STRATO VOLCANIC (DORMANT VOLCANO) MOUNTAIN
The Mountain is located 75 kms from Nairobi and 25 Kms south east of Lake Naivasha, Mt Longononot comes from a maasai word ” Oloonong’ot” meaning a mountain of many ridges.
The mountain is a dormant Strato-Volcano with the last eruption that happened in 1863 whereby there were lava flows on the northern flank of the mountain.
Mount Longonot remains one of the most scenic parks to visit with a unique thick forest at the crater, The hike up the mountain is 3 kilometers up-to the crater rim, 7 kilometers round the crater rim and 3 kilometers down to the park gates a total of 13 kilometers. Depending with your Hiking pace the hike will take between 3-6 hours.
The Highest point in Mount Longonot is known as Kilele Ngamia at 2785 Meters above sea level, with amazing views of Lake Naivasha, Aberdares Ranges, Hells Gates national park and flower farms of Naivasha.
Hiking down to the crater is possible however you will need to be physically fit with the appropriate gear, Camping at the crater is also an activity one can do, but this means taking all the essential camping equipment’s food and water.
The terrain is a combination of steep slopes, fine dust, loose gravel and volcanic sand/ash this means a good hiking boots are essential for the hike.
Mount Longonot is also a haven of Flora and Fauna and you will occasionally find Tracks of herbivores or spot Giraffes, Buffaloes, zebras, Gazelles and other antelopes Grazing gracefully in park, giving you a round-up experience.
Lovers of sleeping under the stars will have their desires fulfilled as there is a campsite few meters from the park gates with the major camping essentials.
Good news from the park is its now plastic free and you will have to confirm you dont have any plastic water bottle or any plastic bag with you before entry.
The park entrance fees to Mt Longonot are as follows KSH 250 Kenyan Citizens, USD 20 Non Resident.