
Where can I hike around Nairobi?
Where can I hike around Nairobi? Kenya has a growing number of hikers, and for good reason this is because in addition to offering some of the best Kenya wildlife safaris in Africa, the country boasts great hiking paths that span from strenuous mountain climbs to stunning wide-moor hikes. kenya have a lot of hiking options that will perfectly fit their preferences, their levels of fitness and experience. Whether you’re looking for a more difficult hike or simply a place have a leisurely walk, Kenya has everything you wish for. New hikers who wish to discover new pathways and seasoned hikers who want to revisit their favourite spots should use this guide. It displays a number of hiking trails that may be reached in a few hours from Nairobi.
Mount Longonot
This extinct volcano, which rises to 2,776 metres above sea level in the Great Rift valley southeast of Lake Naivasha, is a popular destination for hiking groups from Nairobi. The rather tough Mount Longonot walk is entirely doable for those with a reasonable degree of fitness. The 3.1 kilometre trail up the mountain from the gate to the crater rim takes 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on one’s speed. You can descend or continue climbing for 7.2 km around the crater after you reach the edge. A stroll around the rim takes two to three hours. It takes four to six hours on average to walk up Mount Longonot. Children and more seasoned hikers alike may find the Mount Longonot walk to be a fun challenge.
It is one of Kenya’s most popular hiking routes, encircling Nairobi. Like Mount Longonot, trekking routes up Sleeping Warrior and Mt. Suswa in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley are great options. Plan a camping trip if you want to get the most out of your hike on Mount Suswa. This will enable you have plenty of time to visit the large crater and the baboon parliament. Lake Elementaita is in close proximity to both the Ugali Hills and Sleeping Warrior hiking routes. Before the journey, a little walk along the beach. If you intend to use this trail, make every effort to start the trek early in the morning before the sun gets too hot. Remember to bring sunscreen and a sunhat as well!
Elephant Hill
Elephant Hill is a popular choice for hikers who want to get acclimatised to higher altitudes or conquer more challenging terrain. The 9-kilometer Elephant Hill hiking trail begins at the Njabini Forest Station entrance and ends at the peak, which is 3,658 metres above sea level. The first several km are on a modest incline through farmed woods. The trail becomes steeper and more muddy after reaching the “point of despair” and going through the bamboo grove, levelling off just beyond “the tail.” Elephant Hill summit offers the greatest views of the Aberdare range, including Mt. Kinangop peak, Sasumwa Dam, and Ndakaini Dam. It takes seven to 10 hours of really hard climbing to complete the Elephant Hill walk.
Ngong Hills

Another popular hiking track in Kenya near Nairobi is Ngong Hills, which is around 30 km from the city. With a little elevation change and mostly grassland terrain, this walk is suitable enough for beginners and virtually anyone looking for a leisurely stroll. The trek offers numerous breathtaking vistas that offer vast views of the city and the neighbouring mountain ranges. These include the kenya safari excursions. The climb up Ngong Hills begins at the northern foot of the hills and continues all the way to the southernmost point at “Kona Baridi.” It takes four to six hours to walk around all seven hills, depending on one’s pace and level of fitness. Because the Ngong Hills are known for having strong, chilly winds, a windproof jacket is required for this hiking adventure in Nairobi.
Kilimambogo
The Kilimambogo trek, which rises to 2,145 metres above sea level, is a fantastic choice for any novice hiker looking for a modest elevation. It is located off the Thika-Garissa Highway in the Oldonyo Sabuk National Park. The starting point is the Ol-Donyo Sabuk National Park entrance gate. Hiking is available in Kilimambogo along two primary routes: a 9km open road that just winds up the mountain, and a 6km track that runs through the forest. Reaching the summit takes two or three hours.
Rurimeria
The first and most challenging hill to climb on the Rurimeria path is the steepest of four distinct ridges (three false peaks). The trail ultimately passes the third false top and then crosses a rather level region of swamp before changing into a stunning steep ascent to the summit. To climb Rurimeria, you need to be in good physical shape and have the appropriate gear, such as high-quality weatherproof clothing and waterproof footwear. If you are not experienced trekking in challenging Kenya, don’t let the steep trails stop you from attempting to tame this beast. Rurimeria is only one of the many hiking trails in Kenya that provide amazing views of the most beautiful landscapes imaginable.
Mount kinangop
Trekking up Mount Kinangop, which rises to 3,906 metres above sea level, is renowned for its difficulty. Kinangop Mountain is the second-highest mountain in the Aberdare Range. The hike is quite demanding and spans 14 kilometres in both directions. Slower walkers may need up to 14 hours, while the average hike takes 7 to 10 hours.
Table mountain
Table Mountain is the Aberdare Range’s fourth-highest peak, behind Rurimeria, Satima, and Kinangop. Table Mountain’s unbearably steep slopes are well-known among Nairobi’s hikers, and you’ll undoubtedly regret your choice of how to go to the trailhead. Starting at Mikeu, the 6.2 km track takes you on a gentle stroll along the forest’s edge. The trail then drops off abruptly to a river crossing. The trail continues for several kilometres before climbing in an unexpectedly steep and almost vertical manner to rejoin the original path. Past this is a final, quick, moderate stroll through the moorland, and then a quick, strenuous climb. The trek ends at the top of Table Mountain, which is 3,792 metres above sea level. Hiking boots with a strong grip and waterproof construction are a must during the rainy season, as rain turns the steep descent muddy and dangerous. Because the moorland becomes wet easily, don’t forget to wear leg protectors.
