This article highlights various attractions and activities available in Bungoma County, providing a glimpse into the diverse experiences visitors can enjoy, especially on a weekend or any other day. Bungoma County is one of the highly densely populated areas whose main inhabitants are Bukusu people, one of the sub-tribes of the Luhya community.
Established as a trading centre in the early 20th century, the land of Mulembe has a rich history. It is claimed that the name ‘Bungoma’ emanates from drums. The town was a meeting place for the Bukusu elders, who used drums called ‘engoma’ to summon people to meetings. It was, therefore, referred to as the place of drums by the Bukusu, hence the name Bungoma. It is the historical sites, the scenic hills and rivers dotted with interesting waterfalls that make it a superb tourist destination.
Best Places To Visit In Bungoma County
1. Nabuyole Falls (Broderick falls)
Nabuyole is a village located about 10 kilometres from Webuye town in Bungoma County. During the colonial period, it was known as Broderick Falls, named after the first white man who visited the locals and saw the falls. Over time, the locals gave it its current name.
This waterfall is an amazing site that can only be compared to Thompson Falls in Nyahururu. It begins with the River Nzoia, which then breaks up into seven smaller rivers with water flowing at an unimaginable speed. All seven river branches flow and join again to form this large waterfall called Nabuyole. However, visitors are not allowed to go near the waterfall, as it is claimed to have a powerful force that can pull one towards the basin of the waterfall.
2. Hunter’s Paradise Cottages
This is a state-of-the-art facility located about 1 kilometre from Bungoma’s CBD. Whether you’re looking to unwind and relax or have your every need taken care of, this facility has got you covered. You can enjoy swimming in their heated outdoor pool, even if the temperatures drop too low.
In their cottages and luxurious rooms, you can expect 24/7 room service and a strong network connection to keep you connected with the world around you. The chefs at Hunter’s Paradise Cottages can cater to your dietary needs, offering both traditional meals and unbeatable international cuisines. Everything about this place exudes luxury and grandeur, making it perfect for a great holiday experience.
3. Chetambe Fort
The Chetambe Fort played a significant role in the history of the Bukusu and Tachoni tribes during the colonial period. It is said that Chetambe Ifile, a Tachoni warrior, constructed the fort on a hilltop to mobilise his troops and resist British colonial rule, which ultimately led to the 1895 massacre. During the massacre, almost 500 people were killed by British troops. The fort is protected by a 12-foot defensive ditch.
4. Mwikhupo Falls
Found in Tongaren sub-county in Bungoma. One of the places where the River Nzoia flows. It is one of the most elegant places in the central parts of Kenya. The river has a wide variety of scenic features, from where it starts in Moiben to where it ends in Lake Victoria. There’s a cool breeze that emanates from the fall and a large extension of igneous rocks beautifully arranged in layers.
5. Elijah Masinde Mausoleum
You cannot visit Bungoma and fail to encounter the tales of the Rev. Elijah Masinde, of the famed Dini ya Msambwa church. In his hometown, Maeni, about 10 kilometres from Kimilili town, there is a mausoleum in his memory. Masinde’s sect was opposed to white rule. For three years, he hid from British soldiers in a secret bunker that is now a popular crowd-puller. Visit the mausoleum to learn about the history of Elijah Masinde, and to have a glimpse of his traditional artefacts and tools.
6. Mwibale wa Mwanja
It is a solid volcanic rock located in the Kanduyi constituency, about 20km from Bungoma town. This great rock is over 300 feet above the ground and covers an area of over 20 kilometres in circumference. On top, one views the nearest towns, such as Bungoma, Webuye, and Tororo, Uganda, among others. There are also springs emanating from the rock. Tourists who love rock climbing will find this an interesting place to tour.
7. Kakapel Museum
Situated at the Chelemuk Hills, it has prehistoric rock art dating back more than 4,000 years. The ancient rock art depicts wild animals, rainmaking, and initiation symbols, and the site is currently managed by the Trust for African Rock Art and the National Museums of Kenya.
8. Sikele Sya Mulia
This is a massive rock located in Namwacha village, which is approximately 20 km away from Bungoma. This place attracts both local and international tourists, who come to witness the footprints of Mulia, a Bukusu seer. Legend has it that Mulia was an exceptional man with extraordinary abilities, and it is believed that he left his footprints on the rock. Other footprints on the same rock are believed to be of his son, wife, and even some of his domestic and wild animals. This is an ideal place to visit and listen to the stories of the great Mulia.
9. Sang’alo Hills
Most people will tell you that the Sang’alo twin peaks are like the gap in a person’s front teeth, with one peak appearing to clutch a huge rock that looks as if it is about to fall. Several caves add to the beauty of these hills. These hills were formed due to volcanic activity many years ago. There are hundreds of indigenous tree species from which locals and researchers extract herbal medicines. These hills have several peaks where one can climb and view Mumias and Nzoia sugar belts, as well as nearby towns such as Bungoma, webuye and Mumias.
10. Wekelekha Rocks
It is located about 4 kilometres from Bungoma town in Wekelekha village. This place is indeed beautified by these rocks as the huge rocks sit on the smaller rocks. To a stranger, these rocks seem as if they might fall the next second but they are still and strong, as they have stood that way for decades. Several caves around the rocks add to the beautiful scenery of Wekelekha rocks.
11. Kabuchai Hills
Biggest in the region, covering thousands of acres from Nangwe to Marakaru. Found in the Kabuchai constituency, Bungoma County. An area that lacks the glamour and luxury associated with the most tourist posts. Residents believe the hills are a special gift from God and forefathers made sacrifices there to appease ancestors so that they can bring rain.
12. Malakisi Hills
Found within the wondrous Mount Elgon biosphere, not far from where River Malakisi disappears underground at another wonderful place named “Daraja la Mungu,” which, when translated, means the bridge of God, close to another Marvel where footprints on rocks are locally claimed to be those of Jesus. It is partially known because this part of the forest was the battleground for some fierce fighting between the Kenyan army and Sabaot.
13. Chetambe Falls
Found in Webuye, seen from the raised banks of the River Nzoia along the railway line pass. It has a variety of activities, for example, the extraction of sand, the extraction of concrete, and building stones. It is at the forefront of supporting income generation for locals in the area.
14. Kitum Cave
This cave is located in Bungoma county, western Kenya and extends about 200 metres towards Mount Elgon, near the Kenya-Uganda border. This cave became known to many people around the 1980s when some Europeans contracted a bat virus disease, which was named Marburg virus. This cave is one of the largest caves on Mt Elgon. This cave has been widening over time because animals such as elephants, bushbucks, leopards, cheetahs and hyenas always mine the walls for its rich sodium salts.
15. Daraja la Mungu
This place is found in an area near a place known as Kimaeti, where the river Malakisi disappears about 500 metres underground and emerges to continue with its flow. It is believed that the river found a rock with space underground and that is the reason why it disappeared underground for half a kilometre. The most fascinating thing is that one can feel its flow strongly underground. This is a wonder that locals say was a bridge made by God; hence, they gave it the Swahili name “Daraja la Mungu.”
16. Buteyo Miti Park
Buteyo Miti Park is a 32-acre piece of land owned by the residents of Bungoma. The grass is well-maintained, creating a serene environment for guests. The park offers a range of activities, including picnics with family and friends, team-building games and sports, and solo moments for reflection and relaxation. Bird watching is also a popular activity.
The park is home to indigenous trees, and visitors can purchase herbal medicine made from these trees to aid in their healing. This natural remedy is recommended for those who are ill. Notably, the park is an impressive project that promotes environmental conservation, and the proceeds from the sale of herbal medicine and other goods go towards developing the local community. As a gesture of goodwill, visitors are encouraged to donate generously and purchase local products.
17. Mount Elgon National Park
Mt. Elgon National Park is an extinct volcanic mountain situated on the border of Kenya and Uganda. The highest point in Kenya is Lower Elgon at 4,301m above sea level, followed by Koitoboss Peak at 4,222m above sea level. This tourist attraction is a haven for animal and nature enthusiasts. It boasts a vast array of animal species, including elephants, gazelles, monkeys, rhinos, buffaloes, and leopards, to name just a few. The first activity you should undertake upon arrival is game viewing, with guides to drive you through and provide details about the animals you encounter along the way.
The park’s strategic location affords visitors a unique and unrivalled view of nearby Mount Elgon, and the snow caps (which form seasonally) are particularly splendid to see in the morning. No visit to the park is complete without a stop at the famous Kitum cave. The cave is rich in salt minerals, which attract animals like elephants, so don’t be surprised if you run into a herd of them while touring the cave.
The park is also home to over 200 bird species, which you’ll want to see in their flocks, flying around and painting the sky in different shades. Also located within Mount Elgon, Malakisi Falls, is one of the unexplored gems of Bungoma. They are scenic, with rushing waters and lush green vegetation, and make the perfect spot for taking pictures.
18. Teremi Falls
Teremi Falls is another landmark on the tourist map of Bungoma County. The falls are located on the slopes of Mt. Elgon and are approximately 50 km from Bungoma. The name of the falls means ‘instant flow of water downwards’ and has aesthetic and spiritual perceptions among the local community. The vegetation around the falls makes it ideal for tourists who wish to relax in a serene environment.
Cultural Attractions In Bungoma County
Cultural attractions in Bungoma County are diverse. It’s believed that the most attractive aspect of Bungoma County is its culture. When visiting this county, remember to tour Jesus footprints, found on the slopes of Mount Elgon. Of course, we cannot stop talking about cultural attractions without mentioning the circumcision and marriage ceremonies of the Luhya people.
The Bukusu people are considered to be custodians of circumcision rituals among the larger sub-tribes of the Luhya community. The ritual is always conducted every leap year during August. It holds some significant social importance, as it always marks the transition of young men from adolescence to adulthood. It’s always characterised by feasting, traditional dances commonly known as Khutila Kamakari, and rituals like Khuchukhila.
As for funerals among the Luhya people, the ceremony is always accompanied by rituals, from when one dies to when the dead will be buried. One notable thing about this ceremony is Disco Matanga, where family, friends, and community members always gather and keep vigil as they dance to different genres of music, especially at night, celebrating the life that the dead once lived.
Accommodation In Bungoma County
Bungoma has quite a few good hotels that provide good rooms and facilities at the most affordable rates. Some of the noteworthy hotels are Tourist Hotel Bungoma, Hotel Rosswood and Bungoma Countryside Hotel. You will pay an average of Ksh 500 to Ksh 2,000 for accommodation in this area.