Makueni County is found in the southeastern part of Kenya, approximately 345 km from Nairobi. The county co-hosts three of the world’s best-known wildlife habitats; Tsavo East, Tsavo West, and Chyulu Hill National Park. Makueni County is packed with unique tourist attractions and here’s a list of the top 10 places to visit in Makueni County.
1) Sikh Temple Makindu
The Sikh Temple is found along the Nairobi-Mombasa highway, approximately 170 km from Nairobi. It was built in 1926 by Sikhs who were working on the construction of the Kenya-Uganda railway. The temple consists of a holy Sikh shrine, a huge dining area that serves free food (known as ‘hangar’) throughout the day, and rooms with beds that are available, for free, to anyone for up to 2 days.
2) Makongo Valley Viewpoint
Makongo Valley is a 40 km long valley located along the Machakos-Makindu road. It’s one of the most scenic places in Makueni County and offers a spectacular all-around viewpoint of the landscape that makes up Makueni. The valley is also the location of the famous Snake Road in Wote.
3) Chyulu Hill National Park
Chyulu Hill National Park sits between Tsavo West National Park and Amboseli National Park. It’s popularly known as the Green Hills of Africa owing to its lush rolling hills stretching as far as the eyes can see. The park is home to a number of wildlife such as; elephants, elands, giraffes, forest hogs, leopards, and over 100 species of birds, among others. It’s the ideal destination for game viewing, birdwatching, hiking, and camping.
4) Kivungoni Springs
Kivungoni Springs is a reservoir found in Muatini village, 3 km off Kibwezi-Kitui road. The spring is an unique phenomenon in Kibwezi because the area is predominantly semi-arid. Kivungoni Springs and its surrounding area provide a unique opportunity for taking scenic nature walks, boat rides, and fishing.
5) Mbiu Nzau Hills
Mbiu Nzau Hills is a spectacular range of hills found approximately 5 km from the Kibwezi Junction, along the Nairobi-Mombasa highway. With an elevation of 1,369 m above sea level, the hills are a scenic viewpoint and also make for a good hiking experience. It’s also considered a sacred site where the Akamba used to pray and offer sacrifices.
6) Peterson Camp Ruins
Peterson Camp Ruins is located in Mtito Andei, off the Nairobi-Mombasa highway. It’s popularly known as ‘Ikulu’ which is Swahili for State House. This is because the house was where former president Jomo Kenyatta used to rest while traveling and visiting the lower parts of the former Eastern Province. It’s now a historical site that attracts lots of tourists.
7) Ka Kindui Falls
Ka Kinui Falls is found on Ka Kindui River on Kilome Hills, located approximately 100 km from Nairobi. It features 5 different waterfall drops and an insane hiking path to see all of them. It starts with a 15-meter drop, followed by a 10-meter drop, then the ‘Dare Devils’ waterfall which is a 30-meter vertical drop. Followed by two other similar drops. It’s quite the experience.
8) Mbooni Hills
Mbooni Hills are found west of Kilyungi and southeast of Kikima, near Kikima dam. The hills have an elevation of 1,932 meters making it an ideal destination for hiking. The summit of the hills offers a beautiful viewpoint of Makueni’s landscapes. Plus, the hill is covered by Mbooni Forest which is a haven for various birdlife that you can spot as go birdwatching.
9) Kilima Kiu Manor
Kilima Kiu Manor is a boutique country home nestled in Malili area, on the foot of Kilima Kiu Hill. Kilima Kiu means ‘that hill’ and the destination offers the chance to take nature walks, hiking, and biking during your stay in the manor. The manor was built by Sir Frank Joyce, who arrived in Kenya in 1911. Since then, it has changed owners but still maintains its serene environment and luxurious accommodation.
10) Kenya’s First AIC Missionary Church
In Makueni, specifically Kalamba village, there’s the first AIC Missionary Church in Kenya. The church, AIC Kalamba, was constructed in 1895 by Peter Cameron Scott and is believed to have pioneered the emergence of Christianity in Kenya.
I am a charismatic 23-year-old student at the University of Nairobi. I enjoy traveling be it planned or impromptu. I also enjoy partying. I'll be there with a drink in my cup all through the night, chasing the sun. Life's too short not to choose the fast lane. Carpe diem!
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