|
Standing over the shores of Lake Naivasha,
at 2886 metres this massive dormant volcano dominates the
landscape for miles around. Main road access to Mt Longonot
is from the lower escarpment road between Nairobi and Naivasha.
There is a marked gate. Accessing Longonot requires private
transport. There is a secure parking area at the park gate.
There is an airstrip in Naivasha, servicing charter flights.
The brooding hulk of the Mountain is lined
with spectacular fissures and Laval canyons. As you climb
these slopes, you pass through herds of grazing game as
spectacular views of the Rift Valley and Naivasha unfold
below.
Its vast crater is an awesome sight, the
jagged edge surrounding a broad expanse of vegetation. Geothermal
steam trickles upwards from the walls, while buffalo and
other game make their way across the crater floor.
A climb up Mount Longonot is an ideal day
trip from either Nairobi or Naivasha. Can be organized for
guests staying at any of the Naivasha hotels and lodges.
This truly spectacular region is one of Kenya's best-kept
secrets.
The highlands and escarpment of the North
Rift Valley provide some of the country's most awe-inspiring
views, across the broad and beautiful Kerio Valley. The
scenic vistas around the Elgeyo escarpment are truly stunning,
especially from the 'World's End' viewpoint at Nyaru. Waterfalls
flow down the face of these escarpments, and at Chebloch,
on the valley floor water runs through a deep and narrow
gorge with sheer rock walls.
The highlands are an excellent place to explore,
and there is plenty to discover among the many hills and
ranges. From the high Tugen Hills, there are excellent views
across arid rift valley floor to Lake Baringo. The lush
green hills around Kericho are home to Kenya's tea industry,
and the nearby Kisii Community is world renowned for their
beautiful soapstone carving.
Unlike most of Kenya's mountains and ranges,
the rolling Cherangani Hills are not volcanic in origin.
The hills are centered upon a forested escarpment and surrounded
on three sides by sheer cliff faces. They are criss-crossed
by walking paths, and ease of direction and undemanding
slopes make this excellent country for relaxing hill walking.
The paths cross open farmland, pass through sheltered valleys
and wind their way up to forested peaks.
This is a birding mecca, and whether you are
a serious ornithologist or a hobby birder, you should not
miss the Cheranganis. There are excellent bird guides available
locally.
Wildlife enthusiasts can also visit the nearby Saiwa Swamp
National Park. This is one of the few parks that permit
walking, and is an ideal place for a days hike. This wild
country is home to many and varied species, the best known
being the very rare Sitatunga. This semi-amphibious antelope
lives in the depths of these swamps. Rimoi National Reserve,
in the Kerio Valley, is an important area for elephant migration.
The Western Highlands have become a major draw for sporting
tourists. This is the home of many of Kenya's world famous
runners. This is probably the finest place on earth for
high altitude athletic training, and many international
athletes visit training camps around Iten and Kaptagat.
But the real beauty of these Highlands lies
in the solitude, peace, and isolation to be found in the
hills…
Not included
All personal equipment |
You are advised
to come with your own sleeping bag and one bed sheet and
recommended list of the mountain equipment/clothing’s
to be brought as follows
Warm, windproof jacket with hood.
Waterproof jacket and over trousers.
Walking trouser, long sleeve, shirts and pullovers.
Warm underwear, Good comfortable walking boots.
Training shoes (for evening) *Gaiters.
Sun hat, *Warm hat or balaclava, *Scarf.
Good warm sleeping bag a must.
Water bottle (1 to 2 liters.)
Water purification tablet/solution (and filter).
Wash kit and towel, toilet paper.
First aid kit (personal medication, blister plaster,
headache tablets, sun cream, lip salve)
Torch, Sun glasses, Walking poles
Don't forget your favorite sweets or nibbles.
Book
|
Africa
Sights & Sounds
