Nairobi: Full-Day Mount Longonot Hike with Boat Tour – How to Plan Your Tour in Nakuru County
Are you an adventure lover looking for an exhilarating experience in Nakuru County, Kenya? If yes, then the Full-Day Mount Longonot Hike with Boat Tour is the perfect choice for you. This tour takes you on a moderate hike to the top of Mount Longonot, followed by a scenic boat ride at Lake Naivasha. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your trip for this adventure.Experience
The Full-Day Mount Longonot Hike with Boat Tour is a small-group tour that takes you on a journey to one of the most scenic locations in Nakuru County. You will get to experience the thrill of hiking to the top of Mount Longonot while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. An experienced local guide will lead you on this adventure and provide you with interesting insights on the local flora and fauna. The boat ride at Lake Naivasha is a perfect way to end the day, allowing you the opportunity to relax and take in the spectacular views of the lake and its inhabitants.Highlights
Here are some of the highlights of the Full-Day Mount Longonot Hike with Boat Tour:Mount Longonot Hike
The hike to the summit of Mount Longonot is a highlight of this tour. You will start your journey early to avoid the heat of the sun, and the slow gentle rise of the first peak will help you get your lungs and limbs freed up for the more challenging second section. You will enjoy multiple scenic rest stops along the way, making it a comfortable hike for most levels of fitness.Lake Naivasha Boat Ride
After the hike, you will get to enjoy a relaxing boat ride at Lake Naivasha, with local hippos being the star of the show. This is a perfect opportunity to grab a tasty lakeside lunch, take in the views and relax after the hike.How to Plan Your Tour
Planning your tour for the Full-Day Mount Longonot Hike with Boat Tour is easy. Here are the steps you need to follow:Step 1: Book the Tour
The first step to planning your tour is to book it through GetYourGuide, the online tour operator. You can use the following link to book the tour: book the tour here. The cost of the tour includes transport to and from your Nairobi hotel/residence, the guide fee, and park entry fees.Step 2: Prepare for the Tour
To prepare for the tour, ensure you have all the necessary gear. The tour company recommends that you wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. The hike is moderately strenuous, so it is advisable to be in reasonable physical fitness.Step 3: Meet Your Guide
Your local guide will pick you up from your Nairobi hotel/residence at 6:00 AM, so ensure you are ready to go at the designated time. The drive to Mount Longonot takes about an hour.Step 4: Hike up Mount Longonot
Once you arrive at Mount Longonot, your guide will lead you on a moderate hike to the summit. The hike is approximately 8 kilometers round trip and takes about 4 hours, including stops for rest and photos. At the end of the hike, you will be picked up and taken to Lake Naivasha for the boat ride portion of the tour.Step 5: Enjoy Lake Naivasha Boat Ride
Once you arrive at Lake Naivasha, you will take a leisurely boat ride where you can enjoy scenic views and watch the local hippos. The boat ride is approximately 1 hour, after which you’ll have the chance to grab lunch and relax on the shores of the lake.Book Your Tour Now
The Full-Day Mount Longonot Hike with Boat Tour is a fantastic way to spend a day in Nakuru County, Kenya. You will get to experience the thrill of hiking to the summit of Mount Longonot, followed by a relaxing boat ride at Lake Naivasha. By following our guide on how to plan your tour, you can ensure that your experience is smooth and enjoyable. Don’t miss out on this thrilling adventure, book your tour today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Nakuru County
Nakuru County is a county in Kenya that is located in the Rift Valley region. The county is home to many tourist attractions, such as Lake Nakuru National Park and Menengai Crater. In this FAQ, we will answer some of the most commonly asked questions about Nakuru County.1. What are the main tourist attractions in Nakuru County?
There are several tourist attractions in Nakuru County, including:- Lake Nakuru National Park – famous for its large flamingo population and rhinos
- Masai Mara National Reserve – home to the wildebeest migration and the Big Five
- Hell’s Gate National Park – known for its geothermal activity and rock climbing opportunities
- Mt. Longonot National Park – a popular hiking destination
- Mwea National Reserve – a birdwatcher’s paradise
- Menengai Crater – one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world
2. What is the climate like in Nakuru County?
Nakuru County has a temperate climate, with temperatures generally ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. The rainy season runs from March to May and October to December, while the dry season runs from June to September and January to February. The weather can be quite unpredictable, so it is recommended to pack for both warm and cool weather.3. What is the culture like in Nakuru County?
Nakuru County is home to various ethnic groups, including the Kikuyu, Kalenjin, Maasai, and Luo. These groups have their own unique cultures and traditions, which can be seen in their music, dance, and clothing. Visitors can experience the local culture by attending cultural festivals or visiting local villages.4. What is the cuisine like in Nakuru County?
Nakuru County has a diverse food culture, with many traditional dishes from different ethnic groups. Some popular dishes include:- Ugali – a maize-based dish that is a staple in Kenyan cuisine
- Nyama Choma – grilled meat, usually goat or beef, served with ugali and vegetables
- Kachumbari – a tomato and onion salad that is often served as a side dish
- Mukimo – a mashed potato dish that is mixed with beans and maize
- Chapati – a flatbread that is similar to Indian roti
5. How do I get to Nakuru County?
Nakuru County is easily accessible by road and air. The county is located approximately 160 km from Nairobi, and the journey takes around 3 hours by road. Visitors can also fly to Nakuru Airport, which is located approximately 10 km from the city center. There are several flights daily between Nairobi and Nakuru.6. What are the best accommodations in Nakuru County?
Nakuru County has a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the best options include:- Sarova Woodlands Hotel and Spa – a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Nakuru
- Lake Nakuru Lodge – a budget-friendly lodge located within Lake Nakuru National Park
- Flamingo Hill Tented Camp – a tented camp that offers stunning views of Lake Nakuru
- Kivu Resort – a family-friendly resort that offers a range of activities, such as swimming and boat rides on Lake Naivasha
- Punda Milias Camp – a tented camp that offers a true African bush experience
7. Is Nakuru County safe for tourists?
Nakuru County is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should take the usual precautions to ensure their safety. This includes avoiding walking alone at night, not carrying large sums of cash, and being aware of their surroundings at all times. Visitors should also be aware of the wildlife in the area and follow park regulations when visiting national parks and game reserves.8. What should I pack for a trip to Nakuru County?
Visitors to Nakuru County should pack for both warm and cool weather, as the weather can be unpredictable. Some essential items to pack include:- Comfortable shoes for walking and hiking
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- A hat and sunglasses
- Lightweight clothing for warm weather
- Warm clothing for cool weather
- A camera and binoculars for wildlife viewing
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Nakuru County
Are you planning a trip to Nakuru County and wondering what to do during your stay? As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kenya, Nakuru County has a lot to offer, from the stunning landscapes to the rich culture and history. Here’s a guide to help you plan your itinerary and make the most of your time in Nakuru County.Explore Lake Nakuru National Park
Lake Nakuru is the star attraction in Nakuru County, and a visit to the Lake Nakuru National Park is a must for any tourist. The park is known for its large population of pink flamingos, which gives the lake its pinkish hue. Apart from the flamingos, the park is home to other wildlife, including rhinos, lions, buffaloes, and giraffes. The best time to visit the park is during the dry season (July to October), when the animals congregate around the lake.Game Drives and Safaris
A game drive or safari is the best way to explore the Lake Nakuru National Park. You can opt for a guided tour or drive yourself around the park. Be sure to carry a camera to capture the wildlife and the stunning scenery. It’s important to note that the park is a conservation area, and there are strict rules against disturbing the animals and littering.Nature Walks and Hiking
If you prefer a more active way to explore the park, you can take a nature walk or hike around the park. The park has several trails that lead to viewpoints and picnic sites. You can also opt for a guided walk, where a guide will take you through the park and explain the flora and fauna.Visit Lake Bogoria
Lake Bogoria is another spectacular lake in Nakuru County, known for its hot springs and geysers. The lake is also home to thousands of flamingos and other bird species. The best time to visit the lake is in the morning when the flamingos are more active.Hot Springs and Geysers
The hot springs and geysers are the main attraction in Lake Bogoria. You can take a tour of the hot springs and watch as the geysers shoot up boiling water and steam. It’s important to note that the water in the hot springs is extremely hot and can cause burns if not careful.Birdwatching
Lake Bogoria is also a haven for bird watchers, with over 200 bird species recorded in the area. Apart from the flamingos, you can spot lesser flamingos, pelicans, herons, and storks. You can take a guided tour or go bird watching on your own.Experience the Culture and History of Nakuru County
Nakuru County is home to several communities, each with its unique culture and traditions. A visit to the county is not complete without experiencing the local culture and history.Museum and Historical Sites
The Menengai Crater is a popular tourist attraction in Nakuru County, known for its stunning views and rich history. The crater is believed to have been formed over 200,000 years ago and has played a significant role in the history and culture of the local communities. You can also visit the Hyrax Hill Museum and the Lord Egerton Castle, which offer insight into the pre-colonial and colonial history of the region.Traditional Dances and Festivals
You can also experience the local culture through traditional dances and festivals. The Maasai Mara Cultural Festival held annually is a colorful event that brings together different communities to showcase their dances, music, and dress styles. Other festivals include the Harvest Festival and the Rhino Charge.Relaxation and Recreation
Nakuru County is not all about wildlife and culture. The county has several relaxation spots and recreational facilities where you can unwind and have fun.Spas and Wellness Centers
If you’re looking for a spa or wellness center, there are several options to choose from in Nakuru County. The Enashipai Resort and Spa and the Lake Naivasha Country Club are some of the popular spas in the county.Water Sports and Activities
There are also several water sports and activities available in the county, including boat riding, canoeing, and fishing. Lake Naivasha is the most popular spot for water activities, with several companies offering boat tours and rentals.Golfing
Golfers can also enjoy a round of golf at the Great Rift Valley Lodge and Golf Resort, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.Book Your Tour Now
Nakuru County is a must-visit destination for any tourist. With its diverse attractions, rich culture, and stunning landscapes, the county has something for everyone. Be sure to plan your itinerary well and make the most of your time in Nakuru County. Don’t forget to carry a camera, comfortable shoes, and a water bottle. Happy travels!Table of Contents
