The Ngong Hills are a series of prominent peaks rising from the floor of the Great Rift Valley, located approximately 22 kilometres southwest of Nairobi's central business district.
As a gazetted forest reserve, the area serves as a critical water catchment for the region and a key recreational destination. It offers panoramic views and challenging hiking trails.
The area is defined by its distinctive 'knuckle-shaped' peaks. These are the eroded remnants of an ancient volcano.
The modern Ngong Wind Power Station, with its turbines, is a landmark on the ridgeline.
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Kajiado County, approximately 22 km southwest of Nairobi, Kenya |
| Highest Peak Elevation | 2,460 metres (8,071 feet) above sea level |
| Main Gate Elevation | 1,961 metres (6,434 feet) above sea level |
| Protected Area | Ngong Hills Forest Reserve |
| Reserve Area Size | 3,077 hectares (30.77 square kilometres) |
| Primary Activities | Hiking, trail running, picnicking, mountain biking, religious gatherings |
| Managing Authority | Kenya Forest Service (KFS) |
The name 'Ngong' originates from the Maasai phrase "enkong'u emuny". This translates to "rhinoceros spring", referencing a water source near Ngong Town.
Culturally, the western slopes of the hills are home to Maasai communities, maintaining the area's deep heritage.
Karen Blixen's memoir, 'Out of Africa,' describes her farm at the foot of the hills. This brought the hills international recognition.
The grave of her associate, Denys Finch Hatton, is located on the eastern slopes. It overlooks what is now Nairobi National Park.
The Ngong Hills Forest is a formally gazetted forest reserve. It covers 3,077 hectares.
This protected status distinguishes it from the broader figure of 21,000 sq km sometimes cited for the wider ecosystem.
The reserve's primary function is to protect the indigenous forest and its vital role as a water catchment area for Nairobi and surrounding communities.
The Kenya Forest Service directly manages the reserve. It oversees all visitor activities, fee collection, and security within its boundaries.
The traverse of the Ngong Hills' seven main peaks is the principal activity. This linear trail offers a consistent challenge with rewarding views.
It is a standard day-trip for fitness enthusiasts and visitors from the capital.
The standard hiking route is a point-to-point traverse.
Most hikers begin at the Kenya Forest Service main gate on the northern side, near Ngong Town.
The trail proceeds south along the ridgeline, summiting each of the seven hills. It concludes at Kona Baridi ("the cold corner") on the southern end.
From Kona Baridi, hikers arrange for transport back to Nairobi or Ngong Town.
The hike involves ascending and descending a series of seven distinct peaks, often referred to as 'knuckles'.
The trail begins with a steep ascent to the first peak, which is marked by radio and telecommunication masts.
Subsequent peaks vary in steepness and the depth of the saddle between them.
Lamwia is the highest point of the ridge, at an elevation of 2,460 metres.
The full traverse from the KFS Main Gate to Kona Baridi covers a distance of approximately 12 to 15 kilometres.
The hike is classified as moderately difficult. It typically requires four to five hours to complete, contingent on individual fitness levels.
The terrain consists of open grassy slopes, which can be slippery after rain. There are also sections of indigenous forest in the saddles between the peaks.
The total altitude gain from the northern entrance to the highest peak is approximately 499 metres.
The hills are a significant geological and ecological feature. They represent the remnants of a major volcanic event and support a specific Afromontane ecosystem.
The Ngong Hills are the eroded remnants of a large, extinct shield volcano. It was active during the Pliocene epoch, approximately 5 million years ago.
The peaks seen today are the resistant plugs and dykes of the original volcanic structure. This has weathered over millennia.
The geology is primarily composed of alkali basalts and phonolites, common to the Great Rift Valley's volcanic formations.
The reserve's ecosystem is characterised by a mix of indigenous Afromontane forest and exotic tree plantations.
Dominant native tree species include Croton megalocarpus, Olea europaea ssp. cuspidata (African wild olive), and Brachylaena huillensis.
These forests provide crucial habitat for various fauna.
Additionally, commercial plantations of non-native species such as Eucalyptus are managed by the KFS.
The forest reserve provides sanctuary for a range of wildlife. Sightings can be infrequent due to the dense cover.
Recorded species include buffalo, bushbuck, dik-dik, impala, porcupines, and nocturnal predators like leopards and spotted hyenas.
The area is also a habitat for diverse birdlife. Notable species include Hartlaub's turaco, African crowned eagle, and various sunbirds.
Planning a visit requires consideration of the local microclimate. This can differ significantly from that of central Nairobi due to the higher altitude.
The region experiences two primary dry seasons and two rainy seasons.
The long dry season runs from July to October. The short dry season is from January to February.
The long rains occur from March to June. The short rains are from November to December.
Strong winds are a near-constant feature on the exposed ridgeline, particularly in the afternoon.
The dry seasons (January-February and July-October) offer the most favourable conditions for hiking.
During these periods, the trails are firm. The probability of clear skies is higher, ensuring unobstructed views.
Hiking during the rainy seasons is possible but requires appropriate gear for muddy and slippery conditions.
The elevation and strategic position of the hills provide some of the most expansive and accessible viewpoints in the Nairobi metropolitan area.
From the eastern side of the ridgeline, there are uninterrupted views over Nairobi National Park, the suburbs of Karen and Lang'ata, and the entire Nairobi city skyline to the north.
Looking west from the peaks, the view drops sharply into the Great Rift Valley. Mount Suswa and Mount Longonot are visible on clear days.
The western escarpment is a primary location for observing sunsets over the Rift Valley.
For optimal photography, clear, sunny days during the dry season are recommended.
The intense blue sky at high altitude provides a strong contrast for landscape shots.
Morning light works best for capturing views towards Nairobi. Late afternoon and sunset are ideal for views into the Rift Valley.
A polarizing filter can be effective in managing atmospheric haze and enhancing colours.
A successful trip to Ngong Hills requires logistical planning. This includes considerations for transport, fees, safety, and gear.
This section provides necessary information for a well-prepared visit.
Visitors should carry a minimum of two litres of water per person. There are no water points along the trail.
Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction are essential.
A windproof jacket is highly recommended due to the persistent winds.
Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are necessary for sun protection at altitude.
It is also advisable to carry energy-providing snacks.
Hiring an armed KFS ranger provides a recommended safety precaution. This is not mandatory for small groups.
Rangers provide security against opportunistic crime and potential wildlife encounters, particularly with buffalo.
Guides can be arranged at the main KFS gate upon arrival.
Their knowledge of the trail, flora, and fauna also enhances the experience.
Hike in groups and stay on the marked trail.
Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged. Save the contact number for the KFS Ngong Forest Station before starting.
In case of an emergency, contact your guide or the KFS office directly.
Be aware of your surroundings, as infrequent instances of robbery have been reported.
The hills are easily accessible from Nairobi via public or private transport.
By private vehicle, the drive from central Nairobi to the KFS main gate in Ngong Town takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available.
For public transport, Matatus (route 111) operate frequently from the Nairobi CBD to Ngong Town.
From the town, a short 'boda-boda' (motorcycle taxi) ride is required to reach the KFS gate.
To reach the main entrance, drive to Ngong Town.
From the centre of town, follow the signposts for the Ngong Hills/KFS Forest Station.
The road leads directly to the main gate where entry fees are paid.
For those finishing at Kona Baridi, pre-arranged transport is necessary for the return journey. Public transport is not readily available at the trail's end.
All visitors must pay an entrance fee to the Kenya Forest Service. As of 2026, payments are processed electronically via M-Pesa mobile money or credit/debit card; cash is not accepted.
| Visitor Category | Entry Fee (KES) | Security (Armed Ranger) Fee (KES) |
|---|---|---|
| Citizen (Adult) | KES 275 | KES 4,000 per group |
| Resident (Adult) | KES 690 | |
| Non-Resident (Adult) | KES 690 |
Note: Fees are subject to change by the Kenya Forest Service. Verify current rates before visiting.
As of 2026, all international visitors entering Kenya must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) prior to their journey.
The visa system has been replaced by this new requirement.
Applicants must submit their request online via the official government portal. It is recommended to do so at least 72 hours before travel to allow for processing.
Facilities at the reserve are basic, focusing on preserving the natural environment.
At the main KFS gate, there are basic toilet facilities and a secure parking area.
Along the trail itself, there are no facilities.
Several vendors near the entrance sell water and snacks.
Picnicking is permitted in designated areas. Visitors are required to carry out all their rubbish.
The Ngong Wind Farm Power Station, operated by KenGen, is located within the reserve but is not open to public tours.
There are no accommodation or camping facilities located directly inside the Ngong Hills Forest Reserve.
Visitors seeking overnight stays can find numerous options in the nearby suburbs of Karen and Lang'ata, ranging from luxury hotels to guesthouses.
The town of Ngong also offers a selection of local hotels.