Things You need to know about Ngong Hills

The Ngong Hills, located near Nairobi, Kenya, are a series of peaks along the Great Rift Valley, reaching an elevation of about 2,460 meters (8,071 feet) above sea level. These hills are renowned for their stunning views, cultural significance, and outdoor activities.

Key Features and History

1. Geography and Views: The eastern slopes of the Ngong Hills offer views of Nairobi and the Nairobi National Park, while the western slopes overlook the Great Rift Valley. The hills are remnants of a massive volcano that was formed from basalt lava millions of years ago​​.

2. Cultural Significance: The hills are considered sacred by the Maasai people, who use them for various ceremonies. The area is also historically significant due to its connection to British colonial history and the famous book and film “Out of Africa” by Karen Blixen​​.

3. Activities: Visitors to Ngong Hills can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, picnicking, and ziplining. The hills also have trails leading to caves, waterfalls, and lookout points. The Kenya Forestry Service manages the area, offering guides for a fee, and ensuring the preservation of the natural environment​​.

4. Wildlife and Flora: The hills are home to various wildlife including buffalos, wild pigs, and numerous bird species such as eagles and vultures. The flora includes indigenous trees like Acacia, Croton, and various wild plants and flowers​​.

5. Facilities and Accessibility: The Ngong Hills are easily accessible from Nairobi, about 22 kilometers southwest of the city. The area includes facilities for camping, team-building activities, and even religious services. Entry fees and additional charges apply for activities like hiking and ziplining

Number of Hills in Ngong Hills

The Ngong Hills, located southwest of Nairobi in Kenya, are composed of a series of seven hills. These hills are known for their scenic beauty and panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley. The name “Ngong” is derived from the Maasai word “enkong’u,” which means “knuckles,” referring to the four distinct peaks that resemble a knuckle formation when viewed from a distance. The hills are a popular destination for hiking and picnicking due to their natural beauty and the opportunity to observe wildlife.

The Trail

• Distance: The hike covers a distance of about 12 kilometers from the starting point in Ngong town to Kona Baridi.
• Duration: It generally takes between 4 to 5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the number of stops.
• Difficulty: The trail is moderately challenging, with several steep ascents and descents. It requires a reasonable level of fitness but is manageable for most people with some hiking experience.
• Terrain: The path is well-trodden and varies from grassy slopes to rocky outcrops. The trail is marked, but it’s still advisable to go with a guide or someone who knows the area.

Highlights

• Scenic Views: The Ngong Hills offer panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley to the west and Nairobi city to the east. On clear days, you can see Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance.
• Wind Turbines: The hike passes by several wind turbines that are part of the Ngong Hills Wind Power Station, adding a modern touch to the natural landscape.
• Wildlife: The area is home to various animals, including buffaloes, gazelles, and several bird species. It’s recommended to stay alert and maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
• Cultural Significance: The hills hold cultural importance to the Maasai community, and you may encounter Maasai herders along the way.