Mount Longonot National Park

Mount Longonot National Park is a breathtaking stratovolcano nestled in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya, Africa. The mountain’s name is derived from the Maasai word Oloonong’ot, which means “mountains of many spurs” or “steep ridges”. With its rich history and unique geological features, it’s no surprise that Mount Longonot is a top destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.The national park is home to a variety of wildlife, including plains zebras, giraffes, Thomson’s gazelles, buffaloes, and hartebeest. The crater floor is covered with a forest of small trees, while steam vents dot the walls of the crater, creating a truly magical atmosphere. It’s no wonder that visitors come from far and wide to experience the beauty and tranquility of Mount Longonot.One of the highlights of Mount Longonot National Park is the 3.1 km trail that runs from the park entrance up to the crater rim. From there, visitors can continue on a 7.2 km loop that encircles the crater. The entire tour, including the gate-around the rim-gate, covers a distance of 13.5 km and takes about 4–5 hours, allowing for necessary rest breaks. Be warned, however, that parts of the trail are heavily eroded and very steep, making for a challenging but exhilarating hike.Geology enthusiasts will also find much to appreciate in Mount Longonot. The mountain is a stratovolcano that contains a large 8 x 12 km caldera formed by vast eruptions of trachytic lava some 21,000 years ago. The current summit cone was developed within the earlier caldera and is capped by a 1.8 km crater. The mountain has several parasitic cones, and effusive lava eruptions occur on the flanks and within the caldera floor. In fact, periodic geodetic activity recorded at Longonot in 2004–2006 demonstrated the presence of active magmatic systems beneath this volcano.If you’re looking to experience the natural beauty and wonder of Kenya, look no further than Mount Longonot National Park. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking to take in the breathtaking views, Mount Longonot is a must-visit destination that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.