Mount Longonot Hike: Crater Rim Walk Near Lake Naivasha

The mountain rises from the floor of the Rift Valley and is protected as a national park. A trail leads from the park gate across grassland and up a steep slope to the rim, from which hikers can look down into a crater filled with forest.

It is a demanding but achievable day hike for reasonably fit visitors. This guide covers what the trail is like, the safety points, what to bring and how to combine it with other sights nearby.

This guide is part of our Uganda park trails and activities guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

The Mountain

Mount Longonot is a volcano whose crater is surrounded by a rim and a forested floor. The surrounding slopes are covered in grass and scrub, and the summit area offers views over the Rift Valley and Lake Naivasha. The mountain lies in a national park, so entry rules and ranger arrangements apply. Check current requirements with your operator and the park authority before you go. See Lake Naivasha and Hell's Gate for nearby parks.

The Trail

From the park gate, the path crosses open ground before turning steeply uphill on loose volcanic soil and stones. The ascent is the hardest part, and the rim is reached after a sustained climb. Hikers can walk the rim circuit, with wide views and exposed sections, or turn back at the first viewpoint. Descent is easier on the legs but can be slippery. Total time depends on fitness and how far you go, and most visitors plan around half a day.

Fitness and Safety

The climb is steep and sun-exposed, so reasonable fitness is needed. Start early to avoid the heat, carry plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes with grip. Dust and loose stones make the path slippery in places. Wildlife such as buffalo can occur on the slopes, so follow ranger advice. Stay on the path, do not enter the crater without permission and avoid hiking in thunderstorms. Safety cannot be guaranteed.

What to Bring

Bring water, snacks, a hat, sunscreen, a light rain jacket and sturdy footwear. A small day pack and a camera are useful. Trekking poles can help on the descent. A scarf or buff helps with dust. See the East Africa packing list for general kit and Mount Kenya day hikes for other hiking ideas.

Wildlife and Scenery

The park supports grassland animals such as zebra, giraffe and antelope on the lower slopes, and the crater forest hosts birds and monkeys. Sightings vary, so treat them as a bonus. The best views come on clear mornings, when the rim shows lake and plain. Birders may enjoy the mix of habitats; see Lake Naivasha birding.

Best Time to Hike

Dry periods give firmer trails and clearer views, while rain makes the slopes slippery and the visibility poor. Mornings are cooler and calmer. See Naivasha and Hell's Gate best time for seasonal patterns. Patterns vary from year to year.

Combining Longonot With Naivasha

Longonot fits neatly into a Naivasha stay: hike in the morning, then relax by the lake, cycle in Hell's Gate or take a boat trip. See cycling in Hell's Gate, boat safaris on Lake Naivasha, where to stay at Lake Naivasha and Nairobi to Lake Naivasha. It also suits a weekend from the capital; see weekend getaways from Nairobi.

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Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team