Lush green scenery and thick vegetation are what define Kisii county. Located in the southwestern part of Kenya and around 200 km from Nakuru, Kisii is home to roughly 1.1 million people of varied ethnic communities.
The list of fun and thrilling activities to engage in here is quite endless.
So if you’re looking for a getaway for your family or simply somewhere different for a change, Kisii has you covered at affordable prices, so hold on tight as I take you through a list of these places.
You’ll be amazed by how much the seemingly subtle place offers.
Hiking the Manga Hills
Located towards the border of Kisii and Nyamira, Manga hills form the ideal location for adrenaline junkies and those who marvel at stunning sites.
Looking for a place to burn off some calories as well? Manga hills should be your first stop over for some hiking activity. You’ll feel well rewarded once you get on top thanks to the beautiful scenery.
The hills give you an unrivalled view of vast green lands that stretch for acres.
The vegetation makes it the perfect site for nature trails as well, breathing in the crisp fresh air and listening to the chirping of birds, something that most of us hardly get to enjoy in the busy chaotic urban centres.
So to say, visiting the Manga hills is a rare opportunity to get inbound with nature and simply marvel at the beauty that the vegetation offers.
Visiting Nyangweta Forest
This is an expansive piece of land that stretches for 104 hectares of pure lush vegetation. The forest is located in the southern part of Gucha and is one of the major tourist attraction centres that Kisii has to offer.
Nothing comes close to beating the feeling of trekking inside such a dense forest, from the serenity and tranquillity to the sheer change in scenery, it’s all to die for.
The forest is home to varied bird species, so bird watching should be the first activity you engage in.
Ever thought of camping in the woods? This is the perfect location for that, and security should be the least of your worries.
It’s completely safe, so you don’t have to wonder about walking straight into a pack of predators.
The green vegetation also forms the ideal background for photography sessions, and we all know that there’s no better way to reminisce other than over some good photos.
River Gucha
Fascinated by the sounds of rushing waters and the swell of currents in water bodies? Look no further.
River Gucha starts from the Mogonga Highlands and drains into Lake Victoria. The river forms quite a scenic view, you’ll be intrigued by its beauty.
The river well serves the surrounding community and is also the perfect spot for water expeditions.
It’s very common to see locals diving into the waters, especially when the weather gets unbearably hot on a sunny day. You could also give it a try, trust me it’s way more thrilling than being in an actual pool.
Once you’re done swimming, you can take a walk along the banks and enjoy the sounds produced by the waters as it rushes by.
Visit the Tabaka Soapstone Mining Site
If you’re in doubt about the unique sites that Kisii has to offer, the Tabaka soapstone mining site should be your first stop.
Located about 24 kilometres from Kisii town, the site is well known for its soapstone mining activities. You should visit the place to see how soapstone is excavated and the refining process it goes through.
The extracted stone is then used to make carvings that would form stunning artefacts in one’s home. The artisans are so skilled they can literally carve anything out of the soapstone.
The mining site helps the local community generate a decent living from selling their wares, so do not forget to generously tip the artisans as well as carry some artefacts home.
Trust me, it’s worth it. Furthermore, Tabaka is actually the leading soapstone mining site in Kenya.
Marvel at the Nyakwana Falls
Nyakwana Falls is a stunning site located along the river Gucha and is one of the few waterfalls located in Kisii.
Watching the waters rush by will actually have you intrigued, and you can talk a walk around to climax your interaction with nature.
The spot is perfect for outings with family and close friends, not to mention the amazing photos you can take with the stunning background to at least stock up on the memories.
Picnicking beside such beauty would top up the visit and strengthen the bond among the friends you come along with.
Kamel Park Hotel
Anyone who has visited the Kamel Park Hotel has a positive response to give.
The state-of-the-art facility is located some twenty minutes away from Kisii town and has one of the most luxurious facilities that a resort could offer.
The hotel is actually rated as five-star, so if you’re looking to have a lavish getaway filled with pomp and leisure, this should be your choice.
First, they have an airstrip, so their guests come and leave at their convenience without worrying about traffic snarls eating into their time.
Their pool is located within the resort, so you need not worry about rising temperatures, all you have to do is take a dip.
The accommodation facilities are top tier, not to mention the friendly staff who will give you the feel of ‘home away from home.’
Something that defines a good hotel or resort is its culinary skills, and Kamel park doesn’t disappoint.
Their chefs are well skilled in making both local and international cuisines that will have you craving for second helpings.
Security is ample and so is the parking and other amenities such as Wi-Fi, so all you have to do is relax, unwind, and let the staff cater for your every need.
Relax at the Kisii Golf Club
This is yet another world-class facility that Kisii has to offer. It’s where the who’s of the who’s go to unwind and spend their spare time. So if you’re a golf fanatic, you might want to stop here and interact with their nine-hole golf course.
Luxurious amenities are also located on-site, so you don’t have to worry about traversing from place to place looking for certain facilities.
They have a well-heated pool to cater for you in case of high humid temperatures.
If you’re looking to shed off some calories, their gym, which is well-equipped, won’t disappoint. It’s simply the perfect place to unwind or vent off some of the week’s frustrations.
They also have an on-site restaurant that offers a wide array of sumptuous meals to cater for your needs after a day full of high-energy activities. The Kisii golf club is simply your ideal recreational spot.
Nyamasibi and Sameta hills
If you’re thinking that Kisii has an endless list of nature places to visit, then you’re absolutely right.
Nothing beats an interaction with nature more than a hike up a hill with stunning views and numerous nature trails, so bring your hiking shoes along.
The Nyamasibi hills are about 2100 meters high, so going up will stretch your muscles a little and give you an unrivalled view of the vast Kisii land and its environs.
What’s more is that you can set camp for a night or two, listen to the crickets outside at night and breathe in the cool breeze.
The Sameta hills are similar to Nyamasibi in that they give plenty of chances for hiking activities, and are the perfect getaway with family and friends.
You can even carry packed lunch and have a picnic with your loved ones as you enjoy the serenity of the entire place.
If you opt for solitude, the hills aren’t crowded, so you get to have as much time as you want to yourself, simply rejuvenate and organize your thoughts before heading back.
Itibo Resort
If you’re looking for a more affordable accommodation facility, you might want to consider the Itibo resort.
Accommodation is roughly six thousand a night with breakfast, and you’ll feel well compensated through their services. The resort is located about 9 kilometres from the Kisii CBD, so distance won’t be an issue.
Within the property is a garden where you can relax and view the scenery. Their room service is 24 hrs so in case of emergencies they tend to their guests without hesitation.
A children’s playground is also located on-site; therefore, should you happen to tag your children along, they will have a place to burn off their energy while you have some alone time to reconnect and rejuvenate.
Wi-Fi is strong and stable for you to keep up with the happenings of the world as you enjoy your stay
Finally, the resort is known for having ample parking spaces, and security for your property is also guaranteed.
Once you have enough of Kisii County, Kericho should be the next place on your radar as it is only 87 km away.
