Notably one of the best hiking trails around Nairobi, Ngong Hills Forest Reserve boasts of 7 peaks at 2460M above sea level and home to the Ngong Wind Farm Power Station. It is located approximately 29KM from Nairobi city and can easily be accessed by both private and public transport.
Visitors travelling by Matatu can access Matatu route 111 at Agro House at Nairobi CBD and alight at Ngong town. The Hills are located about 2.5 KM from Ngong town and while it is possible to walk, the road up to hills is rough and treacherous.
It is therefore best to take a boda-boda at a cost of sh. 100 up to the entrance of the reserve. The Park is maintained by the Kenya Forest Service who also have a guard stationed at the gate to collect the park fees and have also provided designated parking sports for vehicles. The mode of payments accepted are M-PESA and debit cards. Cash is not accepted. Below are the entry rates:
Citizens:
Adults: Kes. 232 Children: Kes. 58
Residents:
Adults: Kes.464 Children: Kes. 174
Non-Residents:
Adults: Kes.696 Children: Kes.174
Ngong Hills overlook the Nairobi National Park to the eastside and the city of Nairobi to the North. They offer breathtaking views of Ngong town below and Nairobi city on the horizon.
The hills are also an excellent back drop for photographers looking to capture that perfect moment.
Numerous locals and visitors frequent the hills especially in the evenings to catch the amazing views of the sunset from there. The wind mills are also such a beautiful addition to an already spectacular destination. And if you visit the park on a sunny day, you will enjoy some of the bluest skies Kenya can offer.
The park’s operating hours are between 6am and 6 pm daily. The Kenya Forest Service have provided varied but affordable rates for different activities that you can carry out whilst at the venue. A few are highlighted below:
Hiking
Ngong Hills reserve is one of the most popular hiking trails not far away from the city and is suitable for individuals, couples or even groups.
When you are looking for fresh air, to slow down and simply enjoy the serenity of nature, then this is the place to be. The nature on the trails of these hills could arguably mend a broken heart, no? Come and find out.
Picnics
Given the vastness of the hills, you can simply pick a spot and host a picnic with friends and family. Be careful to bring your own snacks and water as you will not be allowed to light a fire within the park. Smoking is also not allowed for obvious reasons.
Cycling
Despite the steep hills, cyclists remain undeterred. The rough terrain and trails also provide a wonderful opportunity for professional cyclists to train.
Photography
Ngong Hills are ideal for photoshoots and film making and while extra charges for photography for commercial purposes apply, the rewards are completely worth it.
Biking
There has been a steady increase in the number of riders in Kenya and particularly in Nairobi. Communities of them congregate in Ngong town on Sundays and proceed to Ngong Hills, making the destination a haven for both professional and beginner riders. The trails join Magadi road that leads to Lake Magadi providing that round trip adventure.
While this sporting activity is allowed and even encouraged, it is important to note that speeding is prohibited and participants must maintain road safety at all times. They should also avoid competitions on the trails for the safety and well-being of all visitors.
School Educational Trips
The Ngong wind farm, a first in Kenya, was commissioned in 2015 and makes a contribution electricity to the national power grid of Kenya. It provides an excellent learning opportunity to students especially as the country looks to a future of clean renewal energy.
Yoga
My visit to the hills early morning made me wonder what a magical location for a yogi looking to practice outside Ngong Hills are. It is not crowded on weekdays, especially not in the mornings. It is possible to find a quiet spot for meditation and prayer too. It gets very windy though, so dress warmly and carry an extra shuka in addition to your mat.
House Keeping Rules
Please do not litter.
No loud music.
No smoking.
No alcohol.
Single use plastic is prohibited.
Children must be accompanied by adults.
Other activities available at Ngong Hills include zip-lining, archery and bird watching. A day spent at these hills promises to leave you rejuvenated, relaxed and ready to once again tackle your goals and pursue your dreams in our otherwise busy, high-paced lives. You should definitely Come Travel Kenya.
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