Visit Ngong Hills

browse (1 / 1)

Overlooking the Great Rift Valley this ridge dominates the view west from Nairobi on any clear day. From a distance the 4 main summits resemble the knuckles of a giant whose fate is the subject of several Masai legends. They provide good walking over rolling grassy slopes dotted with dense shrub. One should be alert to the areas where buffalo can be encountered. In all a rich variety of game can be seen if care is taken. The main ridge crest provides excellent views of sunsets over the Rift Valley. The main section, all above 2000m, gives excellent acclimatisation and training prior to any trips to higher mountains. It is important to check the security situation with the Ngong Police or the MCK. Either end of the ridge may be reached in 30-40 min. from Nairobi by private transport.

Access and Route. From the south: 20km from the Langata Road turn-off, the Nairobi to Magadi tarmac road crosses the end of the south ridge (2040m); this provides a more remote and pleasant way up to the main summit Lamwia (2460m), 2h. A further 1h should be allowed for the traverse of the 4 "knuckles" to the Radio Station and carpark at the north end (2350m); add another hour if walking down to Ngong Town (2000m). Cars should not be left at the south end without an askari as they are likely to be vandalised. Buses and matatus pass this point frequently.

From the north: easier. Drive to Ngong Town (see Embaribal access section), turn right at the T-junction, then bear left to the Police Post. Immediately past the Police Post turn right up a dirt track and take the first right fork which leads steeply to the car park by the top Radio Stat-ion. Buses and matatus only go as far as Ngong Town. Lamwia can be reached in 1h (3h on foot from Ngong Town). If descending to the Magadi Road allow an extra 1h30.