Kericho Golf Club | Kericho

Kericho Golf Club is a historic and scenic golf course located in Kericho Town, in Kenya’s Rift Valley region. Founded in 1927, it is one of the oldest golf clubs in the country and a cherished institution in western Kenya. Nestled amid the lush green tea plantations that define the region, the club offers not only a beautiful course but also a tranquil and prestigious environment for sports, recreation, and social interaction.

Location and Setting

Town: Kericho

Altitude: Approximately 2,200 meters (7,200 feet) above sea level

Climate: Cool and misty, with regular rainfall—ideal for golf and greenery

Surroundings: Surrounded by vast expanses of tea fields, forests, and gently rolling hills

The combination of high elevation, fertile volcanic soil, and abundant rainfall makes Kericho one of the greenest parts of Kenya. The golf course benefits from this natural beauty and climate, staying lush and playable year-round.

Course Features

Holes: 9-hole course (with alternative tees to simulate 18-hole play)

Par: Typically par 70 or 72, depending on layout and tournaments

Layout: Rolling fairways, mature trees, well-maintained greens

Terrain: Undulating and forest-lined, with occasional water hazards and natural rough

The course was originally designed during the colonial era and has maintained much of its traditional character while incorporating modern improvements. The cool climate ensures excellent playing conditions with soft fairways and fast greens.

Club Facilities

Kericho Golf Club offers more than just golf. It functions as a social and sporting hub for the town and its surroundings. Key facilities include:

Clubhouse: A colonial-style building with a veranda, lounge, and bar

Restaurant and Bar: Offers drinks and local or continental cuisine

Locker rooms: Basic but clean and functional

Pro shop: Stocks limited golf supplies and accessories

Practice facilities: A small putting green and driving range

Caddies: Available for hire, usually knowledgeable about the local course

Event hosting: Space for weddings, corporate events, and tournaments

The club often serves as a gathering point for members of Kericho’s tea industry, business community, and government officials.

Tournaments and Membership

Kericho Golf Club hosts several local and regional tournaments, including:

Monthly members' medal competitions

Inter-club events with teams from nearby towns (e.g., Nakuru, Kisumu, Eldoret)

Corporate-sponsored tournaments by tea companies and banks

Junior and youth development events, promoting golf among young players

Membership is open to individuals and corporates, with annual subscription fees. Visitors and guests are welcome to play for a daily green fee, and the club maintains a friendly atmosphere for both serious golfers and recreational players.

Historical and Cultural Role

Established during British colonial rule, the club was originally reserved for settlers and colonial officials.

After independence, it gradually opened to all Kenyans and became a symbol of social integration in the post-colonial era.

The club has strong ties with the local tea industry, and many of its members are affiliated with companies like Unilever Tea, James Finlay, or Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA).

It has also served as a training ground for some skilled golfers from western Kenya, helping to nurture talent from a region that traditionally lacked access to elite sporting facilities.

Tourism and Accessibility

Visitors to Kericho can enjoy the golf club as part of a larger tour of the Kenyan highlands. It makes a great stopover for travelers heading between Nakuru, Kisumu, and the Mau Forest Complex.

Nearby attractions include:

Kericho Tea Plantations – with guided factory tours and tea tasting

Mau Forest – for hiking, birdwatching, and eco-tourism

Lake Victoria – about 2 hours away by road

The club is accessible by road from Nairobi (about 4–5 hours drive) or from Kisumu (about 1.5 hours).

Summary

Kericho Golf Club is a scenic and historic course that reflects the beauty and calm of Kenya’s tea country. With its green fairways, colonial charm, and social warmth, it offers a peaceful golf experience in one of Kenya’s most picturesque regions. Whether you're a serious golfer, a visitor exploring western Kenya, or a local seeking recreation, Kericho Golf Club provides a well-balanced blend of sport, nature, and heritage.