Found in the heart of Elgeyo Marakwet and only 36 Km from Eldoret, Iten is a beautiful haven that sits like a jewel with beautiful scenery and breathtaking sites to behold.
Iten is quite the gem, with roughly a population of 360,000 people, predominantly the Highland Nilotes who are very hospitable, your visit will not be anything short of fun.
It is simply the perfect getaway with your family and friends, though you could also do a solo trip.
If you’re looking for a place filled with tranquillity away from chaotic urban centres, with plenty of nature sightseeing and fun-filled activities, Iten is the perfect place for you.
Kerio Valley National Reserve
Established in 1983, this reserve is the epitome of nature and beauty with its diverse species of flora and fauna.
If seeing wild animals at such close quarters stirs some euphoria in you, this reserve should be first on your bucket list.
It is run by the Kenya Wildlife Service, you only have to pay a small entrance fee, and you’re good to go.
Guards within the reserve will take you on a game drive within the vast reserve where you get to see buffaloes, antelopes, gazelles, zebras, and baboons, the list is endless.
Nature trails are found in plenty, perfect for those treks that will have you lost in serenity, breathing in the crisp air and simply relaxing and unwinding on those heavy thoughts.
I don’t have to remind you to carry a good camera with you, you’re going to need it.
Tambach Museum
Located about 45 kilometres from Eldoret town, the Tambach museum was founded to protect the cultural heritage of the Keiyo and Marakwet people, who ardently seek to adhere to their values.
Despite the changing times and living in a fast-paced world that could possibly erode their values, these people have gone to lengths to ensure the next generations do not forget their way of life.
The museum is home to artefacts that were used in the past including weaponry, farming implements, jewellery and ornaments.
The guides found at the museum will take you through an interesting tale of the history of the Nilotic speakers, from their origin to how they found themselves in that part of the country, and their unique way of life, the myths, taboos and their ceremonies such as weddings and initiations.
It is quite an intriguing story that you wouldn’t want to miss.
Kipteber Mountain
If you’re looking to burn off some calories, then this should be your first stopover.
Set out at the border of West Pokot and Elgeyo Marakwet counties, the mountain is perfect for hiking and picnic activities with a small group of family and friends.
It is a relatively easy mountain to climb even for beginners, and the view once you get on top, is unrivalled, with stunning views of Elgeyo Marakwet and surrounding areas.
A picnic on top of the mountain should give you a unique experience, so carry along some packed food or snacks to rejuvenate, you’ll need them after the hike.
Dense forests are found along the trails with different species of animals and plants, perfect for bird watching with the hundreds of bird varieties and harmless animals like monkeys, not to mention the different plant types.
The dense trails can be the perfect breeding ground for snakes, so exercise some caution as you go about your fun, and bring along some comfortable shoes as the terrain is pretty ragged.
Kerio Valley
No one goes to Iten and fails to visit the renowned Kerio valley.
It has an elevation of roughly 1,000 meters and lies between the Tugen hills and the Elgeyo escarpment. It’s the perfect spot for sightseeing, getting awed by the serenity and beauty of the green vegetation.
A more thrilling activity you can engage in is paragliding, where a paraglider carries you through the valley with you suspended high up in the air.
The sheer thrill is unbeatable especially for the adrenaline junkies, though it’s highly recommended for professionals, as one accident could prove fatal, especially for beginners.
That said, it is relatively expensive to procure the services, but nothing beats the feeling you’ll experience.
The valley is also of historical significance as it bears evidence of the early existence of man, including quite a few number of fossils that have been uncovered over the years.
Kureswo Hot Springs
The Kureswo hot springs are located to the south of Keiyo and are the perfect site 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 engaging like having a bath at the natural hot springs in case the temperatures get too cold.
The springs flow into the Keiyo river from the hills and are quite a spectacular sight.
Within the hills are some caves and rocks, perfect for a group kind of hike, so make sure to bring those hiking shoes with you.
Another intriguing thing to marvel at here is the rock that keeps changing colour, which is a wonder even for the locals.
This is the kind of place you’ll want to keep revisiting, so make sure to take lots of photos for the sake of memories.
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.
Bird watching is highly recommended at the conservancy, where you get to 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 kind of place that will help you unwind without necessarily denting your pocket.
Since the conservancy is locally owned, they charge a small entrance fee but tipping the staff will suffice since the proceeds go towards developing the sanctuary and the local community, which is a win for everyone.
Torok Waterfalls
Located only a few kilometres from Iten town, the Torok waterfalls are a stunning place for sightseeing and water activities.
The best view of the falls you can get is from the Kolol viewpoint.
You can imagine the thrill of seeing waters falling from about 200 meters high and the sounds of rushing waters.
It’s simply beautiful watching the site, furthermore, you could opt for something more engaging such as water activities.
Swimming in the waters is highly recommended, and trust me it beats the feeling of being in an actual pool. This is more fun and just slightly dangerous to get your heart racing.
If you do not shy away from adrenaline-filled activities, or you could go rafting where you try to navigate the waters with an inflatable raft.
It is the perfect spot for team-building activities and will help you bond with your family and friends over beautiful memories and fun-filled activities.
Rimoi National Reserve
You can never get enough of wildlife and nature while in Iten.
Located about 30 kilometres from Iten town along the Eldoret-Kabarnet road, the Rimoi National Reserve is home to different animal species, both common and rare; monkeys, leopards, monkeys, zebras, the list is endless.
You could have the local guards take you on a game drive to see the animals from an up-close view.
Bird watching is also highly encouraged with the varied bird species that flock to the conservancy every so often depending on the season.
Different types of snakes are also found in the conservancy, you’ll actually be in for a surprise by how big they look up close.
An affordable entrance fee is paid at the gate, but feel free to tip any of the staff at the reserve, they do such an exemplary job.
Kilima Resort
A holiday, no matter how small, is never complete without a place to eat, revel and put up even for a night or two.
The Kilima resort is the perfect stopover for all your needs. Located within Iten town, all you have to do is pull up and have every single need of yours catered for.
Their accommodation starts from about Ksh 4000 a night, inclusive of breakfast.
A garden and terrace for your evening sit and talks and early morning views are well mowed with a strategic view of the surrounding areas.
An on-site restaurant is found at the resort, with chefs that have the best culinary skills possible in both local and international cuisines.
A luxurious pool for your swimming escapades is also present. Their facilities are top tier including stable Wi-Fi, ample parking and 24/7 room service.
