Day Trip: Mount Longonot Hike and Lake Naivasha Boat Ride

Water activities Nature & adventure Horse riding Outdoor sports Outdoor activities Tours Day Trips From Guided tours Day trips Cruises & boat tours Sightseeing

Embark on a thrilling adventure combining hiking Mt. Longonot with a serene boat ride on Lake Naivasha. Special option: Unique horseback safari at the foot of Longonot - for beginners & professionals!

Highlights

  • Conquer an Iconic Volcano: Climb Mt. Longonot at 2,776 meters above sea level.
  • Breathtaking vistas of the Great Rift Valley and Lake Naivasha from the crater.
  • Keep your eyes peeled for various animals like buffaloes, zebras, and antelopes.
  • Unwind with a tranquil boat ride on Lake Naivasha - diverse ecosystems!
  • Optional horseback safari: Unique adventure with up-close wildlife sightings!

Description

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Nairobi, heading northwest through the heart of the Kenyan highlands. As you approach the Great Rift Valley, the landscape opens up dramatically. You’ll pause at a stunning viewpoint to take in panoramic vistas stretching across the valley floor—with Mount Longonot rising boldly in the distance and Lake Naivasha glimmering far below. It's the perfect spot for your first photos, as well as a taste of the natural wonders awaiting you. Next, the focus shifts to Mount Longonot itself. The trail begins gently, weaving through sun-dappled acacia woodlands where wildlife often wanders. Keep your eyes open—you might spot buffalo or antelope browsing in the undergrowth, or giraffes silhouetted against the morning light. As you gain altitude, the vegetation thins and the terrain becomes more rugged. Your guide will share insights into the fascinating volcanic environment, pointing out native flora and fauna. Midway up, you'll reach a scenic rest stop—perfect for a picnic lunch (included!!) and panoramic photos. From here, the Rift Valley stretches in all directions, its varied geography creating a stunning contrast with the raw volcanic textures of the mountain. The final push to the crater rim is challenging, but deeply rewarding. At the summit, you're greeted with an awe-inspiring panorama: the vast, forested caldera inside the volcano on one side, and a tapestry of lakes, escarpments, and far-off hills on the other. If you’re up for it, consider trekking around the entire crater rim—a rugged but exhilarating loop offering ever-changing views of the landscape below and the depths of the caldera within. It’s an optional extension for the adventurous, and well worth the effort. After descending the mountain (a fun and occasionally slippery descent over loose volcanic ash), those with a spirit for something extra special can opt for a unique horseback safari at the base of Mount Longonot—a rare opportunity to ride alongside giraffes, zebras, impalas, wildebeests, and hartebeests. Guided and suitable for both beginners and experienced riders, this unforgettable experience offers an intimate connection with the land and its wildlife, all beneath the dramatic shadow of the volcano. After your Mt Longonot adventure a short drive takes you to the shores of Lake Naivasha—a peaceful contrast to the morning’s ascent. As the day softens into afternoon, you’ll step aboard a boat for a tranquil ride across the lake. Glide past pods of hippos, watch for fish eagles diving dramatically into the water, and admire the flocks of pelicans and cormorants that thrive in this freshwater paradise. As the sun dips toward the horizon, casting the sky in brilliant golds and oranges, you’ll understand why this part of Kenya captures the heart of every traveler. From mountain peaks to open plains, horseback trails to boat rides—this is adventure redefined.

Includes

Guided hike to Mt Longonot Services of professional local guide / driver Admission to Lake Naivasha Free rental of binoculars for animal watching / birdwatching Professional photography service Picnic lunch + bottled water Basic first aid kit

Important Information

  • Pick-up details can be discussed via call.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

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