2-Day Mt. Longonot and Hell's Gate Adventure from Nairobi

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Ascend Mt. Longonot and walk around the rim of a dormant volcanic crater
• 02 Marvel at the breathtaking Rift Valley views from Mt. Longonot's peak
• 03 Encounter diverse wildlife such as zebras, giraffes, gazelles, and warthogs in Hell's Gate
• 04 Bike or walk through Hell's Gate's dramatic landscapes with towering cliffs and scenic gorges
• 05 Visit natural hot springs and geothermal features in Hell's Gate
• 06 Relax with an optional boat ride on Lake Naivasha or unwind at the Olkaria Geothermal Spa

Dive into Kenya's iconic Rift Valley landscapes on this 2-day hiking adventure through Mt. Longonot and Hell's Gate National Parks. Experience the thrill of hiking up a dormant volcano, traversing its stunning crater rim, and biking through Hell's Gate's towering cliffs and serene gorges. From panoramic views at the top of Mt. Longonot to geothermal wonders and wildlife encounters in Hell's Gate, this journey offers a perfect mix of adventure, nature, and relaxation.

Experience the thrill of hiking up a dormant volcano, traversing its stunning crater rim, and biking through Hell's Gate's towering cliffs and serene gorges.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 2 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Budget

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Eldoret, Naivasha, Nairobi, Hell's Gate National Park, Mount Longonot

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Nairobi to Mt. Longonot and Naivasha

• Morning
  • 6:30 am: Depart from Nairobi or a nearby location, heading towards Mt. Longonot National Park (approx. 1.5-hour drive).
  • 8:00 am: Arrive at Mt. Longonot National Park. Register at the gate, pay park fees, and prepare for the hike.
  • 8:30 am: Begin the hike up Mt. Longonot, a volcanic mountain with rugged trails. The trail is a 7.2 km round trip, taking about 4-5 hours.
  • First section: Moderate ascent through savanna grassland, leading to the crater rim.
  • Second section: Circumnavigate the crater rim for spectacular views of the crater floor and panoramic views of the Rift Valley.
• Afternoon
  • 12:30 pm: Complete the hike and descend to the base.
  • 1:00 pm: Lunch break at a local restaurant or a packed lunch at the base.
  • 2:30 pm: Relax at your accommodation or explore Naivasha town.
  • Optional: Take a scenic boat ride on Lake Naivasha for hippo sightings and bird-watching.
• Evening
  • 6:00 pm: Settle into your lodge or campsite near Hell's Gate National Park.
  • 7:30 pm: Dinner and overnight stay, preparing for the next day's adventure.

2

Day 02

Hell's Gate Biking or Walking Safari

• Morning
  • 7:00 am: Breakfast at the lodge or camp.
  • 8:00 am: Head to Hell's Gate National Park for a biking or walking safari experience (bikes available for rent at the park entrance).
  • 8:30 am: Start the guided biking tour or hike through Hell's Gate Gorge, passing towering cliffs, volcanic towers, and diverse wildlife such as zebras, giraffes, gazelles, and more.
• Late Morning
  • 10:30 am: Continue exploring the gorges. A guide can lead you to the gorge's hot springs, Devil's Bedroom, and other scenic spots.
  • 12:00 pm: Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the designated spots inside the park.
• Afternoon
  • 1:30 pm: Optionally, visit the nearby Olkaria Geothermal Spa to relax in naturally heated pools.
  • 3:00 pm: Start the return journey to Nairobi.
• Evening
  • 5:30 pm: Arrive back in Nairobi, marking the end of the two-day adventure.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• Transport: Round-trip transport from Nairobi in a comfortable tour van
• Accommodation: 1-night stay in a lodge or campsite near Hell's Gate
• Meals:
  • Day 1: Lunch, dinner
  • Day 2: Breakfast, picnic lunch
• Park fees: Entrance fees for Mt. Longonot and Hell's Gate National Parks
• Guide: Professional hiking and biking guides for both parks
• Activities: Hiking at Mt. Longonot, biking and gorge exploration at Hell's Gate, and an optional Lake Naivasha boat ride
• Safety gear: First-aid kit and emergency equipment

What's Not Included

• Bike rentals: Bike rental fees for Hell's Gate (optional, approx. $10-15 per person)
• Geothermal spa fees: Entry fee for Olkaria Geothermal Spa (optional)
• Personal expenses: Snacks, additional meals outside those included, souvenirs, and gratuities
• Insurance: Personal travel insurance

What to bring

• Hiking essentials: Sturdy hiking shoes, a comfortable backpack, and trekking poles (optional but recommended)
• Clothing: Light layers for daytime, warm clothing for the evening, a hat, and sunglasses
• Hydration: At least 2 litres of water per day
• Snacks: High-energy snacks for the hike, such as granola bars and nuts
• Sun protection: Sunscreen, lip balm, and a hat
• Camera: To capture the stunning views and wildlife
• Personal items: Toiletries, a personal first-aid kit, and any required medication
• Swimwear: If planning to visit the Olkaria Geothermal Spa

Know before you go

• Fitness level: A moderate to high fitness level is required to hike up Mt. Longonot and explore the Hell's Gate gorge.
• Weather: Temperatures can be warm during the day and cool in the evening. Be prepared for changing weather conditions.
• Wildlife caution: While biking or walking through Hell's Gate, maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
• Safety first: Guides are trained in first aid, but following their instructions is essential, especially in steep areas and gorges.
• Respect for nature: Help preserve the park by avoiding littering and staying on designated trails.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Nairobi, Kenya, Eldoret Kenya

Tour start

Nairobi, Kenya

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.