Mount Longonot is a stratovolcano located southeast of Lake Naivasha in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya. It’s known for its distinctive cone shape and its history of volcanic activity.
Mount Longonot’s Formation
Mount Longonot was formed through a series of volcanic eruptions over millions of years. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
- Rift Valley Formation: The volcano’s formation is closely tied to the creation of the Great Rift Valley. The East African Rift, a geological feature caused by the separation of tectonic plates, created a zone of volcanic activity.
- Magma Upwelling: Magma, molten rock from the Earth’s mantle, rose through cracks and fissures in the Earth’s crust.
- Eruptions and Deposits: Over time, repeated eruptions deposited layers of lava, ash, and other volcanic material, building up a volcanic cone.
- Caldera Formation: One of the most significant events in the volcano’s history was a massive eruption that created the large caldera. This eruption likely involved the collapse of the volcano’s central cone due to the withdrawal of magma.
The result of these processes is the impressive stratovolcano we see today, with its distinctive cone shape and surrounding caldera.
Key Features:
- Volcanic Crater: The most striking feature is its large, 8 x 12 km caldera formed by massive eruptions thousands of years ago. The current summit cone rises within this caldera.
- Hiking Trails: The park offers several hiking trails, including a popular ascent to the summit. The views from the top are breathtaking, overlooking Lake Naivasha and the surrounding Rift Valley.
- Wildlife: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, and various bird species.
- Geothermal Activity: While the volcano is considered dormant, there is evidence of ongoing geothermal activity in the area.
Hiking Mount Longonot:
Hiking Mount Longonot is a popular activity for visitors to the area. The trail is relatively challenging, but the rewards of the panoramic views from the summit are well worth the effort. Visitors to the park can enjoy hiking the 6.2km up and back trail or the 13.5km trail including a rim hike, taking around 3-6 hours.
The Mount Longonot National Park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM for visitors. For non-resident adults, the entrance fee to the park is 33,000 Kenyan Shillings while for the residents they pay 300 kenyan shillings.
Tips for Hiking Mount Longonot:
- Wear sturdy shoes: The terrain can be rocky and uneven.
- Bring plenty of water: The hike can be physically demanding.
- Consider hiring a guide: A local guide can provide valuable insights and ensure your safety.
