Things to do in Eldoret and the wider North Rift of Kenya include hiking cliff-edge valleys, spotting rare wildlife and tasting traditional Kalenjin food. From the vibrant city to the serene countryside, this region is full of hidden gems, natural wonders and culinary delights. Here are seven of the best.
7 Best Things to Do in Eldoret and the North Rift
Explore Eldoret’s Markets and Kipchoge Keino Stadium
Eldoret is a bustling city with shopping, cultural events and outdoor activities. A great place to start is the busy marketplaces, where you can sample local foods and shop for souvenirs. It’s one of the most popular things to do in Eldoret.
The city is also known for its athletic prowess. You can catch a glimpse of it at Kipchoge Keino Stadium, a major athletics venue.
2. Hike the Kerio Valley Beyond
Eldoret lies a wealth of hidden gems. One is the Kerio Valley, where you can hike along the steep cliffs and take in breathtaking views of the valley below.
3. Visit Kitale Museum
If you’re interested in history, visit Kitale Museum, which showcases the cultural heritage of the region. Kitale is in neighboring Trans-Nzoia County, so plan it as a day trip.
4. See Chepkiit Falls
For a scenic stop, head to Chepkiit Falls off the Eldoret–Kapsabet road in Nandi County, about 25 km from Eldoret. The falls are most impressive in the rainy season.
Please stay behind the barriers and viewpoints. The rocks are slippery and the drop is dangerous.
5. Spot Rare Wildlife at Saiwa Swamp
National Park If wildlife is your passion, visit Saiwa Swamp National Park, near Kitale. You can spot rare and endangered animals such as the sitatunga antelope and De Brazza’s monkey. It pairs well with the Kitale Museum.
6. Walk Through Kapchorua Forest
For a more adventurous excursion, head to Kapchorua Forest near Nandi Hills. You can hike through the lush forest and look for hidden waterfalls that cascade down the cliffs.
7. Taste Local Kalenjin Cuisine
No trip to the North Rift is complete without the local food, and it’s one of the tastiest things to do in Eldoret. The region is known for maize-based dishes such as ugali and sukuma wiki, often served with meats and vegetables.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try mursik, a fermented milk that is a staple of the Kalenjin people. For a sweet treat, don’t miss mandazi, a fried dough often served with honey or jam.
Tips for Planning Things to Do in Eldoret
Most things to do in Eldoret are within a day’s drive of the city, but the Kitale and Nandi stops are best split across separate days. Eldoret is about six hours from Nairobi by road, or under an hour by air.
Plan Your Trip to Eldoret and the North Rift From vibrant city streets to tranquil countryside, there are plenty of things to do in Eldoret for lovers of culture, nature and good food. Ready to explore? Browse our safari deals or resident packages, or contact our team to plan your North Rift getaway.
