Hike Mount Longonot and Bike through Hell's Gate: 2-Day Rift Valley Safari from Nairobi

Naivasha•moderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

2 days (approx. 8–10 hours hiking/cycling total)

Fitness Level

Suitable for travelers in good general fitness who can handle sustained uphill hiking and a few hours of cycling or walking on uneven terrain

Overview

Two days of volcanic ridgelines, crater rims and cliff-carved gorges just outside Nairobi. Hike Mount Longonot’s crater loop, sleep under canvas, then bike and walk through Hell’s Gate for close-up Rift Valley scenery and wildlife.

Hike Mount Longonot and Bike through Hell's Gate: 2-Day Rift Valley Safari from Nairobi

Bus Tour

Walking Tour

Hiking

Select participants and date

Date

Thu, Oct 30

Travelers

You start before dawn, the minibus threading out of Nairobi while the Rift Valley light lifts like a hand on the horizon. By the time the camp cook has set a kettle on the coals, Mount Longonot’s black silhouette has resolved into a clear cone above the valley floor. The day’s first climb begins at a steady, steep pitch — the mountain doesn’t ask for finesse, only steady feet and an appetite for rim-to-crater views.

Adventure Photos

Hike Mount Longonot and Bike through Hell's Gate: 2-Day Rift Valley Safari from Nairobi photo 1

Adventure Tips

Start early

Set out before sunrise for cooler temperatures, better wildlife sightings and softer light on the crater rim.

Bring 2–3 L of water

Water is included but carry portable hydration — the ascent is steep and exposed, especially on day one.

Footwear matters

Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction; volcanic scree and uneven limestone in Hell’s Gate can be slippery.

Layer for wind and sun

Temperatures can swing from cool mornings to hot afternoons; a lightweight windbreaker and sun protection are useful.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Zebra
Grant's gazelle

History

Mount Longonot and the surrounding Rift landscape have long been part of Maasai and Kikuyu grazing and travel routes; colonial-era roads later opened the parks to organized tourism.

Conservation

Entrance and camping fees contribute to park management and community programs; stick to trails and avoid feeding wildlife to reduce human-wildlife conflict.