Longonot National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Nakuru County, Kenya

Longonot National Park

Longonot National Park is renowned for its stunning volcanic landscapes dominated by Mount Longonot, offering thrilling hiking opportunities and panoramic views over the Great Rift Valley.

National Park13,0002+ Trails
DesignationNational Park
Total Wilderness Area13,000
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Longonot National Park

Longonot National Park is renowned for its stunning volcanic landscapes dominated by Mount Longonot, offering thrilling hiking opportunities and panoramic views over the Great Rift Valley.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Longonot National Park, situated in Nakuru County, Kenya, is a compelling destination for outdoor enthusiasts, largely due to its prominent geological feature, Mount Longonot. This stratovolcano stands at 9,108 feet (2,776 meters) and is characterized by a large crater at its summit, a habitat for various forms of wildlife including buffaloes, baboons, and plains game. The park covers an area of approximately 13,000 acres and provides a unique blend of semi-arid ecological zone and dense forestation around the crater rim. Established in 1983, it is a relatively young park but rich in attractions for hiking, bird watching, and photography. Visitors are drawn to its main trail that ascends the mountain, giving access to the crater rim and spectacular views of the Great Rift Valley. With its trails ranging from moderate to challenging, the park caters to adventurers looking to immerse themselves in raw nature while experiencing the ecological diversity that the volcanic landscape supports.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Longonot National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Mount Longonot Crater Rim Trail for panoramic views✦ Unique volcanic landscapes and geothermal features✦ Opportunities to observe wildlife such as zebra and giraffe✦ The breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Longonot National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Longonot National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Longonot National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Longonot National Park
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Longonot National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Longonot National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fee required; permits can be purchased at the park gate.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Longonot National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Longonot National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Naivasha, Kenya
⌖ 13.21 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Naivasha, Kenya

Naivasha is a premier destination for adventure seekers looking to experience hiking, boating, and wildlife in the dazzling Great Rift Valley. With activities ranging from rock climbing to birding, Naivasha promises outdoor fun for everyone.

June to September
Explore Town
Limuru, Kenya
⌖ 18.83 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Limuru, Kenya

Limuru offers cool highland air, rolling tea plantations, and peaceful forest trails ideal for hiking, biking, and bird watching. It’s a quiet nature retreat just outside Nairobi, perfect for outdoor lovers seeking scenic variety and fresh air.

June to September
Explore Town
Kiambu, Kenya
⌖ 31.32 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kiambu, Kenya

Kiambu, near Nairobi in Kenya’s central highlands, offers easy access to gentle hiking, bird watching, and cultural experiences amidst lush coffee farms and forest trails. It’s an ideal spot for travelers seeking outdoor adventure combined with local flavor.

June to September (dry season)
Explore Town
Nairobi, Kenya
⌖ 35.79 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Nairobi, Kenya

Nairobi, Kenya blends vibrant city life with extraordinary wildlife experiences nearby. Enjoy a safari, stroll through urban forests, or hike the scenic hills just beyond the city's reach.

June to October
Explore Town
Narok, Kenya
⌖ 42.21 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Narok, Kenya

Narok is your gateway to the Maasai Mara's unrivaled wildlife and cultural treasures. Enjoy safaris, cultural tours, and more in this vibrant region of Kenya.

July to October
Explore Town
Nyeri, Kenya
⌖ 47.88 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Nyeri, Kenya

Nyeri, Kenya is a central highland town offering easy access to Mount Kenya and Aberdare National Park. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike, bike, bird watch, and enjoy wildlife safaris amid lush landscapes and rich local culture.

January to March and July to October
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Longonot National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.