Kericho is the biggest town in South Rift region. It is located in the highlands west of the Kenyan Rift Valley and has an estimated population of 901,777 according to the 2019 census report. It is home to the popular Kenyan tea and is headed by Governor Paul Chepkwony.
If you are wondering where to visit this Christmas season, here are the top 10 best places to consider.
Here is a list of 10 best places to visit in Kericho County in 2019
1. Chebulu Conservancy
It is located in Sigowet. It consists of Chebulu forest, a rainforest which covers about 21 kilometres. The conservancy was set aside as community property and water tower for Chebulu river. Notable attractions at the conservancy include; monkeys, baboons, different species of birds, a campsite and rocks suitable for hiking activities.
2. Tagabi Monkey Sanctuary
It is home to the most welcoming primates in Kenya. It is home to vervet monkeys which can be spotted roaming freely within the sanctuary. A nature trail is also located within the sanctuary.
3. Fort Ternan Museum
It is an archaeological and prehistoric site located about 3 kilometres from the Londiani-Muhoroni road. Fossils of the ancient man Kenyapithecus were discovered at the site by Dr. Louis Leakey in 1962. It also features exhibitions of early stone tools and artefacts used by the early man.
4. Tulwap Kipsigis
It is a cultural site located along the Kipkelion- Londiani junction. It is an important monument in the history of the Kipsigis, a sub-tribe of the Kalenjin ethnic group. It is an important site where the Kipsigis rekindle and revisit their ancient cultural practices of circumcision and worship to God.
5. Chagaik Arboretum
It is formed by lush green grass and indigenous trees surrounded by tea plantations. Its beautiful and serene environment is ideal for picnics, sightseeing and birding activities.
6. Kapkatet Museum
The museum was established in 2008 to appreciate and preserve the rich culture of the Kipsigis people. It is located in Kapkatet town. It features galleries and exhibitions of artefacts and other traditional merchandise used by the Kipsigis during the early years.
7. Mau Forest
It is the largest indigenous montane forest in East Africa. Several rivers such as Sondu River, Njoro River, Mara River and Ewaso Ng’iro originate from the forest. The forest is home to a variety of birds and wild animals. It is an ideal destination for bird watching and nature walk adventures.
8. Tea Plantations and Tea Factories
You can visit the beautiful tea plantations in Kericho County and have a glimpse of how tea is planted and harvested. You can also visit the numerous tea factories such as Kabianga factory, Mau tea factory and Ketepa tea factory to have an idea of how tea is processed.
9. Kimugu River Lodge
It is aesthetically created with Kipsigis culture in a rural environment that borders the beautiful Kimugu River. It is a nice place to relax, engage in fun-filled activities, to learn the Kipsigis culture and to enjoy the magnificent views of Kimugu River.
10. Uhuru Gardens
It is a public park located in Kericho town. It is a beautiful garden where you can relax and enjoy the cool breeze and atmosphere of Kericho County. It is also ideal for picnics and team building activities.
Author: Kibet Kigen