About
Kabarnet is a town in Baringo County, Kenya, set on the Tugen Hills above the Great Rift Valley. It is best approached as a base and a place to pause rather than a destination in its own right: the landscape around it is the main draw, and the town is a convenient point from which to reach it.
The setting
The town sits on a scenic escarpment, and its position gives visitors broad views over the surrounding country. The Rift Valley landscapes are the reason many travellers come this way, and Kabarnet offers a practical starting point for exploring them. From here, Lake Baringo is within reach, and the contrast between the highland town and the valley below is part of what makes the area worth a visit.
What to do
- Walk the town and its markets to see everyday local life and buy from stalls.
- Learn about Tugen culture, the traditions of the people who live in these hills.
- Go birdwatching, using Kabarnet as a base for excursions into the valley and lake country.
- Take in the views across the escarpment, particularly at the edges of town.
Why visit
Kabarnet is the hometown of former President Daniel arap Moi, which gives the town a place in Kenya's national story. Visitors who enjoy quiet towns, open landscapes and slower travel will find it a good stop. Those who want a large range of hotels, restaurants or organised attractions may find the choice more limited, so it suits travellers who plan to spend their days out on the hills, the valley and the lake.