Ngong Hills is a stunning destination located in the Rift Valley, just a short drive from Nairobi. This natural wonder is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the great outdoors and experience the beauty of Kenya’s landscape.
One of the main attractions of Ngong Hills is its hiking trails. The 10.5-mile out-and-back trail is a challenging route that takes an average of 6 h 12 min to complete. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including forests, valleys, and hills. The trail is well marked and easy to follow, making it a great option for experienced hikers and beginners alike.
In addition to hiking, Ngong Hills is also a popular destination for birding enthusiasts. The area is home to a wide variety of bird species, including eagles, vultures, and falcons. So, if you’re a birding enthusiast, make sure to bring your binoculars and camera!
One of the unique features of Ngong Hills is the solitary grave of Denys Finch Hatton. The grave is marked by an obelisk and garden and overlooks the Nairobi National Park. Denys Finch Hatton was a British aristocrat and big-game hunter who was famously portrayed in the book “Out of Africa” by Karen Blixen. The grave is a popular spot for visitors looking to pay their respects to the legendary figure.
Ngong Hills is also home to a walking trail that runs along the tops of the hills. This trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a great option for those who want to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the scenery.
If you’re planning a visit to Ngong Hills, it’s important to note that there is an entrance fee. The fee is Ksh. 464 for citizens for adults and Ksh. 174 for children. Non-residents pay Ksh. 696 per adult and Ksh. 174 for kids. However, the fee is qute affordable and well worth it for the experience you’ll have.
Ngong Hills is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Kenya’s landscape. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast, birding enthusiast, or just looking to take a leisurely stroll, Ngong Hills has something for everyone. So, pack your hiking boots, binoculars, and camera, and head out to Ngong Hills for an unforgettable adventure!
Cost of Entering Ngong Hills
To enter Ngong Hills, the entrance fee for citizens for adults is Ksh. 464, while children pay Ksh. 174. For non-residents, the entrance fee is Ksh. 696 per adult and Ksh. 174 for kids. This makes Ngong Hills a great day trip option for families looking to explore the beautiful scenery and enjoy outdoor activities. It is important to note that these fees are subject to change, so it is best to confirm the latest rates before planning your visit.
Source: greathorizontrails.com
The Notable Features of Ngong Hills
Ngong Hills is a scenic range of peaks located southwest of Nairobi, Kenya. It is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and its popularity as a hiking destination. The hills consist of seven peaks, with the highest peak reaching an altitude of 2,460 meters above sea level. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including baboons, monkeys, and a variety of bird species.
Ngong Hills is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers due to its stunning views and diverse terrain. The hiking trails offer a range of difficulty levels, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced hikers. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the beautiful landscapes, including the lush forests, rolling hills, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
In addition to hiking, Ngong Hills is also known for its cultural significance. The area is home to the Maasai people, who are known for their distinctive way of life and rich cultural traditions. Visitors can learn abot the Maasai culture by visiting the Maasai market, where they can purchase traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.
Ngong Hills is a must-visit destination in Kenya, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and cultural experiences.
Average Time Required to Climb Ngong Hills
On average, it takes around 6 hours and 12 minutes to complete the 10.5-mile out-and-back trail near Ngong, Rift Valley. However, the time it takes can vary depending on individual fitness levels, weather conditions, and other factors. It’s important to note that this trail is generally considered to be challenging, so it’s recommended to take breaks and pace oneself accordingly to avoid exhaustion. Additionally, since this is a popular area for birding and hiking, it’s likely that you’ll encounter other people on the trail, which can also affect the time it takes to complete the climb.
Exploring the Ngong Hills
Ngong Hills is a scenic range of hills located in Kenya, just a few kilometers southwest of Nairobi. The hills are home to a wide range of natural features and attractions, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Some of the notable features found in Ngong Hills include walking trails along the tops of the hills, which provie breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Nairobi National Park. Additionally, the hills offer a serene and peaceful environment that is ideal for hiking, picnicking, and bird watching. Notably, the area is also home to the solitary grave of Denys Finch Hatton, marked by an obelisk and garden, which is a significant historical site. The Kenya Forestry Service also has a small post at the northeast foot of the park, providing visitors with a wealth of information on the park’s flora and fauna. Ngong Hills is an excellent destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to explore Kenya’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
Wildlife in Ngong Hills
Ngong Hills is home to a diverse range of wild animals. Some of the animals you can spot in the forest include buffaloes, wild pigs, porcupines, hyenas and dik-diks. To increase your chances of spotting these animals, it is recommended to be at Ngong Hills at sunrise. Although, it is important to note that hyenas are nocturnal animals and are rarely seen during the day. So, to see hyenas, you may need to visit Ngong Hills at night. Ngong Hills is a great place to observe and appreciate the beauty of wildlife in their natural habitat.
Is Alcohol Consumption Allowed in Ngong Hills?
Alcohol is not allowed in Ngong Hills. The management of Ngong Hills has prohibited the consumption of alcohol within the premises. This rule is implemented to ensure the safety and well-being of all visitors as alcohol consumption can lead to disruptive behavior and accidents. Additionally, Ngong Hills promotes eco-friendly practices and encourages visitors to avoid single-use plastics. Therefore, visitors are advised to refrain from bringing alcohol or any single-use plastic to the park. There are other activities available at Ngong Hills such as zip-lining, archery, and bird watching that visitors can enjoy without consuming alcohol.
Cost of Visiting Karura Forest
It costs 200 Kenyan shillings to access Karura Forest. The fee can be paid at the main gates or at the FKF administrative office located at Karura Forest House, Gate-A Karura Forest Reserve, along Limuru Road. This fee allows visitors to enjoy the various attractions and amenities available in the forest, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and cycling routes. It is important to note that the fee may be subject to change, so visitors are advised to confirm the current rate before their visit.
The Benefits of Living in Ngong
Ngong is a great place to live for many reasons. Firstly, it is located in a serene environment that offers a peaceful and quiet lifestyle. The town is situated close to the Ngong Hills slopes, whih provide a beautiful scenic view for residents.
Secondly, Ngong offers affordable housing options for people who want to settle in the area. The cost of living in Ngong is relatively low compared to other towns in Kenya, making it an attractive option for many.
Additionally, Ngong has good infrastructure, including well-maintained roads and reliable access to electricity and water. The town also has good schools, hospitals, and other essential amenities that make it a suitable place to live and raise a family.
The town’s location also offers easy access to Nairobi, which is only a short drive away. This makes it a convenient place to live for people who work or study in the city.
Ngong is a fantastic place to live, offering a peaceful and affordable lifestyle with excellent infrastructure and access to essential amenities.
The Meaning of ‘Ngong’
Ngong is a town located in Kajiado County, in the southern part of Kenya, near the Ngong Hills along the Great Rift Valley. The word “Ngong” is derived from a Maasai word “enkong’u’, which means “the ‘eye’ of water” or spring. The area was named so bcause it was a source of water for the Rhinos that roamed in the region. The word “Ngong” thus carries a significant meaning, reflecting the importance of water in the lives of the people and animals in this region. Today, Ngong is a bustling town, known for its scenic beauty, wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to enjoy its natural beauty and cultural diversity.
Assessing the Difficulty of the Sleeping Giant Hike
The Sleeping Giant hike has a range of difficulty levels, depending on the trail chosen. The Top of the Giant Trail, which takes you to the highest cliffs in Ontario, is considered to be a difficult trail. It is 3.3 km one way, making it a total of 6.6 km round-trip, and has an elevation gain of approximately 250 meters. The trail is steep and requires a good level of fitness and endurance, as well as proper hiking gear. However, the stunning views from the top make it a rewarding and unforgettable experience. It’s important to note that thee are also other trails in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park that vary in difficulty, so it’s best to choose a trail that suits your fitness level and experience.
The Difficulty of the Sleeping Giant Trail
The Sleeping Giant Trail is generally considered a moderately challenging route, with an average completion time of 3 hours and 9 minutes. While it is a popular trail for hiking and running, visitors can still enjoy some solitude durng quieter times of day. The trail features a variety of terrain, including rocky paths and steep inclines, which may require some physical exertion. However, the trail is well-maintained and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, making the effort well worth it. It is important to note that proper hiking shoes and plenty of water are recommended for those embarking on this trail. the Sleeping Giant Trail is a rewarding hike that provides a moderate challenge for those seeking outdoor adventure.
Starting Point of Ngong Hills Hike
The hiking trail on Ngong Hills starts from Ngong town, which is located at the northern foot of the hills and stands at an elevation of 1961 meters above sea level. This is the starting point for the hike that traverses the top edge of the range all the way to the southern end at Kona Baridi. So, if you’re planning to hike the Ngong Hills, you can start your journey from Ngong town and enjoy the stunning views of the hills as you make your way to the top.
Exploring the Natural Wonders of Karura Forest
Karura forest is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The forest boasts of over 200 species of birds, including suni, Harveys Duiker, bushbucks, bush pigs, genets, civets, honey badgers, bush babies, porcupines, Syke’s monkeys, bush squirrels, hares, fruit bats, and vrious reptiles and butterflies. The forest has over 50 km of trails for visitors to walk, run or bike, making it an ideal place for outdoor activities. In addition to its natural beauty, Karura forest also has historical significance, having served as a hiding place for the Mau Mau fighters during Kenya’s struggle for independence. Karura forest is a treasure trove of biodiversity and history, waiting to be explored by visitors.
Cost of Ziplining in Ngong
The cost of ziplining in Ngong Hills is Ksh 1,000 per person. This is the current rate charged by Kompass, the company that offers zipline activities in Ngong Hills. The fee includes all the necessary equipment and safety gear needed for the zipline adventure. It is important to note that prices may vary depending on the service provider or any promotional offers that may be available. It is advisable to contact the service provider for the latest pricing information and to make reservations in advance to avoid any inconveniences.
Number of Windmills in Ngong Hills
Currently, there are several wind turbines installed in Ngong Hills Power Station. The facility was initially commissioned with two wind turbines in 1993, which were later retired. However, after the installation of new hardware, the power station was recommissioned in August 2009 with a capacity of 5.1 MW. Unfortunately, the exact number of wind turbines installed in Ngong Hills Power Station is not specified. Nonetheless, it is safe to say that the facility has multiple wind turbines generating electricity from the wind energy in the area.
Conclusion
Ngong Hills is a breathtaking destination that offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature. From its stunning forest ecosystems to the cool breeze, this scenic landscape is a perfect spot for hiking, birding, and other recreational activities. The entrance fee is quite affordable, making it an ideal day trip for families and groups of friends. The 10.5-mile out-and-back trail is challenging but highly rewarding, providing visitors with a great workout and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The solitary grave of Denys Finch Hatton, marked by an obelisk and garden, is a must-see attraction that adds an extra layer of historical significance to this already remarkable destination. Whether you’re a nature lover, hiker, or simply looking for a great day out, Ngong Hills is an excellent destination that should be on your bucket list.
