Things To Do
in Ngong
Ngong is a town located in the Rift Valley region of Kenya, known for its picturesque views of the Ngong Hills. The town has a mix of residential areas and commercial establishments, creating a lively and diverse community. Ngong is surrounded by lush greenery and farms, making it a peaceful and scenic getaway from the bustling city of Nairobi.
The town is also famous for its vibrant markets, offering a wide array of fresh produce and handmade crafts.
- "Habari gani?" - How are you?
- "Asante sana" - Thank you very much
- "Karibu" - Welcome
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Sawa" - Okay
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing morning hike in the Ngong Hills. Enjoy the fresh air and stunning views of the valleys below.
Have a picnic lunch at one of the scenic spots in the hills. Spend the afternoon exploring the local flora and fauna.
Wrap up the day with a peaceful sunset view over the hills. Take photos to capture the beautiful colors of the sky.
Visit a local cultural center to learn about the Kikuyu traditions. Participate in a traditional dance workshop.
Enjoy a local meal at a nearby eatery, savoring traditional dishes. Continue your afternoon with a visit to local artisans.
Attend a storytelling session organized by the cultural center. Connect with locals and gain deeper insights into their heritage.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural landscapes and views of the Ngong Hills.
- Cool climate, making it a pleasant place to live.
- Proximity to Nairobi, providing access to urban amenities while maintaining a quieter lifestyle.
- Growing community with local markets and businesses.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
- Limited access to high-end healthcare facilities compared to urban centers.
- Infrastructure development may be lagging in some areas.
- Public transport options might be limited or less reliable.
- Potential for rapid population growth, which could lead to congestion and resource strain.
- Cold weather may not be suitable for everyone, especially those preferring warmer climates.
Best Activities in Ngong
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic Ngong Hills and enjoy panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley and Nairobi from the top.
Experience thrilling rock climbing adventures at Hell's Gate National Park, known for its stunning cliffs and gorges.
Embark on a cycling adventure through the picturesque landscapes of the Great Rift Valley, with its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ngong with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ngong
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley and Nairobi
Provides a unique opportunity to take photos with the Nairobi skyline in the background
Allows for close encounters with giraffes in a picturesque setting
Food in Ngong
Ngong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Ugali, a maize-based staple, is often served with Nyama Choma, grilled meat. Try this quintessential Kenyan dish at the popular Open House Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Sukuma Wiki, a vegetable stew made from collard greens, is a must-try for a taste of authentic Kenyan home-cooked food. Visit Mama Ashanti's Kitchen for a delicious rendition.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ngong better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling Ngong Road Market for a variety of fresh produce, spices, and street food delights like Mishkaki, grilled meat skewers.
Discover local food stands, known as Kibandas, along Ngong Road serving chapati, samosas, and mandazi, offering a true taste of Kenyan street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ngong, Kenya, it is considered respectful to greet people with a handshake and to use proper greeting phrases such as 'jambo' (hello) and 'habari yako' (how are you).
Respecting elders is an important cultural norm in Ngong. This includes using respectful language and seeking their advice or permission when necessary.
It is important to dress modestly in Ngong, especially when visiting rural areas or attending community events. This shows respect for the local cultural norms.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ngong with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ngong
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ngong, Kenya, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated in restaurants, hotels, and for tour guides or drivers. A customary amount to tip is around 10% of the total bill.
In Ngong, Kenya, cash is widely used for daily transactions. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in larger establishments. Mobile money services like M-Pesa are commonly used for peer-to-peer and merchant transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ngong.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Ngong, great for wildlife viewing and trekking, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures.
Expect occasional showers, lush green landscapes, and the birth of many animals.
Landscape is verdant, migratory birds can be spotted, and it's generally less crowded.
Ngong at Night
Hiking in Ngong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of Nairobi and the Great Rift Valley. The cooler climate and scenic trails make it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Located near Ngong, Kereita Forest has well-marked hiking trails. It features lush vegetation and a canopy walk, providing an immersive nature experience.
While a bit further away in Nairobi, Karura Forest offers several trails for hiking, walking, and cycling within a serene environment, complete with waterfalls and picnic spots.
This nature trail located in the Oloolua Forest offers a mix of hiking and environmental education with guided tours showcasing the flora and fauna of the area.
These scenic trails near Ngong feature diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes, making it a great spot for both casual hikers and serious trekkers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ngong through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ngong by plane.
Located in Nairobi, approximately 31 kilometers from Ngong, it is the busiest airport in East Africa and serves as a major international gateway.
Also located in Nairobi, approximately 27 kilometers from Ngong, it primarily serves domestic flights and some regional international flights.
Situated approximately 313 kilometers northwest of Ngong, it handles both international and domestic flights, serving the western part of Kenya.
Located about 355 kilometers west of Ngong, it serves Kisumu and the surrounding region, providing both domestic and international flights.
Located in Mombasa, approximately 494 kilometers southeast of Ngong, it is the second largest international airport in Kenya, mainly serving the coastal region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Kikuyu people are the largest ethnic group in Kenya and are primarily found in central Kenya, including Ngong. They are known for their agricultural practices and business acumen.
The Kisii community is also present in Ngong, known for their strong cultural values and involvement in trade and agriculture.
The Maasai are a semi-nomadic group known for their distinct culture and traditions. They are traditionally herders and have a presence in Ngong due to proximity to national parks.
The Luo community, originally from western Kenya, has migrants settling in Ngong for education and employment opportunities.
The Kalenjin people, known for their prowess in long-distance running, have a presence in Ngong, although they are more concentrated in the Rift Valley region.
The Luhya community, primarily found in western Kenya, has individuals in Ngong, engaging in various economic activities.
The Somali population in Ngong has been growing, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area as they engage in trade and business.
Ngong has seen a diverse range of immigrants from other countries, contributing to the multicultural makeup of the area.
The Soul of Ngong
Discover the essence of Ngong through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Ngong, with many local teams and leagues. The sport is played at various levels, from amateur to semi-professional.
Rugby has a growing following in Ngong, with several clubs participating in local and regional competitions. It is particularly popular among schools and youth organizations.
Basketball is gaining popularity in Ngong, with community courts and local teams fostering interest among the youth. The sport is often played in schools and during community events.
Athletics is highly regarded, especially long-distance running, due to Kenya's strong tradition in the sport. Many young athletes in Ngong aspire to compete at higher levels.
Volleyball is also popular, with several community teams participating in local tournaments. It is a common recreational activity among schools and local clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ngong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Ngong, such as Mama Oliech Restaurant and Artcaffe, offer vegetarian and vegan dishes like vegetable stews, salads, and plant-based burgers.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy gluten-free meals at Artcaffe, where gluten-free bread and pasta are readily available.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ngong with these cultural adventures.