Explore the wonders of Kenya’s Rift Valley: Chepkiit Waterfalls, Iten Viewpoint’s breathtaking vistas, Mount Elgon National Park’s diverse wildlife, and Kakamega Forest’s tropical rainforest. Adventure, nature, and relaxation await in this incredible region.
Experience the Breathtaking Chepkiit Waterfalls
Carved out of the magnificent walls of the Great Rift Valley is the Chepkiit Waterfalls, which loosely translates to “view from above”. Gushing water from River Sosiani cascades 100 m to the floor of the escarpment. With four different viewpoints, it’s the perfect location for a romantic picnic or a bird-seeing excursion. The scenic area is home to various wild animals and is surrounded by all types of rocks and indigenous trees. The waterfalls are in Nandi County, 22km from the hotel.
Iten Viewpoint
Situated at the high altitude of 2,400 m above sea level, the small town of Iten is known for three things: regional honey, being home to training camps for international athletes and the unparalleled viewpoints of the Great Rift Valley. Here is the perfect view of spectacular natural landmarks such as Kerio valley, Lake Kamnarok, Kerio River with its crocodiles, Tugen Hills and Cherangani Hills. Iten viewpoint allows you to see more of the Great Rift Valley than any other place in Africa. Iten is located 50km from the hotel.
Mount Elgon National Park
The landscape of the 169 km² park includes cliffs, waterfalls, caves, gorges, mesas, calderas, hot springs, and of course Mount Elgon, the eight highest mountain in Africa. Famous for the mineral-rich caves visited by elephants, the park is also home to monkeys, small antelopes, buffaloes as well as around 300 bird species. Activities include game viewing, biking, camping, hiking, rock and mountain climbing. The park is located 70 km from the hotel.
Kakamega Forest
The 230 km2 forest is the only tropical rainforest in Kenya and sanctuary to an extraordinary variety of endemic flora and fauna, including insects, reptiles and birds not found anywhere else in Kenya. The forest is home to more than 300 bird species and 400 species of butterfly as well as monkeys, bush bucks, aardvarks, porcupines and giant forest hogs. Other attractions include giant trees – one fig tree is over 700 years old – spectacular waterfalls and hiking trails and picnic areas for visitors.
Where to Stay
For a comfortable and relaxing stay, consider the Iten View Hotel, located near the Iten Viewpoint. The hotel offers stunning views of the Great Rift Valley, comfortable rooms, and excellent service. Alternatively, there are several lodges and campsites in the area, offering a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Book in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
Rift Valley Highlights
Kenya’s Rift Valley offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and exciting adventures like hiking and game viewing in Chepkiit, Iten, Mount Elgon, and Kakamega Forest, perfect for nature lovers and adventure-seekers exploring Kenya’s hidden gems.
