Ngong Hills in Ngong: Hours, Facilities and Family Guide
Parks, beaches and nature in Ngong
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Citizen entry is about KES 200 per adult and KES 50 per child; non-residents pay about KES 600. A KWS ranger escort is required and may add a group fee. The hike is 11.5 km and takes 4–5 hours.
What is Ngong Hills?
Ngong Hills is a forest reserve and hiking destination about 22–25 km southwest of Nairobi in Kajiado County. The trail crosses seven undulating peaks — the “Seven Knuckles” — with sweeping views over the Great Rift Valley on one side and Nairobi on the other. Hikers register at Ngong Police Station and pay a Kenya Forest Service entry fee; a KWS armed ranger escort is required for safety (buffalo and baboon presence).
The full hike is about 11.5 km and takes 4–5 hours. It is exposed and can be windy; bring water, snacks and sun protection. Payment at the gate is by M-Pesa or card only — cash is not accepted. The hike is best for families with older children who are comfortable walking for several hours.
Hiking shoes, water, snacks, sun protection, layers (windy)
💡 Money-saving tips for families
- The Ngong Hills are part of the Great Rift Valley escarpment and a key water catchment for Nairobi. The KWS ranger escort supports safety and conservation.
Is it right for your child's age?
| Age group | Verdict | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Pay by M-Pesa or card | Cash is not accepted. | Start early | The hike is exposed and can get hot. | Ranger escort is required |
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Key details
- Price
- Entry from KES 200
- Address
- Ngong Hills Forest Reserve, Kajiado, Ngong
- Opening hours
- 6:00–18:00 daily (hike starts early)
- How long to plan
- 4–5 hours
- Suitable ages
- Older children (8+) who can walk 11.5 km
- Setting
- Outdoor
- Payment accepted
- M-Pesa
- Phone
- +254 797 480784
Tickets and costs
- Child entry: Kenya / East African resident
- KES 200
- Adult entry: non-resident
- KES 50
- Child entry: non-resident
- KES 600
- Toddler entry (0 if free)
- KES 150
- Toddler age band
- Under 16
- Extra costs (activities, rentals, food)
No
- Transport estimate note
- 1,000-1,500
Plan your visit
- Best time to visit
- 2026-10-22
- Busiest times
- Early morning (6–8am) for cool weather and clear views
- How to get there
Weekends (popular with hiking groups)
- By car
- Ngong Hills Forest Station, off Ngong Road southwest of Nairobi
- Uber / Bolt estimate
- About 25 km from Nairobi via Ngong Road; parking at the gate
- Public transport
Uber or Bolt to Ngong town then boda-boda to the gate
- Combine with
Matatu 112 to Kiserian or Ngong, then boda-boda
- What to bring
Combine with Kitengela Hot Glass or Swara Plains.
Accessibility deep dive
Here is what to expect on the ground.
What visitors say
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Frequently asked questions
- What are the Ngong Hills opening hours?
- 6:00–18:00 daily (hike starts early). Busiest: Early morning (6–8am) for cool weather and clear views.
- How long do you need at Ngong Hills?
- Plan for 4–5 hours.
- What payment methods does Ngong Hills accept?
- Ngong Hills accepts M-Pesa. It does not accept cash.
- What is the best time to visit Ngong Hills?
- 2026-10-22. It is busiest Early morning (6–8am) for cool weather and clear views.
- How do you get to Ngong Hills?
- Ngong Hills Forest Station, off Ngong Road southwest of Nairobi. Ride-hailing: About 25 km from Nairobi via Ngong Road; parking at the gate. Public transport: Uber or Bolt to Ngong town then boda-boda to the gate Weekends (popular with hiking groups)
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