Mount Longonot National Park

Mount Longonot National Park in Kenya is a fascinating geological wonder crowned by Mount Longonot, an extinct stratovolcano that last erupted in the 1800s. The park’s name is derived from the Maasai word ‘Oloonong’ot’, meaning “mountains of many spurs” or “steep ridges” – a reference to the distinctive shape of the volcano. Its slopes are cloaked with forest, which gives way to a patchwork of rock and ash closer to the crater rim. The crater itself, over a kilometer in diameter, is a sanctuary for wildlife and offers breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley and Lake Naivasha. Wildlife here includes herds of zebra, giraffe, and buffalo, as well as a variety of birds like the Verreaux’s eagle which nests on the craggy cliffs.

Safari activities in Mount Longonot National Park center around the trekking experiences that lead adventurous spirits to the top of the mountain. The hike to the crater rim is both challenging and rewarding, with the path winding through thickets of forest and onto open trails with expansive views. Once at the summit, hikers can circumnavigate the crater, a journey that showcases the volcano’s magnitude and offers spectacular panoramic views. For those looking for less strenuous activities, the park also supports game viewing and bird watching, particularly rewarding in the early morning or late afternoon when the temperatures are cooler and the animals more active. The park is a day-trip destination from Nairobi, making it an excellent option for those wanting to combine a taste of Kenyan wildlife with a touch of adventure without venturing too far from the capital.