How to Plan Your Day Tour to Mount Longonot Park from Nairobi
If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure in Kenya, then look no further than the Mount Longonot National Park day tour. It is a perfect opportunity that allows you to explore the scenic beauty of the Rift Valley while hiking up a dormant volcano. The tour also includes a boat ride on Lake Naivasha and observing the stunning views from the Great Rift Valley viewpoint. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your memorable day tour.
Experience
The Mount Longonot National Park day tour offers an adventurous experience for nature lovers and hikers. You’ll get to enjoy the picturesque views of the Rift Valley from different points and admire the natural beauty of the area. The hike up to the dormant volcano requires medium physical fitness, so ensure you’re adequately prepared for it. You’ll also get to enjoy a refreshing boat ride on Lake Naivasha and discover the different bird species that inhabit the lake. It’s an experience you can’t afford to miss.
Highlights
Here are some of the main highlights you can expect on the Mount Longonot National Park day tour:
- The Great Rift Valley Viewpoint: You’ll make a scheduled stop at the Great Rift Valley view point, where you’ll see stunning views of the valley, including the volcanic Mt Suswa and Mt Longonot
- Hike up Mount Longonot: The hike requires medium physical fitness and will take you through the gulleys that dot the sides of this mountain. You’ll make rest stops at designated places along the trek, and once you reach the summit, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the crater and its surroundings.
- Boat ride: You’ll also get to enjoy a soothing boat ride on Lake Naivasha, where you’ll see various bird species and other wildlife that inhabit this serene freshwater lake.
- Rift Valley Scenic Views: During the tour, you’ll get to observe the Rift Valley’s scenic beauty from different viewpoints while learning the area’s history and significance.
Full Description
The tour starts with a pickup at your hotel in Nairobi in the morning. You’ll then head towards Mt Longonot National Park via the Kikuyu lush green highlands. On your way, you’ll make a scheduled stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint. The viewpoint offers panoramic views of the Rift Valley, including Mt. Suswa and Mt. Longonot, which are visible from the view point.
Once you arrive at Mt Longonot National Park, you’ll start your hike up to the crater. The hike requires light to medium physical fitness, and it’ll take you through the gulleys that dot the mountain’s sides. You’ll make rest stops at designated places along the trek, allowing you to catch your breath and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Once you reach the summit, you’ll get to admire the stunning panoramic views of the crater and its surroundings. From the top, you can also decide to hike around the crater rim (which requires extra physical fitness), or you can head back down the mountain to meet your guide.
After your hike, you’ll head to Lake Naivasha, where you’ll enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Kenya’s second-largest freshwater lake. The boat ride is relaxing and offers a chance to spot various bird species and other wildlife that reside in the area.
Later in the day, you’ll head back to Nairobi and arrive in the late afternoon.
How to Book Your Tour
Booking your Mount Longonot National Park day tour is easy. Visit the tours booking page, select your preferred date, enter the number of participants, and proceed to payment. If you have any questions or concerns, the tour operator is available to assist you.
Conclusion
The Mount Longonot National Park day tour from Nairobi is an excellent opportunity for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. The tour includes a visit to the Great Rift Valley viewpoint, hike up to the dormant volcano, and a boat ride on Lake Naivasha. If you’re planning a trip to Kenya, this tour is worth considering. With proper planning, you’ll have an adventurous and memorable day.
An Insider’s Guide to Nairobi – Hidden Gems, Food Culture, Cultural Experiences, Local History and Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions
As Kenya’s capital and largest city, Nairobi is one of the most vibrant and exciting places to explore in Africa. The city, referred to as the “Green City in the Sun,” offers a vast range of activities for tourists to explore. Beyond the usual tourist spots, there are a plethora of hidden gems that only residents know about. This insider’s guide will help you discover the hidden gems, food culture, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions in Nairobi.
Local Attractions: Explore Hidden Gems in Nairobi
While Nairobi is known for its wildlife and national parks, it has some other hidden gems that you cannot afford to miss. One of the most popular of these is the Railway Museum. The museum was opened in 1971 and has an extensive collection of locomotives and wagons, including the first steam locomotive used by British East Africa Railways in 1901.
Another hidden gem is Uhuru Gardens Memorial Park. The park is a tribute to Kenya’s freedom fighters and is a great place to spend the day relaxing or having a picnic. The park also features a statue of the first president of Kenya, Jomo Kenyatta.
If you want a unique experience, visit Karura Forest. This forest boasts more than 600 different animal species, including monkeys, bushbucks, and a variety of bird species. While you are in Karura, take a bike ride through the forest and experience nature in the heart of the city.
Dining Spots: Discover Nairobi’s Food Culture
Nairobi’s food culture is a blend of various cuisines from different African and international cultures. The city is home to some of the best food markets, restaurants, and street food vendors. To experience Nairobi’s cuisine, make sure to visit the Mama Oliech restaurant. Known for its Nyama Choma (roast meats), Mama Oliech’s is a must-visit place that should be on every traveler’s list.
Another great place to experience Nairobi’s food culture is Wakulima Market. Here, you will find a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, and local food. Be sure to try out the Ugali and Sukuma Wiki, a popular local dish made from cornmeal and collard greens.
Beyond food, Nairobi also offers some of the best coffee shops, including Java House and Artcaffe. These coffee shops serve freshly brewed coffee that will leave you yearning for more.
Cultural Experiences: Experience Nairobi’s Traditions
Nairobi celebrates its rich culture through music, festivals, and art. If you are looking for cultural experiences in Nairobi, head to the Maasai Market. This open-air market is held weekly and is visited by locals and tourists alike. The market has a range of arts and crafts, jewelry, souvenirs, and clothing.
If you happen to be in Nairobi during the August month, be sure to attend the Lamu Cultural Festival. The festival showcases the traditional dances, foods, and customs of the Swahili people. Experience dhow races, henna painting, and a grand donkey race.
Local History: Discover Nairobi’s Memorable Past
Nairobi has a rich past that dates back to precolonial times. One of the best places to learn about the city’s history is The National Museum of Kenya. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts, including prehistoric fossils, which date back millions of years.
Another historical site is the Karen Blixen Museum. It is famously known for being the house and farm where the Danish author, Karen Blixen, lived and wrote her book ‘Out of Africa’. The site will give you a profound insight into the past life and history of Nairobi.
Off the Beaten Path Suggestions: Adventure Beyond the Conventional
Nairobi is full of surprises, and the best way to connect with the city is to venture past the beaten path. If you are interested in a unique experience, visit the Ngong Hills. Located just half an hour from central Nairobi, the hills have a magnificent view of the Rift Valley and Nairobi’s skyline.
Another top off-the-beaten-path suggestion is to visit the Kitengela Glass Factory. These cute shops filled with passionate glass artists are a hidden gem and worth a visit. See how these artists create intricate glass designs using recycled glass.
Conclusion
Nairobi has a lot to offer, with hidden gems, rich food culture, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions. While visiting, be sure to open your mind and heart to experience the city’s vibrancy, hospitality, and diversity. By exploring beyond the tourist spots, you’ll be able to experience the real Nairobi and come away with unforgettable memories.
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