6:00 am: Nairobi to the Great Rift Valley
Begin your adventure with a departure from Nairobi, driving towards Mount Longonot National Park. The journey takes you through the lush green highlands of Kikuyu, before descending along the eastern escarpment of the Great Rift Valley.
6:30 am: Great Rift Valley Viewpoint
Take a scheduled stop at the viewpoint along the escarpment to marvel at the panoramic views of the Rift Valley floor. Formed over 5 million years ago, the Rift Valley stretches from the Red Sea down through Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania. This region is volcanically active and features a diverse range of natural wonders, including more than eight lakes, dormant and active volcanoes, hot springs, and geysers like the Olkaria Geothermal Wells and Lake Bogoria Geysers. From this vantage point, you can see the green craters of Mount Suswa and Mount Longonot, offering a breathtaking perspective perfect for photographs.
7:00 am: Arrive at Mount Longonot National Park
Descend into the Rift Valley and arrive at Mount Longonot National Park, where your hiking adventure begins. The trek up to the crater rim is moderately challenging and will take you through rugged gulleys that cut across the mountain’s slopes. There are designated rest stops along the way for you to catch your breath. Upon reaching the crater rim, you'll be treated to a spectacular view of the crater below. If you're up for it, you can hike around the entire crater rim for more incredible vistas.
12:00 pm: Drive to Lake Naivasha
After descending from Mount Longonot, take some time to relax at the park headquarters before driving to Lake Naivasha.
1:00 pm: Lunch at Marina Camp
Arrive at Marina Camp and enjoy a delicious lunch at the lakeside restaurant while soaking in the serene views of Lake Naivasha and the vibrant birdlife around.
2:30 pm: Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha
Embark on an hour-long boat ride on Lake Naivasha. This ride will bring you up close to the abundant birdlife, including the impressive African fish eagle known for its spectacular dives into the water to catch fish. You will also visit the hippo pool to witness these massive creatures as they swim, grunt, and open their jaws wide in the water.
4:00 pm: Return to Nairobi
Depart from Lake Naivasha, passing through the lush Kikuyu highlands, and arrive back in Nairobi by 5:30 pm, where you'll be dropped off at your hotel.
