Approximately 500 km (310 mi) from the capital Nairobi, the Kerio Valley straddles the western escarpment of the Kenyan Rift Valley, dropping a spectacular 1219 meters between the Tugen hills and the Elgeyo escarpment. My best memories were the breathtaking views while being driven in what I would rate as one of Kenya’s most scenic road. Riding down the winding road, I got to experience the unending twists and turns as the road snakes through a stunning and dramatic stretch of landscape, thronged with rugged hills upon hills, misty waterfalls, towering cliffs and massive basalt formations.
Fortunately, I never suffered from any sort of motion sickness and loved every minute of the drive. These are some of my favorite images from the trip.
When I got my driving license I made it my mission to travel to places I’d never been to before. One of my favorite spot was the majestic Torok Falls. Plunging an impressive 200 meters from the top of the cliff, Torok Falls is most spectacular in the rainy season, when a cloud of spray and mist rises from the forest below.
With towering hills, lush green vegetation interspersed with a mix of numerous peaks and valleys there seems to be water flowing around every corner. Nestled in the indigenous lush green forests is the Kessup Falls, secluded, beautiful and pristine it’s amazing to find such a beautiful place nearly untouched! The forest is home to a variety of primates, such as the Colobus and Diademed monkeys and plenty of bird species too. Besides enjoying the breathtaking falls and surrounding scenery, one can take a plunge at the pool below for a refreshing swim on a hot day.
Hiking is also a great way to explore these hills and valleys, you get to traverse through sections of scrub-land, open farmlands and lush forests. Some are quite gentle though a few are quite steep both requiring a reasonable level of physical fitness and effort.
Kenya has plenty to offer on the wildlife front, but sometimes it is nice to get away from the typical beach or safari circuit and experience pure nature. Kerio Valley awaits your exploration, offering an excellent opportunity to savor the magnificent Rift Valley landscape. Do not forget to carry your camera for the excellent photographic opportunities.
source: safari254.com
