Top tourist destinations in Kakamega County are listed below. Given that it is home to more than 10 indigenous sub-tribes, Kakamega is one of Kenya’s counties with the most diversified cultures. Any admirer of nature will fall in love with the county’s stunning landscape.
The top tourist destinations in this county may include;
1.The Crying Stone
On the Kakamega-Kisumu Road, at Ilesi, stands the Crying Stone. It is a well-liked destination for both tourists and residents. A sizable boulder is perched on a sizable rock column, down which ‘tears’ run, to create the formation, which resembles a melancholy head resting on worn-out shoulders. It is a rare occurrence, yet water cascades down from the top of the enormous, towering basil. It is the petrified picture of a woman who has been dumped and is still mourning what happened to her, according to myth.
2. Malava Forest
The area along Kakamega-Webuye Road is a tropical forest. It measures about ten hectares in size. Escape from Kakamega town is possible thanks to Malava Forest. There are many different trees in the forest, each with a unique name like Nkondo, Elingaa, and Somboo. It also has a large animal population, including birds, baboons, and monkeys. Nature enthusiasts are drawn to this area. It’s a nice location for nature hikes and bird watching.
3. Masinde Muliro Gardens
This well-known garden is stunning and features a variety of tropical species, including the bamboo tree. Ideal for picnics and team-building exercises, this lovely garden. Founded in 1930 by colonial gold prospectors, the park is open to the public and has a long history. In the same year that Kenya attained independence, the park received its current name. Elijah Masinde Muliro, a Western Kenyan freedom fighter, was the inspiration for the park’s name. In 2002, it was designated a national museum site.
4. Nabongo Cultural Center
Unquestionably one of Kakamega’s must-see attractions is the Nabongo Cultural Center. The center was established in 2008 to consider the kingdom of Eshiembekho in Matungu’s past and present practices. Nabongo was the Wanga or Abawanga people’s ruler and cultural monarch. In Kenyan history, this is a subtribe of the Luhya people. The structures that welcome guests to the compound have a modern appearance at first look, but when one explores the center, the historic features stand out.
5. Rosterman Mines
The gold mines, which are situated along the Kakamega-Mumias route, offer a rare chance to observe the local gold-mining business firsthand. The county administration has banned industrial mining, but people still come to the mines, including tourists and students.
6. Isiukhu Falls
It is a tiny waterfall that can be seen in Kakamega Forest. Everyone wants to climb the difficult rocks and get as near to the stunning sight of Isiukhu Falls as possible when they hear the sound of water rushing down them. Regarding observation adventures, it is one of the most visited natural sites in Kakamega. This is where one can take some time out of their busy schedules and immerse themselves in nature’s beauty.
7. Ilesi Pottery Centre
Renowned potters, the Isukha and Idhaho Sub Tribes of the Luhya, have restored this ancient trade into a booming industry that creates a bewildering assortment of exquisitely sculpted earthenware. Aside from their practical use, the wares make the excellent decor. Visitors can also watch craftsmen at work or explore nearby Ikhongo Murue off Kisumu-Kakamega Road.
8. Kakamega Forest National Reserve
For the Kakamega Forest, a piece of the rain forest that once covered much of Central Africa, time has held still. Numerous mammals live in this lovely forest, including pottos, colobus monkeys, Debrazzar monkeys, gigantic forest hedgehogs, and bush pigs. The Blue Headed Bee Eater, Black Billed Turaco, Turner’s Eremomela, and Grey Parrots are a few of the birds that may be observed here. Among the activities available are rock climbing, hiking, and bird watching which can enjoyed here in the serenity of the forest that time forgot.
9. Rondo Retreat Center
It is a pleasant and tranquil retreat center for those who love the outdoors. It is a great place for birding because it is home to numerous endangered plant and bird species. Alcohol is not permitted inside Rondo, a Christian center run by Trinity Fellowship. Rondo can serve up to 35 people, but it can also accommodate up to 50 pax for lunch or dinner and it offers a conference facility for a small groups. This retreat is an ideal place for Missionaries and Tourists visiting the Kakamega forest.
