Strenuous · 4 days
Naivasha · Rift Valley
Mount Longonot Rim
Experience one of Kenya’s most iconic hiking adventures with Trail Culture as we take you to the breathtaking Mt. Longonot National Park. Located in the heart of the Great Rift Valley, Mt. Longonot offers a rewarding challenge for both beginner and experienced hikers, combining scenic landscapes, volcanic terrain, and unforgettable panoramic views. The adventure begins with a steady ascent through the volcanic slopes until we reach the summit (top) of Mt. Longonot. From there, the experience becomes even more exciting as we continue around the crater rim, giving hikers the option to go clockwise or anticlockwise depending on the group’s pace and trail conditions. The rim circuit offers spectacular 360° views of the crater, Lake Naivasha, the Rift Valley escarpments, and the surrounding countryside. What to Expect Guided hike to the summit (top) of Mt. Longonot Full crater rim circuit experience Option to explore the rim clockwise or anticlockwise Stunning Rift Valley and Lake Naivasha views Excellent photography opportunities A supportive and energetic Trail Culture hiking community Hike Highlights Destination: Mt. Longonot National Park Activity: Summit hike and crater rim exploration Terrain: Volcanic trails with moderate to challenging sections Experience: Reach the top, then complete the scenic rim walk around the crater Ideal For: Adventure seekers, fitness enthusiasts, nature lovers, and group explorers Join Trail Culture for an unforgettable outdoor experience filled with adventure, connection, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re hiking for fitness, exploration, or the love of nature, Mt. Longonot promises a rewarding journey from the first ascent to the final step around the crater rim. Trail Culture – Explore • Connect • Adventure
Moderate - Day hike
Elevation
2,780 m
Ascent
+839 m
Distance
13 km
Duration
Half day (4–5 hrs)
Best season
Year-round · best in the dry season
Group
Max 15
Overview
Mount Longonot is a dormant volcano rising straight out of the Rift Valley floor. The trail climbs steeply to the crater rim, where a forested caldera drops away beneath you.
From the rim you can loop the full 7 km circuit around the crater — rolling, exposed and spectacular, with Lake Naivasha shining to the north. A big day out that's still doable before lunch.
Highlights
- Steep, rewarding climb to the crater rim
- Full 7 km loop around the caldera
- Views over Lake Naivasha & the Rift
- Forested crater floor far below
The plan
- 6:30 AM
Meet at Longonot Gate
Registration, safety brief and warm-up before the trail.
- 7:00 AM
Ascent to the rim
A steep, steady climb of ~600 m to the crater rim viewpoint.
- 8:30 AM
Crater loop
Circle the full caldera rim — undulating and exposed, with the best views of the day.
- 11:00 AM
Descend & wrap up
Return down to the gate for a well-earned rest.
What's included
- Certified hiking guide
- Park entry & conservation fees
- Optional trailhead transfer from Naivasha town
- Bottled water
- Transport from Nairobi
- Lunch & snacks
- Personal gear
What to carry
Trail shoes with gripSun hat & sunscreen1.5 L waterLight rain layerSnacks
Upcoming departures
🗓 Sat 29th Aug 2026
0 spots left
KES 3300
Your guide
MA
Mohamed Adan
Rift Valley Guide
Certified, first-aid trained and vetted by Trail Culture. Your guide leads the group, sets the pace and handles permits, safety and logistics from the trailhead onward.
Reviews
4.6
★★★★★
176 verified reviews
WN
Wanjiru N.
Absolutely unforgettable. Our guide read the weather perfectly and the camps were far more comfortable than I expected. Strangers at the gate, a real crew by the summit.
BK
Brian K.
Well organised from the M-Pesa booking to the trailhead transfer. Pacing was spot on for acclimatising. Would book again in a heartbeat.
LM
Lena M.
Tough but so worth it. Bring more layers than you think — it gets cold up top. Guides were patient and encouraging the whole way.
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