Ever been to Ngong Hills? If not, you're in for a treat! Lush, green rolling hills, a breathtaking panorama on this scenic trail.
Just a short drive from Nairobi (only 25 km away in Kajiado County), Ngong Hills offers an escape from the city.
There are two entry points: Ngong Forest Gate (via Ngong Town) and Corner Baridi (Kiserian). I opted to start my adventure from the Ngong Forest Gate side. After paying the entry fee, you can drive a little further past the official parking area, right by the towering power generating wind turbines. As for an armed guide escort, I skipped it but that's up to you!
The hike spans 12 kilometers from the Kenya Forest Services barrier to Corner Baridi. Don’t let the serene beauty of the hills deceive you - this trek is no walk in the park! It’s a challenging hike. My pro tip? Start early to beat the midday sun, as there’s little to no shade. By 8:30am, I was already ascending the first hill, feeling the crisp morning air.
Essentials for the trek: sturdy hiking shoes, plenty of water, and snacks to refuel along the way (don’t forget to carry your trash back with you - it is very disheartening to see the hills littered).
Since there’s no circular trail, it’s a straightforward hike out and back. I decided to tackle all seven of the hills, which took about five hours round trip. The time varies depending on your fitness level, pace, and the breaks your group takes. A heart-pounding 2,460 meters (8,071 feet) above sea level on the seventh hill - absolutely exhilarating!
Ready to conquer the hills? Pack your bags, lace up your boots, and embark on this adventure.
For any further information you can visit the following link: https://www.kenyaforestservice.org/ngong-hills-forest/
