About
Kitui County lies in eastern Kenya, in East Africa. It is a destination shaped by its landscape and by the work of its people, and a visit here is best approached as a view into the everyday life of a county rather than a short stop on a checklist.
The land and climate
The county has a semi-arid climate, which gives its scenery a dry, open character. Visitors who arrive expecting the greenery of Kenya's highlands may find a different rhythm here, shaped by the seasons and by how people have learned to live alongside limited rain.
Farming and livestock
Agriculture is central to life in Kitui County, and livestock keeping is among its main activities. A trip here offers a chance to observe how herding and farming fit into the county's dry conditions, and to talk with local people about their work.
Mineral resources
The county is also known for significant coal deposits, which make mining part of its economic picture. This is a useful thing to understand when considering the area's development and the mix of activities you may see on the roads and in the towns.
Is it worth the journey?
Kitui County suits travellers who want to see a part of Kenya beyond its best-known parks and beaches, and who are comfortable with a quieter, more rural pace. Plan your route and accommodation in advance, as facilities may be more limited than in the country's major tourist centres, and allow time to engage with the communities that give the county its character.
