those seeking a different kind of safari experience. Always check with local authorities or the Kenya Wildlife Service for the latest information, regulations, and safety guidelines before planning your visit.

The primary activity in Mount Longonot is hiking, especially to the summit and along the crater rim. The trails provide not only a physical challenge but also breathtaking views of the Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha, and the surrounding landscapes. It’s a fantastic way to explore the park’s volcanic features and enjoy the outdoors.

Mount Longonot is home to various bird species, making it a good destination for birdwatching. Raptors, such as eagles and hawks, are often spotted, along with other resident and migratory birds. Bring binoculars to enhance your birdwatching experience.

Accessibility to Mount Longonot National Park

Mount Longonot National Park is conveniently located and easily accessible from Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. Before planning your visit, it’s recommended to check with local authorities or the Kenya Wildlife Service for the latest information on park regulations, entrance fees, and any other relevant details. Additionally, be prepared for the hike by wearing appropriate clothing and bringing sufficient water, especially if you plan to hike to the summit of Mount Longonot.

Mount Longonot is situated approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) northwest of Nairobi. The park can be reached by road, making it a popular day-trip destination for both locals and tourists.

The park is accessible by road, and the journey from Nairobi takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The road to the park is well-maintained, and you can drive or take public transportation to reach the entrance.

Best Time to Visit Mount Longonot National Park

The best time to visit Mount Longonot National Park is during the dry season, which typically occurs from late June to early October and from late December to March. It’s important to note that weather conditions can vary, and unexpected rain showers can occur even during the dry season. Before planning your visit, it’s advisable to check the weather forecast and park conditions. Additionally, consider the fact that the park may close during heavy rain for safety reasons.

Always check with local authorities or the Kenya Wildlife Service for the latest information on park regulations, entrance fees, and safety guidelines. Regardless of the season, be prepared for hiking by wearing appropriate clothing, bringing sufficient water, and following safety guidelines provided by park authorities.

Dry Season (Late June to Early October)

This is generally considered the best time to visit Mount Longonot National Park.
The weather is dry, and the skies are clear, providing excellent visibility for the panoramic views from the summit and crater rim.
Hiking conditions are optimal during the dry season, with less mud and slippery trails.

Short Rains (Late October to Early December)

While it’s possible to visit during the short rains, the weather can be less predictable, and there may be occasional rain showers.
The landscape is lush and green during this time, and birdlife may be more active.

Long Rains (Late March to May)

The long rains season is characterized by heavy rainfall, and this may lead to muddy and challenging hiking conditions.
The lush vegetation can be beautiful, but the views may be obscured by clouds.