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Buffalo Hill
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peak
Buffalo Hill stands as a prominent 606-meter peak within the Ma On Shan Country Park in Hong Kong's New Territories, offering a rugged escape for outdoor enthusiasts. The hill is famous for its distinctive geological features, composed primarily of Kowloon granite that has weathered into bizarre and fascinating shapes. The highlight of any hike here is the Rock Window, a natural stone archway that frames dramatic views of the surrounding valleys and the distant coastline. Reaching the summit involves navigating steep trails, but the reward is a 360-degree panorama encompassing the Sai Kung Peninsula and the sprawling urban landscape. The peak's name reflects its profile, which resembles the head of a buffalo, and the area remains a habitat for feral cattle that roam the grassy slopes. Buffalo Hill is an excellent choice for hikers seeking a combination of challenging terrain, unique rock formations, and scenic vistas.
- Location: Hong Kong SAR China
- Top sights: Buffalo Hill · West Buffalo Hill · Ng's Ancestral Hall
- Nearby: Wong Tai Sin (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 16 | 18 | 20 | 23 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 25 | 22 | 17 |
| Rain mm | 35 | 29 | 69 | 109 | 231 | 288 | 197 | 234 | 173 | 56 | 29 | 21 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The mountain is typically approached via the MacLehose Trail Section 4 or directly from the Siu Lek Yuen area. Accessing the actual trails first requires a fairly lengthy walk from the main roads.
Best season
The late autumn and winter months are generally the absolute best time for this physically demanding trek. During summer, the sheer combination of extremely steep terrain and heat is too dangerous.
Terrain & paths
The trails are notoriously known for their rugged nature, featuring very steep dirt sections and rocky scrambles. Near the summit, the narrow paths can also be heavily overgrown with wild shrubs.
What to bring
Shoes with extremely good grip are mandatory on the loose surfaces, as are long pants to protect against thorny brush. A large supply of water and energy snacks is absolutely indispensable.
Parking
There is generally absolutely no parking available for hikers at the direct starting points of the trails. It is common practice to travel via public transportation to the nearest local settlements.
Safety
The trail network around the mountain is sometimes confusing and poorly marked, making a good GPS map essential. When it rains, the steep dirt paths quickly turn into highly dangerous mud slides.
Time needed
A full round trip across the summit is highly physically demanding and typically takes between four and five hours. Generous time buffers should always be firmly planned for navigation breaks.
Geography
Facts
- Elevation: 337 m (1,106 ft)
- Named for its buffalo-like shape
- Granite and metamorphic schist composition
- Host to rare Hong Kong orchid (Dendrobium candidum)
- Ming dynasty coal mining (1368–1644)
- Average annual temperature: 23 °C (73.4 °F)
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Buffalo Hill (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where does Buffalo Hill get its name?
The mountain resembles the head of a buffalo from certain angles.
What is Buffalo Rock?
A famous rock formation on the summit that looks like a window.
How do I get to Buffalo Hill?
Start from Wong Nai Tau in Sha Tin and follow the hiking trail.
Is the hike strenuous?
It is moderate to strenuous, with some steep sections near the end.
Can you see Sai Kung from there?
Yes, you have a fantastic view of Port Shelter in Sai Kung.
Buffalo Hill: where is it located?
Buffalo Hill is located in Hong Kong SAR China.
Buffalo Hill: what is there to see?
Highlights include Buffalo Hill, West Buffalo Hill, Ng's Ancestral Hall.
Buffalo Hill: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
Buffalo Hill: why is it worth visiting?
Buffalo Hill stands as a prominent 606-meter peak within the Ma On Shan Country Park in Hong Kong's New Territories, offering a rugged escape for outdoor enthusiasts.
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