Here is a list of the best places to visit in Elgeyo Marakwet County. Elgeyo Marakwet County is made up of four constituencies: Marakwet East, Marakwet West, Keiyo East, and Keiyo South. Iten town is the capital of the county. Elgeyo Marakwet is best known for producing some of Kenya’s top athletes throughout history, with training facilities such as the Iten high-altitude training camps making it a major destination for sports tourism.
The county is also popular among eco-tourists due to its ecological diversity, with the Kerio Valley National Reserve and Rimoi Game Reserve attracting many visitors each year. Below is a list of the best places to visit in Elgeyo Marakwet County.
Best Places To Visit In Elgeyo Marakwet County
1. Tambach Museum
Tambach is Kenya’s oldest town. It was founded in the 1920s as a British colonial administration centre for the Elgeiyo and Marakwet peoples. The Elgeiyo and Tambach Escarpments, the Tugen Hills, and the Kerio River can all be seen from this museum. It depicts the cultural life and political structures of the Kalenjin people. It also reflects the region’s reputation as a source of world-class long-distance runners.
The museum was established to protect the Tambach heritage site as well as the culture of the Keiyo and Marakwet people. Tambach has a rich cultural heritage. It is famous for the Sirikwa Holes, which were built by the Sirikwa people in the 17th and 18th centuries. It also has a rich colonial history. NMK renovated the former District Commissioner’s residence, a seven-roomed bungalow, in 2003 to create an exhibition space for Elgeiyo Marakwet County’s ethnographic and archaeological collections.
The Tambach Heritage Town Exhibition is the museum’s inaugural exhibition. The exhibitions highlight Tambach’s development during the colonial and independence periods, as well as the factors that influenced its growth, decline, and current resurgence. The exhibition also delves into the culture (past and present) of its Keiyo and Marakwet residents. It examines their way of life, livelihoods, and traditions within the context of the Keiyo Valley.
2. Iten Viewpoint
Iten Viewpoint, located on the outskirts of town, provides spectacular views of the Keiro Valley as well as the Tugen Hills, which run parallel to the Keiyo Escarpment. Tiati Mountain rises to 2173 metres at the northern end of the Tugen Hills. To the south, at the valley’s head, you can see the forested slopes of Kapkut and Kipkanyilat, through which flow the rivers that give rise to the Kerio River. The river itself is barely visible, winding through the valley’s bush 1000 metres below. You may also notice the seasonal Lake Kamnarok at the valley’s bottom. At the valley’s base, you may also notice the seasonal Lake Kamnarok. There is also a nice bar and a small restaurant where you can buy food and drink to enjoy while admiring the breathtaking views.
3. Chebloch Gorge
Chebloch Gorge is about 39 kilometres from Iten and is the place to go for a “heart in your mouth” experience. Local youths jumping into the gorge for fun realised years ago that they were attracting many onlookers. Some of these onlookers admired their daring stunts and would reward them by dropping them gifts.
Subsequently, in 2013, the young men came up with the idea of making this into their livelihood and started charging 50 shillings each to watch them dive. Now known as the Chebloch Gorge divers, these young men perform gymnastic dives from over 20 metres into the narrow stretch of water below. (The actual depth of the water under the surface is unknown.) Apart from the life-threatening dives off the cliffs, the water in the gorge is crocodile-infested. So there’s no relaxing in the water once they’ve safely completed the dive! Going to watch the cliff jumpers at Chebloch Gorge is worth a visit and very entertaining, but not for the faint-hearted.
The Kerio River flows through Chebloch Gorge, which connects the Rift Valley and the Kerio Valley. Because there is no parking, you must park on the road in a safe location and walk to the bridge that crosses the gorge. There are usually a lot of locals around with small shops (kiosks) selling fruit and other items, but when they see more tourists, they flock and surround you, so be prepared.
4. Rimoi National Reserve
The Rimoi National Reserve is about an hour’s drive from Iten, on the escarpment of the Rift Valley in Elgeyo Marakwet County. This relatively small, protected animal conservation reserve, covering an area of 66 square kilometres, is best known for its large herds of elephants. It also has zebras, warthogs, impalas, monkeys, a variety of reptiles, and an abundance of beautiful birds. Elephants typically travel in small groups, but a herd of Rimoi elephants can number up to a hundred. So your chances of seeing some in this reserve are pretty good. The only way to safely approach these wild creatures is with armed and knowledgeable reserve rangers who track the elephants expertly. It’s incredible to see these incredible animals in their natural habitat. If you want to experience this type of adventure, you can stay at the Crocodile Camp.
5. Torok Waterfall
Torok Waterfall is located 21 kilometres south of Iten in the unspoiled countryside of Elgeyo Marakwet County, surrounded by lush, tropical vegetation. If you enjoy waterfall hunting as well as some physical exertion, a hike up to this waterfall is well worth the effort. It’s one of the highest natural waterfalls in this part of the country, standing over 200 metres high and cascading down to join the Kerio River. The spectacular views along the hike certainly help to take your mind off the fairly steep slopes as you ascend. After about two hours, you will arrive at the base of the falls, where there are plenty of nice spots to sit, take a breather, and enjoy the beautiful waterfall. As well as the impressive views out over the Great Rift Valley.
6. Kureswo Hot Springs
Kureswo hot springs, located south of Keiyo, are ideal for sore eyes. You could sit by the springs and marvel at the wonder of water naturally heating up from the ground, or you could do something more exciting, such as taking a bath in the natural hot springs if the temperatures become too cold. The springs that flow into the Keiyo River from the hills are quite beautiful. There are caves and rocks in the hills that are ideal for a group hike, so bring your hiking shoes. Another fascinating thing to see here is the rock that changes colour, which even the locals find amazing.
7. Kapkurmoi Conservancy
The Kapkurmoi Wildlife Sanctuary was set up in early 2008 by the local community to rescue endangered game species, though it’s still home to a wide variety of animals, including; antelopes, gazelles, zebras, chimpanzees, and monkeys. If you’re not easily irked by reptiles, you should visit their snake park, which is home to a wide variety of snake species.
The conservancy’s bird watching is highly recommended, as you can see hundreds of flocks of both common and rare birds. The Kapkurmoi Conservancy is simply the place to go if you’re looking for a low-key place to unwind without necessarily breaking the bank. Because the conservancy is locally owned, they charge a small entrance fee, but tipping the staff will suffice because the proceeds benefit both the sanctuary and the local community, which is a win-win situation for everyone.
8. Kerio Valley National Reserve
Kerio Valley National Reserve is a protected area within the Kerio Valley, a branch of the Great Rift Valley. The vast valley was established as a reserve in 1983 and has since seen a rise in wildlife due to this initiative. Kerio Valley lies between the Cherangani Hills and the Tugen Hills, with the Elgeyo Escarpment rising more than 1,830 metres above the valley in places and being 4,000 feet deep. It has semi-tropical vegetation on the slopes, while the floor of the valley is covered by dry thorn bush.
The reserve is on the west side of the crocodile-infested Kerio River, while the Lake Kamnarok National Reserve is on the east side. The reserve has dramatic scenery and prolific birdlife. Other attractions include; elephants, buffaloes, pelicans, and little grebes in a backdrop of beautiful landscapes. The best time to visit this area is in July and August, when the rains have ended and the temperatures are not excessive. Kerio Valley National Reserve, also known as Kerio Valley National Park, is managed by The Kenya Wildlife Service
9. Kipteber Mountain
Kipteber Hill (often referred to as Mount Kipteber) is a rocky hill that sits on the border of Elgeyo-Marakwet and Pokot counties. It lies about five kilometres away from the range of Cherangany hills. It is also the place allegedly where an unidentified flying object ( UFO) crashed. The hill juts out from a plain, and on one side it has a fairly steep cliff facing West Pokot County, while the other side slopes gradually towards Elgeyo Marakwet County. Its form has been associated with the hump of a zebu bull. Local legend states that the hill was originally never there and that it once fell from the sky.
The legend of “the rock-fall at Kipteber” is often told in northern Kalenjin communities and more so within the Marakwet and Pokot communities. Sometimes the tale is referred to as ‘What is this bird saying?’. In the narrative, it is said that a long time ago, two communities lived in the area and were having a ceremony. One of these is often associated with the Talai clan. As the celebrations went on, a crow appeared among the revellers and gave a warning for three days, which most of those at the party ignored.
The warning was that they should leave the party, as a big rock was about to fall from the sky. Some people, however, in certain accounts, including one pregnant woman, listened to the crow and left. Just in time, for it so happens that a huge rock fell from the sky and crushed all those who were still at the party. This rock, it is believed, can be seen where it fell and is today called Mount Kipteber.
10. Kerio Valley
Nobody goes to Iten without seeing the famous Kerio Valley. It is located between the Tugen Hills and the Elgeyo escarpment and has an elevation of about 1,000 metres. It’s an ideal location for sightseeing, with the serenity and beauty of the green vegetation taking your breath away. Paragliding is a more thrilling activity in which a paraglider carries you through the valley while you are suspended high in the air.
The sheer thrill is unrivalled, especially for adrenaline junkies, but it is highly recommended for professionals only, as one accident could be fatal, especially for beginners. Having said that, the services are relatively expensive, but nothing beats the sensation you’ll get. The valley is also historically significant because it contains evidence of man’s early existence, including a large number of fossils discovered over time.
11. Kerio View Hotel
Kerio View Hotel, on the outskirts of Iten, is perfectly placed on the edge of the Kerio escarpment to give the most spectacular views across the valley. Accommodation consists of rooms or cottages and there is a vibrant restaurant/bar that serves food and drink from early morning until late evening. The staff is friendly and attentive and the food is good, simple, and tasty, although there are not a lot of vegetarian options. Located next door to a centre for elite athletes, the hotel is always buzzing with athletes and coaches as well as locals and tourists.
The hotel decor is very authentic and modern, with many athletic art pieces and iconic photographs. There is artwork on the grounds of the hotel, along with pretty walks and beautiful views over the Rift Valley. So, whether you choose to stay here or just call in for some food/drink, with its great ambience and breathtaking views, Keiro View Hotel has to be on the bucket list of things to do in Iten.
12. Cherangani Hills
The hills traverse three counties; West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, and Trans Nzoia. The ecosystem features beautiful subtropical indigenous forests with diverse wildlife and bird species. Several caves and hiking sites are located within the hills.
13. Wewo Catholic Church
Wewo Catholic Church is situated in Embotut, Elgeyo Marakwet County. It is famously referred to as the Church in the Clouds, owing to its location on the edge of a cliff. The church building is dove-shaped, which is a universally recognized symbol of peace. Watching the sunrise at Wewo Catholic Church in Elgeyo Marakwet, also known as the Church on a Hill, while standing on its edge and overlooking Kerio Valley is an awe-inspiring sight to behold.
14. Kessup Falls
The beautiful Kessup Falls are nestled in the indigenous lush green forests along the Elgeyo escarpment. They are secluded, beautiful and pristine. It’s amazing to find such a beautiful place nearly untouched. To get to Kessup Falls, take a matatu from the Turin Supermarket or opposite fire station (150bob to Kessup) then ask for directions from locals to the trail of the waterfall.
15. Sugut Springs
The attraction is famously known for producing natural Soda Water from the underground. It’s a wonder to never forget.
