Mount Longonot National Park

Mount Longonot National Park is a protected area in Kenya.

Mount Longonot National Park at a Glance

Location
Rift Valley Lakes, Kenya, East Africa
Coordinates
-0.931872, 36.453160
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Busy
Malaria Risk
Low
Best Time to Visit
July to October for the Great Migration in the Mara. January to February for dry season wildlife. Avoid long rains (April–May).

Getting to Mount Longonot National Park

Nearest airport: Unknown Airport, 15 km away.

Nearest international airport: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), 68 km away.

Big Five in Mount Longonot National Park

1 of the Big Five can be found here: African Buffalo.

Weather & Climate in Mount Longonot National Park

The warmest temperatures in Mount Longonot National Park occur in March, averaging 16.3°C (up to 22.6°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 13.1°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 35.4mm. Average humidity: 77.6%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 15.2°C (rainfall: 107.1mm)
  • February: 16.1°C (rainfall: 84.0mm)
  • March: 16.3°C (rainfall: 97.5mm)
  • April: 15.3°C (rainfall: 191.9mm)
  • May: 14.8°C (rainfall: 125.4mm)
  • June: 13.6°C (rainfall: 41.0mm)
  • July: 13.1°C (rainfall: 35.4mm)
  • August: 13.8°C (rainfall: 43.5mm)
  • September: 14.5°C (rainfall: 83.7mm)
  • October: 15.5°C (rainfall: 67.9mm)
  • November: 15.0°C (rainfall: 125.1mm)
  • December: 15.2°C (rainfall: 77.8mm)

Best Time to Visit Mount Longonot National Park

The best months to visit Mount Longonot National Park are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 15.22°C, rainfall 107.1mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 71.8%
  • February: Good, temperature 16.08°C, rainfall 84mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 67.4%
  • March: Good, temperature 16.29°C, rainfall 97.5mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 68.3%
  • April: Good, temperature 15.29°C, rainfall 191.9mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 79.8%
  • May: Good, temperature 14.76°C, rainfall 125.4mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 80.7%
  • June: Good, temperature 13.63°C, rainfall 41mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 78.5%
  • July: Good, temperature 13.09°C, rainfall 35.4mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 77.6%
  • August: Good, temperature 13.77°C, rainfall 43.5mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 73.9%
  • September: Good, temperature 14.47°C, rainfall 83.7mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 73%
  • October: Good, temperature 15.48°C, rainfall 67.9mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 69.6%
  • November: Good, temperature 15.03°C, rainfall 125.1mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 76.3%
  • December: Good, temperature 15.16°C, rainfall 77.8mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 73.9%

Wildlife in Mount Longonot National Park

Home to 106 recorded species including 38 iconic birds, 33 waterbirds, 20 birds of prey, 5 antelope & gazelle, 4 big herbivores, 3 primates.

Recommended Packing List for Mount Longonot National Park

Based on average temperature of 14.9°C, typical conditions, humidity 74%.

  • Layered clothing - recommended for 15°C temperatures
  • Fleece or warm jacket - essential for cool mornings and evenings
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Mount Longonot National Park

27 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Rift Valley Lakes

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Kenya

Travel advisory for Kenya

Mount Longonot National Park FAQs

What is the main activity at Mount Longonot National Park, and how challenging is it?

The primary draw is hiking to the crater rim of Mount Longonot, offering panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley and Lake Naivasha. The trek is moderately challenging, involving a steep ascent to the rim and then a walk around the crater, typically taking 4-5 hours round trip.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while visiting Mount Longonot, beyond the scenic views?

While primarily known for its volcanic landscape and hiking, Mount Longonot National Park is home to various plains game. Visitors frequently encounter zebras, giraffes, buffalo, and different species of gazelles grazing on the lower slopes and within the crater.

When is the best time to visit Mount Longonot National Park to enjoy the hike and avoid peak crowds?

The dry seasons, from January to March and July to October, offer the most favorable hiking conditions with clear skies and less slippery trails. To mitigate the park's high crowding level, consider visiting on a weekday morning or arriving right at opening time to enjoy a more serene experience.

What are the typical entry fees for Mount Longonot National Park, and are there any additional costs to consider?

Entry fees for non-resident adults are usually around $26 per person, payable at the gate. This fee covers park access for the day, but does not include transport, guide services, or any personal expenses like water or snacks for your hike.

What essential safety precautions and preparations should I take for a visit to Mount Longonot, especially regarding health and the hike?

Given the challenging hike, ensure you wear sturdy hiking shoes, carry plenty of water, and protect yourself from the sun with a hat and sunscreen. While the malaria risk is low, general insect repellent is advisable, and it's wise to inform someone of your hiking plans.

Recommended Books

  • Stuarts' Field Guide to National Parks & Game Reserves of East Africa by Chris & Mathilde Stuart - Park-by-park guide with maps, species lists, and practical information. Perfect for planning which parks to visit and what to expect.
  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Birds of East Africa by Terry Stevenson & John Fanshawe - Covers Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi - 1,388 species illustrated with range maps. The essential birding companion for East African safaris.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Lonely Planet East Africa by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive travel guide covering Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and beyond. Practical information on visas, transport, accommodation, and detailed park guides.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Lonely Planet Kenya by Lonely Planet - In-depth guide to Kenya - Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo, Samburu, and the coast. Detailed maps, accommodation reviews, and practical travel advice.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • A Field Guide to the Reptiles of East Africa by Stephen Spawls, Kim Howell, Harald Hinkel & Michele Menegon - Comprehensive coverage of snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodilians found across East Africa. A niche but appreciated guide for the thorough naturalist.
  • Born Free: A Lioness of Two Worlds by Joy Adamson - The true story of raising Elsa the lioness in Kenya and releasing her back to the wild. The book that started safari tourism culture and inspired generations.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Wildlife of East Africa (Princeton Pocket Guide) by Martin B. Withers & David Hosking - Compact pocket guide covering mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. 500+ colour photographs. The best quick-reference guide to carry on game drives.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • The White Masai by Corinne Hofmann - International bestseller about a Swiss woman who falls in love with a Samburu warrior during a holiday in Kenya. A wild, unforgettable true story of cultural collision. Over 4 million copies sold.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Out of Africa by Isak Dinesen (Karen Blixen) - The quintessential Africa memoir - a poetic and evocative account of life on a coffee plantation in Kenya. The book that defined the romance of East Africa for generations.
  • I Dreamed of Africa by Kuki Gallmann - Classic memoir of an Italian woman's life on a Kenyan ranch - turned into a Hollywood film. A beautiful and heartbreaking love letter to East Africa.
  • West with the Night by Beryl Markham - Aviation adventure memoir set in Kenya - Hemingway called it one of the finest books he had ever read. A unique perspective on colonial East Africa.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.