Ngong Hills

The Ngong Hills run for about ten kilometres in a line of rounded summits that from the plains look like the knuckles of a fist, which is what the Maasai name describes. The ridge walk from the northern gate to Kona Baridi at the southern end takes four to five hours, staying high the whole way, with the Rift Valley falling away steeply to the west and Nairobi spread out to the east, and wind turbines turning along the crest. Karen Blixen farmed at the foot of these hills and Denys Finch Hatton is buried on the eastern slope, a spot marked with an obelisk, which is why the hills appear in Out of Africa. Buffalo live in the forest below the ridge. Walking with a ranger escort is standard practice, partly for wildlife and partly because muggings have occurred on the quieter sections.

The landscape

• The ridge walk - four to five hours along the crest of the four summits.
• Rift and city views - the valley on one side, Nairobi on the other.
• Wind turbines - the line of machines along the ridge.
• Finch Hatton's grave - the obelisk on the eastern slope below.

When to go

Dry seasons for firm going; the path turns to slick mud in the rains. Early morning for clear views and to finish before the afternoon heat. Weekends bring large numbers of Nairobi walkers; weekdays are quiet.

What to expect

A ranger escort is strongly advised and usually arranged at the gate; walking alone is not recommended. The ridge is exposed with no shade or water. Transport at the far end needs arranging in advance unless you plan to walk back. Buffalo in the lower forest are a genuine hazard.

Nearby

Karen Blixen Museum and the Giraffe Centre lie on the Nairobi side.

Key facts