Mount Suswa Entrance Fee Caving & Camping
- BeyondForest
- Sep 10, 2024
- 8 min read
Updated: Jul 5
By the end of this section you will have learnt
1.)FAQ About Mount Suswa
2.)Mount Suswa Entrance Fee
4.)Mount Suswa by Train
5.)List of Mount Suswa Tour and Travel Companies
6.)Mount Suswa Hike Features
8.)Flora and Fauna around Mount Suswa
The last known eruption is estimated to have occurred hundreds to a few thousand years ago. The region still shows signs of geothermal activity, including hot springs, steam vents, and fumaroles
Mount Suswa is a shield volcano located in Kenya which rises to about 2,356 meters (7,732 feet) above sea level and offers a unique landscape with its distinctive features and rich biodiversity. The mountain is situated in the Great Rift Valley, an area known for its significant geological and ecological importance.
While Mount Suswa is not currently erupting, its geothermal signs and structure suggest it is geologically active, making it an important site for scientific study and eco-tourism.
Minor seismic activity has been recorded in and around the area, indicating that the magma system beneath is not extinct
The region’s volcanic activity has shaped its landscape. Located between Narok and Kajiado Counties, roughly 50 kilometers northwest of Nairobi, Mount Suswa stands as a unique double-crater shield volcano.
Image of Caves at Mount Suswa
Mount Suswa holds cultural and historical significance for the local communities. The Maasai people, who are indigenous to the region, have long had a connection with the land around Mount Suswa. For the Maasai, the mountain is not only a landmark but also a part of their spiritual and cultural heritage.
Suswa also features extensive lava tube cave systems, particularly on its northeastern flanks. These caves are some of the largest and most complex in Kenya.
Adults
Citizen Adult | 500Ksh |
Resident Adult | 1000Ksh |
Non-Resident Adult | 30USD |
Children
Citizen Child | 300Ksh |
Resident Child | 300Ksh |
Non-Resident Child | 10USD |
Camping fee for adult is 1,000Ksh each per night while for children camping fees is 500Ksh Firewood cost 1,000Ksh per night while guiding fee is 1,000Ksh per day.
Vehicle fee | 500Ksh |
Motorbike fee | 300Ksh |
Which Type of Mountain is Mount Suswa
Mount Suswa is a shield volcano, characterized by its broad, gently sloping sides. Unlike stratovolcanoes, which have steeper profiles, shield volcanoes are formed by the eruption of low-viscosity basaltic lava that can flow long distances. This type of volcanic activity creates wide, shield-like structures. The lava flows of Mount Suswa have contributed to its wide and relatively low-profile shape, contrasting sharply with more dramatic volcanic features.
How Far is Suswa From Nairobi
Suswa is approximately 120 kilometers from Nairobi The drive typically takes 2 to 2.5 hours by car, using the Nairobi–Mai Mahiu Narok Road (B3), which is part of the Great Rift Valley route.From Nairobi via Waiyaki Way or Ngong Road Pass through Mai Mahiu town Continue west toward Mount Suswa Conservancy or Suswa town
By Train
Suswa has a Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) station served by the Nairobi–Suswa train, operating from the Syokimau station. Train travel takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
Yes, Suswa is an active volcanic complex, though it is classified as dormant rather than erupting . Mount Suswa is a shield volcano known for its unique double crater structure a feature not commonly found in other volcanoes
For a non-resident adult driving in a car and camping overnight Entrance Fee cost 30USD Plus Vehicle fee cost 500Ksh plus Camping cost 1,000Ksh totaling to 40 USD
Here’s a detailed summary of the entrance fees for Mount Suswa Conservancy Kenyan Citizens 500Ksh per person Kenyan Residents 1,000Ksh per person Citizen/Resident Children300 Ksh per child while for Non-Resident (International) Adults 30 USD per person and Non-Resident (International) Children 10 USD per child
Mount Suswa is located in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, approximately 120 kilometers west of Nairobi, between the towns of Mai Mahiu and Narok. It lies within both Kajiado and Narok counties, straddling the border between the two.
How Long does It take to hike Mount Suswa
Hiking Mount Suswa typically takes 4 to 6 hours, depending on the route taken, fitness level, and weather conditions. The hike is moderately challenging and offers a rewarding experience with panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley, volcanic craters, and wildlife sightings Ascent to the outer crater rim takes 1.5 to 2 hours while the Crater rim walk & exploration takes 1 to 2 hours a total round trip takes 4 to 6 hours for a full experience
When visiting Mount Suswa, it’s important to dress appropriately for both the hiking terrain and variable weather in the Rift Valley. The area can be hot during the day and chilly at night, especially if you’re camping Wide-brimmed hat or cap to protect against the sun Sunglasses with UV protection Durable hiking trousers or cargo pants (avoid shorts due to thorny bushes)
While visiting Mount Suswa Extra water , About 3 litres ,Snacks ,Sun glasses ,Hat ,Warm clothes , Rain coat and Camera
To board a train to Suswa from Nairobi, go to the Nairobi SGR Terminus located in Syokimau, along Mombasa Road. This is the main departure point for the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) commuter trains heading toward Suswa Station in Narok County.
List of Hotels In Suswa
Hotels located at Suswa are 5 most they include Suswa Ranch resort,Suswa House ,Mount Suswa Eco lodge and Bush camp ,Mara getaway resort and Zambezi Resort
Suswa Ranch Resort
Comfortable cottages, private bathrooms, restaurant, free parking, close to SGR station.
Suswa House (within the resort)
Vacation rental-style stay with fully furnished cottages and rural charm.
Mount Suswa Eco Lodge & Bush Camp
Eco-friendly secluded camping, perfect for nature lovers and hikers.
Zambezi Resort
Zambezi Resort in Suswa offers scenic views, cozy rooms, local cuisine, event hosting, and a peaceful countryside retreat experience.
Mara Getaway Resort
Mara Getaway Resort in Suswa offers serene accommodation, mountain views, a restaurant, event space, and proximity to Mount Suswa trails.
Mount Suswa Caves
Mount Suswa Caves are a vast network of lava tubes formed by volcanic activity beneath the mountain’s surface. These caves stretch for kilometers and are home to bats and baboons. Visitors explore the cool, echoing chambers with local Maasai guides, making it a thrilling cultural and geological adventure.
Mount Suswa by Train
Ngong Tunnel is East Africa's longest Tunnel
Experience a prodigious ride in the SGR madaraka Express Train as it cascades through Nairobi National park to The Great Rift valley Escarpments.
Image of Nachu Tunnel by projectskenya
The Train to Mount Suswa departs from Nairobi at exactly 8:30 am thus best time to be at the station is by 7:00 and latest 7:30 . The train to Mount Suswa has three stop overs Ongata Rongai Station, Ngong Station and Mai Mahiu and the final destination being mount Suswa with the best thrilling part being at the Ngong Tunnel ,Nachu tunnel and the Kimuka Tunnel
The train takes approximately 2 hours thirty minutes to get to Suswa station as it arrives at 11:00 am and at around 3:30 and 4:00pm the train makes the round trip to Nairobi
List of Mount Suswa Tour and Travel Companies
After typing the hashtag #nachutunnel on Instagram a whole list of Tour and Travel companies that offer an experience to Mount Suswa covered my screen here is a list of the tour companies
kq_finest_adventures | 3091 Followers | 0722783467 |
bundiezsafaris | 12,000Followers | 0704562970 |
risquestadventures | 1000 Followers | 0721802891 |
hagaitoursandtravel | 1700 Followers | 0707309950 |
Taliiadventures | 3256 Followers | 0797986551 |
Taji Adventures | 1900Followers | 0716972443 |
Naretu Tour Agency | 6000 Followers | 0708 331037 |
Zuru Adventures | 45 Followers | 0792 516 286 |
Mflip Adventures | 1700 Followers | 0714456493 |
Jowizo Adventures | 150 Followers | 0723 876467 |
Vacation Master | 3000 Followers | 0768288008 |
The whole hike takes about 8 - 9 hours
Roadtrip / Train Trip with great company from Nairobi to Suswa and back
Hiking to an attitude of up to 2,356 metres above sea level
Hiking the unique Suswa double crater with a moat-like inner crater surrounding a tilted block of rock covering an area of about 270km2
Hiking in the forest that is home to a variety of wildlife, including hyenas, buffaloes, antelopes
Amazing view of the Margaret hill, Mai Mahiu town, Suswa camp and Olonana boundary -Trekking on a moderate 6km stretch before starting the hike at the crater
Along the way, you encounter rock hyraxes darting between boulders and small antelopes grazing peacefully on the slopes
Here’s a list of top things to do in Suswa, ideal for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and cultural explorers
1. Hike Mount Suswa
Trek the unique double-crater volcano Enjoy panoramic views of the Rift Valley
2. Explore the Lava Caves
Visit the extensive lava tube caves with a Maasai guide See bat colonies, cave paintings, and baboon "parliaments"
3. Go Camping on the Crater Rim
Camp under the stars with breathtaking views
4. Photography and Nature Walks
Capture dramatic landscapes, sunsets, and wildlife
5. Cultural Tours with the Maasai
Learn about Maasai traditions and village life
6. Ride the Nairobi–Suswa Train
Enjoy a scenic train journey through the Rift Valley
What to expect on the Way to Suswa
Experience a prodigious ride in the SGR Madaraka Express Train as it cascades through Nairobi National park to The Great Rift valley Escarpments.
Nairobi National park's minutes trip as the train quietly glides through a 6.563 KM bridge, hoisted by 198 piers, 178 of which are within the iconic park.
Infiltrate through 3 tunnels Ngong Tunnel (East Africa longest Tunnel), Kimuka Tunnel and Nachu Tunnel which is one of the most unforgettable experiences.
Spot wild animals in Nairobi National park and between Rongai Sgr station and Ngong sgr station.
Between Ngong and Suswa stations ,Watch out the impressive views of forested hills and a continuous mountain skyline dotted with the summits of the Aberdare ranges,Mount Suswa and mount Longonot.
Image of Mount Suswa elevation
The vegetation on Mount Suswa varies significantly with altitude and exposure. At lower elevations, the vegetation includes savannah grasslands and acacia trees. As one ascends, the flora transitions to include various shrubs and grasses adapted to cooler and wetter conditions. Higher up, the vegetation becomes more sparse, with fewer trees and more hardy, drought-resistant plants.
One of the notable plant species in the area is the African violet (*Saintpaulia*), which thrives in the cooler, higher elevations of the mountain. The presence of endemic and unique plant species makes Mount Suswa an area of interest for botanists and conservationists.
Image of cattles grazing around Mount Suswa
Mount Suswa is home to a variety of wildlife, adapted to the diverse habitats found on the mountain. The region supports populations of mammals such as zebras, giraffes, and various antelope species. Additionally, the area is a habitat for numerous bird species, including raptors and smaller birds that rely on the different ecological zones for their survival.
The mountain also provides crucial water resources for local wildlife and communities. The rainwater that accumulates on Mount Suswa flows into several rivers and streams, which are vital for both the local ecosystem and human settlements in the surrounding areas.
Scientific Research and Conservation around Mount Suswa
Image of caves at Mount Suswa
Mount Suswa is of significant interest to scientists studying volcanic activity, geology, and ecology. The complex volcanic structure, including the calderas and lava tubes, provides a natural laboratory for understanding volcanic processes and their impact on the environment. Researchers study the mountain to gain insights into volcanic behavior, including eruption patterns and lava flow dynamics.
The rich biodiversity of Mount Suswa also makes it a key site for ecological and conservation research. Efforts to conserve the area focus on protecting the unique flora and fauna and maintaining the ecological balance. Various organizations and research institutions collaborate on conservation projects aimed at preserving the natural environment and addressing threats such as habitat loss and climate change.
Challenges and Future Prospects on Mount Suswa
Mount Suswa faces several challenges that could impact its geological, ecological, and cultural significance. Climate change poses a threat to the delicate balance of ecosystems, potentially altering vegetation patterns and affecting wildlife habitats. Additionally, human activities such as land use changes and development can have adverse effects on the environment.
Efforts to address these challenges include conservation initiatives aimed at protecting the natural environment and promoting sustainable development. Collaboration between scientists, conservationists, local communities, and policymakers is crucial for ensuring the long-term preservation of Mount Suswa and its surrounding areas.
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