Our recent familiarization trip to Makueni County in April was an incredible adventure, filled with captivating experiences, natural wonders, cultural immersion, and warm hospitality. Let’s take a moment to recap the highlights of each day and the remarkable places we visited.
Welcome to Makueni County, a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and exciting adventures. Located in the heart of Kenya, Makueni offers a unique blend of captivating attractions, activities, and warm hospitality. In this tourism guide, we invite you to embark on an unforgettable journey through the hidden gems of Makueni County.
Day 1: Hosting of the 5-day event and Arrival at Paraiso Gardens
We left Nairobi at around 2pm with the Wanderlust Diaries Team with Turnup in Motion crew doing photography and videography to document the 5-day launch of the in Makueni County tourism circuit, setting the tone for an exciting exploration ahead. We had a brief stop over at Makongo View point and later on arrived at Paraiso Gardens, where we were warmly welcomed with cultural dancers and settled in for an overnight stay.
Day 2: Breakfast Launch and Excursions
Our day started with a delightful breakfast launch at Kusyombunguo Hotel, featuring presentations by His Excellency the Governor, Mutula Kilonzo Jr., and captivating performances by the Makueni County Choir. We then embarked on an inspection of Kilimani, Fort, and Acacia Hotels, capturing beautiful photographs. Next, we visited AIC Kalamba for an insightful excursion on the inception of Christianity in the Nzaui Region. The day concluded with a memorable hike at Nzaui Hill, offering panoramic views of the Nzaui ecosystem.
Day 3: Exploration of Mbooni, Kivale Forest and Rock Excursions
After a delicious hotel breakfast, we set off for Mbooni, where we inspected Mbooni Pride Hotel and explored the Mbooni forest and sites. We went to Kivale Forest, capturing stunning photographs along the way. The day continued with inspections at The Base Hotel and Tawa Country Lounge Hotel, followed by lunch and photography. We wrapped up the day with an overnight stay at Paraiso Gardens in Wote, accompanied by evening entertainment for those who went to experience the karaoke.
Day 4: Kibwezi Discoveries and Chyulu Hills National Park
Our journey took us to Kibwezi, where we made a courtesy call at the Makindu Sikh Temple. We then embarked on inspections of Porini Inn and Dakota Complex, witnessing their unique offerings. In the afternoon, we explored Chyulu Hills National Park, marveling at its natural beauty, including Kisula Cave, Gamelion Water Point, and Satellite. We ended the day at Kambua Guest House for dinner and an overnight stay. Makueni’s diverse ecosystem makes it a paradise for birdwatchers. Grab your binoculars and spot a myriad of bird species, including the elegant eagles, colorful sunbirds, and captivating hornbills.
Day 5: Tsavo National Park Adventure and Evening at Hunters Lodge
Our day began with a nature drive and photography in Tsavo National Park, followed by a scenic hike up Chaimu Hill. The breathtaking Mzima Springs captivated us with its beauty and history, where we enjoyed a packed lunch. We continued our journey with a visit to Shetani Lava, capturing stunning photographs and immersing ourselves in its intriguing history. Embark on exhilarating game drives in Tsavo East National Park. Traverse the untamed landscapes and encounter Kenya’s iconic wildlife up close. Keep your camera ready for those awe-inspiring moments.
Day 6: Souvenirs and Departure
On our final day, we visited Emali Homecraft Centre to collect unique souvenirs. Inspections at Eden Hotel and Jambo Africa provided further insights into the local hospitality offerings. We also explored Kijiji Village, immersing ourselves in the vibrant local culture. Finally, we enjoyed lunch at Airport View Kalimbini, capturing the last memories of our remarkable trip before beginning our return journey.
Discover the skillful craftsmanship of Makueni by visiting local workshops. From intricately woven baskets to beautifully carved wooden sculptures, you can witness artisans at work and even take home a piece of Makueni’s heritage.
Conclusion:
Makueni County is an undiscovered gem, waiting to be explored and cherished. Its captivating natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and thrilling adventures offer an unforgettable experience for every traveler. As you plan your journey to Makueni, remember to immerse yourself in the local culture, appreciate the stunning landscapes, and embrace the warm hospitality that defines this remarkable destination.
So, pack your bags, set out on an exciting expedition, and let Makueni County weave its magic around you. Unveil the hidden gems, create lasting memories, and return with a heart filled with the beauty of this Kenyan gem.
Here is the video we produced to give you an idea of what Makueni County has to offer
