The hidden Kenyan Gems in Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, and Nandi Counties

​In my previous feature of Lake Bogoria, I narrated how Geysers are no more. If you did not witness them when they emitted steam over 10meters above the ground, then you are unlucky. At the moment, you will have to drive for almost an hour looking for hot springs. 

​There is no doubt that, geysers were the main attraction at Lake Bogoria National Reserve. However, there are other reasons for you to visit this reserve. Rare wildlife such as, greater Kudu, Klipspringer, etc. are present here. 

The landscape is breathtaking. 

In addition, flamingos have chosen this lake as their home. They are present in numbers and offer a beautiful sighting for visitors. 

​Lake Baringo is about 45km from Lake Bogoria. It is only fair that you pay a visit to both lakes when on this side. You will pass via Marigat town where pure honey is in plenty and authentic. Lake Baringo offers another beauty in Magical Kenya.

​While Lake Bogoria boasts of Millions of flamingos, Lake Baringo harbors several islands. One of the Islands is Parmalok Island, which is owned by one man with 5 wives and 42 children. 

​Lake Baringo also has fishing and boat rides as recreational activities. I witnessed local community fishing, but did not get a chance to ask if it was for food or for sale. 

​The two Lakes are in Baringo County. In case you are wondering where Baringo County borders Nakuru County, it is at Mogotio town centre. 

After enjoying the two Lakes, it was time to go to Eldoret. If you have not taken the Baringo-Kabarnet-Iten-Eldoret route, you do not know what you have been missing. Travelwitheliud and get a glimpse. This road branches at Marigat town centre. It is tarmac all through and an uphill with sharp corners. There is a view point that offers a spectacular view of Lake Baringo. Unfortunately, it rained by the time we got there and could hardly get out of the vehicle.

A few kilometers after the view point, there is a feature worth a stopover. Kirandich, also called Kirr Dam is a man-made water reservoir within a conservancy. ​

​This is a local community initiative geared towards conservation. It was evidenced by the trees planted and the homesteads within the conservancy. 

​At the edge of the dam is Lobaran Shrine. This is an upcoming outdoor facility that aims to provide services such as camping, rock climbing, nature trail, hiking,nyama choma and zipline. 

​Though, it seemed like it wasn’t officially opened, we tried out the zipline, which offered a bird view of the dam. When you use this road next time, am sure it will be a great adventure to try it out.

​When you get to the end of uphill task, you have arrived at the Great Rift Valley. The scenery and landscape here is magical. 

​The meandering of the road is a sight to behold. This road is called SS road because of the curves. The thrill you get while driving down the curves is more than the one you get on Maai Mahiu road. 

​Right at the bottom of the Valley is Chebloch Gorge. This is a crack on the bedrock where Keiyo River passes and it never dries up. During the day, you will find local boys (men) who dive at a fee. If you have panic easily, this is not something you want to see, trust me.

​Before you leave the valley, it is important to pay a visit to Rimoi National Reserve. This is a gem with herds of elephants and a bird watching haven. It is within Elephant and birds migratory corridor. When driving to Rimoi, you will notice a waterfall, which according to the locals is seasonal.

​The park is close to the famous Lake Kamnarok, which is in another conservancy.

​Keiyo River is the border between Elgeyo Marakwet County and Baringo County. 

​On the banks of the river is a campsite. It has flat ground with well manicured grass, semi-permanent tents, washrooms and a kitchen.

​An overnight here will suffice.

​However, it’s made beautiful by the views of Torok falls. This is where paragliding in Kerio valley is done. 

​After a sharp few corners, there is a view point. 

​Here, you get panoramic views of the entire valley.

​There are locals selling fresh farm produce and during my visit, it was mango season.

​Once you are done with the valley, you are right in the home of champions-Iten. This town has a history and it’s a world renowned training centre for athletes. 

There is a resort in Iten called Kerio View. This is where the magic of Kerio Valley is witnessed. The resort has accommodation, a restaurant and a bar.

​It is frequented by athletes from all over the world. 

When you leave the home of champions, you will have left Elgeyo Marakwet County and are on your way to Eldoret town in Uasin Gishu County. This road is a better alternative to the usual Nakuru-Salgaa-Burnt Forest-Eldoret road if you are keen in enjoying Kenyan beauty.
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After spending a night in Eldoret and before you decide whether to return to Nairobi or to continue exploring Kenya; there is a quick glimpse you can get of Nandi County. This County boasts of being the source of champions. 

​A few kilometers on the road to kapsabet is a hidden gem called Chepkiit waterfall. River Kipkaren is not seasonal and this means that you can view Chepkiit falls year round. 

​This waterfall is huge with a lot of water. The force at which the water hits the bed rock is so impactful that it produces rainbows.

​The tourism department in Nandi County is enhancing the experience at the falls by building recreational facilities around it. 

Next time you visit Eldoret, make sure you pay this fall a visit and you can access it via public means.

Until next time, keep travelling….




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