Mount Longonot gets its name from its physical features - the Maasai word oloonong'ot, meaning "mountains of many spurs" or "steep ridges".
Mount Longonot National Park is one of the many fascinating, yet least visited, attractions of Kenya. Located in the Lake Naivasha region it is dominated by Mount Longonot itself. This stratovolcano, last thought to have erupted in the 1860's, is 2776 m above sea level.
There are no lodge accommodation facilities in the park itself but Naivasha town and surrounds has a range of options. Mount Longonot National Park is also easily accessible from Nairobi (90 Kms)on a tarmac road.
The main attractions of the park include the extinct volcano and crater forest and the views of Lake Naivasha and the Great Rift Valley. It is also a great destination for birding - and in particular birds of prey.
While staying at Lake Naivasha and surrounds a day trip can be arranged to climb Mount Longonot. The climb is strenuous and you must be in good fitness and health to take on the climb. The whole walk is only about 8–9 km long but is very steep. The round trip from the park entrance gate to the Longonot peak and back takes around 5 hours of hiking.
As you heave yourself over the rim of the Longonot crater you are rewarded with the awesome sight of Naivasha and the Great Rift Valley. The park entrance fee is payable direct and picnic lunches can be arranged.