Mount Longonot National Park Travel Guide

Plan your next trip to Mount Longonot National Park in Kenya with this comprehensive guide featuring the best places to visit, hiking trails, activities, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Mount Longonot National Park

Mount Longonot National Park is a unique and picturesque destination situated in the Southern Rift Valley, in Kenya, East Africa. The park covers an area of approximately 52 km² and boasts of a diverse range of natural and cultural attractions that are sure to excite visitors of all ages and interests. The park is named after Mount Longonot, a dormant volcano with a prominent peak that rises to 2,776 meters above sea level. Mount Longonot last erupted in the 1860s and has since then been designated as a national park. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best places to visit, hiking trails, activities, accommodations, and more in Mount Longonot National Park.

List of Places to Visit in Mount Longonot National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kabarnet Museum: This museum showcases the cultural heritage and traditions of the Kalenjin people, who are the indigenous inhabitants of the region.
  • Kiptagich School Museum: This museum is a replica of the first school that was established by Christian missionaries in the 19th century.
  • The Great Rift Valley Viewpoint: This viewpoint offers panoramic views of the vast Rift Valley and the surrounding landscapes.

Natural Attractions of Mount Longonot National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Longonot: This iconic mountain is the main attraction in the park and offers a challenging hiking experience for adventure seekers.
  • Crater Lake: This is a breathtaking volcanic crater lake that is easily accessible by foot. Visitors can swim or take a relaxing boat ride around the crater lake.
  • The Hell’s Gate Gorge: This is a narrow canyon that cuts through the cliffs and offers a unique hiking experience for visitors.
  • The Ol Karia Geothermal Spa: This natural spa features hot springs and geysers that are believed to have therapeutic properties.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mount Longonot National Park

There are various hiking and biking trails in the park that cater to different fitness levels and personal preferences. The most popular hiking and biking trails are:

  • The Longonot summit hike: This is a challenging hike that takes around 5 hours to complete. The trail covers a distance of 8 kilometers and offers breathtaking views of the Rift Valley and the surrounding landscapes.
  • The Crater Rim hike: This trail covers a distance of 7 kilometers and takes around 3-4 hours to complete. The trail offers stunning views of the crater lake and the surrounding fauna and flora.
  • Biking trails: There are various biking trails in the park that cater to all levels of experience. Visitors can rent a bike from the park’s headquarters or bring their own bikes.

Best Things to Do in Mount Longonot National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Hiking to the summit of Mount Longonot
  • Biking around the park
  • Wildlife watching
  • Bird watching
  • Boat rides around the Crater Lake
  • Visiting the cultural museums and historical sites
  • Soaking in the Ol Karia Geothermal Spa

Week-Long Itinerary for Mount Longonot National Park

Day 1: Arrival and check-in at a hotel or guesthouse near the park.

Day 2: Hiking to the summit of Mount Longonot.

Day 3: Biking around the park and visiting the Crater Lake.

Day 4: Visiting the cultural museums and historical sites.

Day 5: Wildlife watching and bird watching.

Day 6: Soaking in the Ol Karia Geothermal Spa.

Day 7: Departure from Mount Longonot National Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Mount Longonot National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ugali: This is a popular Kenyan staple made from maize flour and water. It is often served with stew or vegetables.
  • Nyama choma: This is grilled meat that is served with traditional side dishes such as ugali, sukuma wiki, and kachumbari.
  • Pilau: This is a flavorful dish made from rice, meat, and spices. It is often served during special occasions.

Local Beverages

  • Chai: This is a popular tea beverage that is made with milk, tea leaves, and spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger.
  • Tusker beer: This is a popular Kenyan beer that is brewed locally and can be found in most bars and restaurants.

Where to Stay in Mount Longonot National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are various accommodation options near Mount Longonot National Park that cater to different budgets and personal preferences. Some popular options include:

  • Sawela Lodge
  • Crater Lake Tented Camp
  • Enashipai Resort and Spa
  • Naivasha Kongoni Lodge

What to Buy in Mount Longonot National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Maasai beads and jewelry: These colorful beads and jewelry are made by the Maasai people, who are known for their intricate beadwork.
  • Wood carvings: These are hand-carved wooden souvenirs such as masks, statues, and utensils.
  • Kenyan tea and coffee: These are some of the most popular exports from Kenya and make for great souvenirs to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Mount Longonot National Park

The park is home to various indigenous communities such as the Maasai and the Kalenjin. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local customs and traditions, dress modestly, and seek permission before taking photographs of the locals.

Best Time to Visit Mount Longonot National Park

The best time to visit Mount Longonot National Park is during the dry season, which runs from June to October and January to February. Visitors should avoid visiting the park during the rainy season, which runs from March to May and November to December, as the roads can be impassable and some attractions may be closed.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mount Longonot National Park

Do:

  • Follow the park rules and regulations
  • Carry enough water and snacks for your hike
  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes and clothing
  • Respect the local customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment
  • Feed the animals or disturb their habitats
  • Stray from the designated hiking trails
  • Ignore the park’s safety warnings and signs

Safety and Health

Safety in Mount Longonot National Park

The park is generally safe for visitors, but it is important to take the necessary precautions when exploring the park. Visitors should:

  • Remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings at all times
  • Avoid walking alone in isolated areas
  • Stay on the designated hiking trails
  • Carry a cellphone with them at all times

Health in Mount Longonot National Park

Visitors should take the necessary measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites and bring along mosquito repellent and long-sleeved clothing. It is also advisable to carry a first-aid kit with basic medical supplies such as bandages, antiseptics, and painkillers.

Getting to Mount Longonot National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mount Longonot National Park

  • Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi
  • Eldoret International Airport, Eldoret

Bus Stations Near Mount Longonot National Park

  • Nairobi Bus Station
  • Nakuru Bus Station

Other Options

Visitors can also choose to hire a private car or taxi to get to the park.

How to Get Around in Mount Longonot National Park

The park is easily navigable by foot, but visitors can also choose to rent a bike from the park’s headquarters or bring their own bikes.

Where to Go Next from Mount Longonot National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Lake Naivasha
  • Hell’s Gate National Park
  • Aberdare National Park

Conclusion

Mount Longonot National Park is a unique and beautiful destination that offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and scenic views. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can plan their trip to the park with ease and have an unforgettable experience.