Information
Landmark: Chepkiit WaterfallsCity: Eldoret
Country: Kenya
Continent: Africa
Chepkiit Waterfalls, Eldoret, Kenya, Africa
Overview
Tucked away in Nandi County, Kenya, Chepkiit Waterfalls spills over dark rocks in a shimmering cascade, drawing curious travelers from nearby villages and far-off countries alike.Only 26 kilometers from Eldoret and a quick 2-kilometer drive from the international airport, the falls spill into a lush green hollow, drawing visitors who crave both the rush of adventure and the hush of quiet.The Chepkiit Waterfalls draw their strength from the Kipkaren River, which plunges over a sheer 70-meter cliff, roaring as it crashes into the spray below.A towering waterfall dominates the valley, framed by bright green hills and jagged rock faces.In the rainy season, when the water crashes down in a roaring white curtain, it’s nothing short of breathtaking.Scenic Views: Around the falls, you’ll find several spots to take in the rush of water and the wide green sweep of the valley below.In Kalenjin, the name “Chepkiit” means “view from afar,” a nod to the striking way the falls can be seen from miles away, mist curling in the air.From the lookout, visitors take in wide, glinting stretches of the Sosiani River and the rolling hills and thick forests that spread across the region.Natural beauty surrounds the region, with wild orchids in the meadows and deer moving quietly through the trees.Dense greenery surrounds the falls-tall trees, tangled shrubs, leaves whispering in the breeze-giving the place a wild, untouched beauty.Rocky cliffs rise around the waterfall, their edges framed by thick, green foliage, creating an inviting place for nature lovers, photographers, and hikers to wander and explore.Hiking at Chepkiit Waterfalls is a treat, with winding trails that open to sweeping views of the river valley and the lush, whispering forest around it.Getting to the waterfall takes a bit of a hike, but wandering past mossy rocks and through the quiet trees makes every step worth it.If you’re in the mood to unwind and take in the view, Chepkiit Waterfalls makes a perfect picnic spot, with the sound of rushing water in the background.Cool mist drifts from the falls as water tumbles down, and together they wrap visitors in a quiet, peaceful calm.With its misty air and echoing cascades, the falls attract a wide variety of birds, making it a perfect spot to watch them swoop or perch and snap a few memorable photos.With the waterfall tumbling behind it, the scenery is stunning-and it’s a perfect spot to snap a photo.Adventure comes alive here-the steep, uneven ground and the rush of a nearby stream invite rock climbing or cave exploration, but you’ll need a local guide to navigate them safely.The waterfall may look calm and breathtaking, with mist curling in the air, but it’s also known for its danger after several tragic accidents.The rocks near the falls turn slick underfoot, and with no railings to guard the edge, accidents happen-especially in the rainy season, when the roar of rushing water grows louder and the current runs fast.Visitors should take care around the falls, keeping a safe distance from the edge where the roar and spray can make the rocks slick.Officials are being pushed to roll out safety measures for tourists, like putting up sturdy barriers or bright warning signs near risky spots.It’s easy and affordable to visit the falls-Kenyan adults pay KES 200, children KES 100, foreign visitors KES 500, and groups of 30 or more just KES 50 each-and the gates open every day at 8 a.m., closing at 6 p.m., when the light softens over the water.Visit during the day, when the sun lights up the hills, so you can take in the view and stay safe while you explore.You can reach Chepkiit Waterfalls by road from Eldoret-just hop in a taxi or climb onto a rumbling boda boda.It’s usually a 30–40 minute drive, though a sudden downpour or heavy traffic can stretch it longer.The road to the falls is bumpy, with loose gravel crunching under your tires, so it’s best to go with a local guide who knows every twist and turn.If you’re arriving by air, Eldoret International Airport is the closest-only about two kilometers from the falls, close enough to hear the rush of water as you step outside.From there, it’s easy to flag down a taxi or hop on a local bus, the kind with bright painted sides, and head straight to the waterfall.Nearby Attractions – Kipkaren River: Flowing clear and cold from the hills, the Kipkaren River feeds the waterfall and winds through a landscape of lush, green banks.The river draws plenty of people for fishing and swimming, but the currents near the waterfall can whip past like a sudden rush of wind, so it’s best to be careful.Eldoret, the closest big town, thrives on agriculture and bustles with lively markets where the scent of fresh maize fills the air.Visitors can wander the town’s narrow streets for handmade pottery, then soak up the bustle of city life before heading to the falls.Just outside Eldoret, Kaptagat Forest draws visitors for peaceful nature walks, lively birdwatching, and the crisp scent of pine drifting through its shaded trails.It’s a quiet retreat from the rush of town, where you can hear nothing but the wind in the trees.The ideal time to see Chepkiit Waterfalls is in the dry season, from December to March, when clear skies and steady weather make exploring safer.From April to November, heavy rains swell the waterfall, sending more water thundering over the edge and turning it into a breathtaking sight.Visitors to Chepkiit Waterfalls often say the place leaves them in awe, pointing to the sweeping views and the quiet hush of water spilling over rock.Here, wild trails meet quiet lakes and open skies, offering both thrill and peace-a perfect getaway for outdoor lovers or anyone eager to leave the city’s noise behind.Chepkiit Waterfalls, tucked away in Nandi County, Kenya, offers stunning views and the rush of cool mist, along with plenty of ways to explore the outdoors and feel close to nature.You can hike the trails, snap photos of bright wildflowers, watch birds flit through the trees, or simply rest by the falls as the rush of water fills the air.Still, be careful-the slick rocks and the absence of safety railings make the edge of the falls especially risky.
