Ngong Hills Forest Reserve, managed by the Kenya Forest Service, is one of the most accessible outdoor escapes near Nairobi. This article covers entrance fees, trail distances, activities, what to pack, and everything you need to plan your visit.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Key takeaways
- The reserve sits roughly 22 km southwest of Nairobi in Kajiado County.
- Kenyan citizens pay approximately KES 200 per adult at the gate; non-residents pay approximately KES 600.
- Payment is by M-Pesa or debit card only — cash is not accepted.
- Hiking hours run from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm daily.
- Snacks are allowed and strongly recommended, as there are no restaurants on the trail.
About Ngong Hills Forest Reserve
Ngong Hills Forest is located at the northern tip of Kajiado County, about 25 km from Nairobi city centre. The forest covers an area of 3,077.6 hectares.
The hills form a ridge along the Great Rift Valley, located southwest of Nairobi. The word "Ngong" is an Anglicisation of the Maasai phrase enkong'u emuny, meaning "rhinoceros spring."
From the eastern slopes, the hills overlook Nairobi National Park and the city. From the western slopes, they overlook the Great Rift Valley dropping over 1,000 metres below, where Maasai villages have been developed.
The solitary grave of Denys Finch Hatton, marked by an obelisk and garden, is located on the eastern slopes of the hills, overlooking Nairobi National Park.
Ngong Hills entrance gate
Most hikers begin at the Kenya Forest Service main gate on the northern side, near Ngong Town. The first 2 kilometres from Ngong Police Station are a gradual ascent through human settlements until you reach a KFS barrier indicating the start of the forest reserve.
There is a second entry point at Kona Baridi (Corner Baridi) on the southern end. To reach it, board matatu No. 112 from Railways matatu terminus and alight at Kiserian town, about 2 kilometres from the Kona Baridi entry point. A taxi from Nairobi city centre to the Ngong entry point costs approximately KES 2,000.
Payments are processed electronically via M-Pesa mobile money or credit/debit card; cash is not accepted.
Ngong Hills entrance fees
All fees collected at Ngong Hills are mandated by the Kenya Forest Service. These fees are directed towards conservation of the forest, maintenance of trails, and funding of security operations.
The table below shows the current fee structure as reported for 2026. Fees are subject to change — verify the current rates with KFS directly before your visit.
Visitor category | Adult (KES) | Child (KES) |
Kenyan citizen / East African resident | 200 | 50 |
Non-East African resident | 400 | 100 |
Non-resident (international tourist) | 600 | 150 |
Proof of status — such as a National ID, Alien Card, or Passport — is mandatory for fee verification at the entry gate.
Ngong Hills trails
How long is the Ngong Hills hike?
The trail crosses seven undulating peaks — known as the "Seven Knuckles" — reaching a maximum elevation of 2,460 metres (8,071 feet).
The hiking trail starts from Ngong town at the northern foot of the hills, 1,961 m above sea level, and traverses the top edge of the range to the southern end at Kona Baridi. This takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete, depending on fitness levels.
The table below summarises the main route options:
Route | Distance | Duration | Difficulty |
Ngong Gate to highest peak and back | ~12 km | 4–5 hours | Moderate |
Ngong Gate to Kona Baridi (one way) | ~12 km | 4–5 hours | Moderate |
Full out-and-back (Kona Baridi and return) | ~24 km | 6–7 hours | Challenging |
The full out-and-back trail on AllTrails is listed at 10.5 miles (approximately 17 km). It is generally considered a challenging route, taking an average of 6 hours and 12 minutes to complete.
What to expect on the trail
The hike is highly regarded for its panoramic views, with the Great Rift Valley to the west and the Nairobi city skyline to the east.
The ridge walk passes a wind farm and radio repeater masts before tackling the steep rolling hills.
During the rainy season, the trail can be quite muddy and slippery. Expect chilly and cold weather, so pack warm clothing.
Do you need a guide?
If you are not familiar with Ngong Hills or are hiking solo, it is advisable to get a guide. Kenya Forest Service guards are stationed at the gate to help navigate the terrain. They charge KES 1,500 for Kenyan citizens and KES 2,000 for foreigners.
Security on Ngong Hills is a concern, with some incidents of muggers attacking small groups reported over the years. You are advised to get an armed guide from KFS at the gate.
Activities and prices
Ngong Hills provides a wide variety of activities, including camping, team building, picnics, weddings, cycling, hiking, video shooting, archery, ziplining, and religious practices.
Along the trail itself there are no facilities. Several vendors near the entrance sell water and snacks. Picnicking is permitted in designated areas.
Are snacks allowed in Ngong Hills?
Yes — snacks are allowed and actively encouraged. Limited supplies are available inside the park. Carry at least 2–3 litres of water per person, especially if hiking the entire route. Energy-boosting snacks are also recommended.
Bring your own snacks and water, as you will not be allowed to light a fire within the park. Single-use plastics are prohibited.
What to pack
- Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction
- At least 2 litres of water per person
- Snacks or a packed lunch
- A windproof jacket — highly recommended due to persistent winds
- Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses
- National ID or passport for fee verification
- M-Pesa or a debit card for the entrance fee
Contact details
For more information, contact the Forester in Charge at Ngong Hills Forest Station on 0797 480 784 or 0755 838 360, or email info@kenyaforestservice.org. The KFS toll-free line is 0800 721 277 (Monday to Friday, 8 am–5 pm).
FAQs
How long is the Ngong Hills hike?
The distance to the peak and back is approximately 12 km, with a maximum elevation of 2,460 m and an elevation gain of around 600 m. The full hike to Kona Baridi gate and back covers approximately 24 km. Most hikers at a moderate pace finish the one-way traverse in 4–5 hours.
What is the Ngong Hills entrance fee for Kenyan citizens?
Kenyan citizens and East African residents receive subsidised rates supporting domestic and regional tourism. Adults pay KES 200 and children pay KES 50. Carry an M-Pesa-enabled phone or a debit card, as cash is not accepted at the gate.
What is the best time to visit Ngong Hills?
The hills are open year-round. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit at any time. Nairobi and the Ngong Hills sit in the highlands above the Rift Valley and are considerably cooler than the lowlands. Wind can pick up even on a hot and sunny day. The dry months of June to October and January to February generally offer the clearest views.
Are snacks allowed on the Ngong Hills trail?
Yes. You can carry your snacks and have a mini picnic after your hike. There are no shops or restaurants along the trail itself, so pack everything you need before entering the reserve. Single-use plastics are prohibited — carry a reusable bag for your waste.
Can beginners hike Ngong Hills?
The Ngong Hills hike is a relatively easy hike and a suitable choice for beginners — and virtually anyone looking for a gentle day hike not too far from the capital. With a gradual incline up and down the undulating landscape, the trail features seven hills and primarily grassland terrain. Those wanting a bigger challenge can continue past the summit all the way to Kona Baridi.
Tuko.co.ke also highlighted facts about Karura Forest’s 2026 entrance fees, opening hours, activities and visitor rules.
With more than 50 kilometres of trails and waterfalls, caves and wildlife, the Nairobi forest offers a remarkable escape within the city. Find out what to bring, how to pay and which items are prohibited before you go.
Source: TUKO.co.ke