Things To Do
in Kitui
Kitui is a county town in eastern Kenya set on rolling hills with a striking red-soil landscape. It blends rural charm, vibrant markets, and welcoming communities that reveal rural Kenyan life beyond the capital. The area is known for crafts, scenic viewpoints, and a growing eco-cultural tourism scene.
With a mix of traditional practices and developing amenities, Kitui offers a laid-back base for exploring the wider Kikamba heartland.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Kitui and check into your accommodation. Take some time to freshen up and get settled, absorbing the unique atmosphere of this vibrant town. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe, sampling traditional Kenyan dishes.
Explore the bustling Kitui market where you can immerse yourself in local culture and shop for handmade crafts and textiles. Interact with local artisans and learn about their craft. Don't forget to take plenty of photos as colors and lively scenes abound.
Dine at a local restaurant, enjoying the warm hospitality and freshly prepared meals typical of the region. Reflect on your day while enjoying traditional Kenyan music or dance performances, perhaps even participating in a local dance. Relax at your base, soaking in the sounds of the town at dusk.
After breakfast, head out to the breathtaking Kitui Sand Dunes, a unique natural wonder. Marvel at the expansive sandy landscapes and the prominence of the dunes amidst the semi-arid environment. Engage in activities such as sandboarding or simply enjoy a peaceful walk.
Picnic lunch at the dunes allows you to savor your meal in this beautiful natural setting. Spend the afternoon exploring nearby areas, perhaps engaging with local communities, and understanding their lifestyles and traditions. The warmth of the sun and serenity of the dunes make for perfect moments.
Return to Kitui town for dinner, perhaps trying a different restaurant that showcases diverse culinary options. Afterward, visit a local bar or community spot to enjoy music and mingling with residents. As the night deepens, marvel at the stars above in the clear Kitui sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.50-2 |
| 👕T-shirt | $5-12 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly communities and rich culture
- Affordable to visit with wide-open spaces
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end amenities
- Rural roads can be rough and travel times longer
- "Habari yako?" - How are you?
- "Asante" - Thank you
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Niko safi" - I am fine
- "Tafadhali, nauliza bei gani?" - Please, how much is this?
Places to Visit in Kitui
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic overlook of the town and surrounding red soils, especially striking at sunset.
Expansive agricultural terraces and dramatic soil color ideal for wide landscape shots.
Early light illuminating rolling hills—great for moody landscape photography.
Colorful street scenes with people, produce, and textiles under fading light.
Food in Kitui
Kitui Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Maize porridge served with sautéed kale or cabbage, a staple accompaniment found in most homes and eateries.
Must-Try!
Grilled meat (often goat or beef) served with ugali and a squeeze of lime; popular at casual restaurants and grills.
Tomato-based stews featuring local beans or lentils, commonly enjoyed with ugali or rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling daytime market with fresh produce, grains, spices, and quick street bites.
Stalls offering roasted maize, fried dough, kebabs, and simple local treats favored by residents.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake or nod; inquire about health and family before business or conversation.
Dress modestly in rural areas; cover shoulders and knees in many spaces; avoid overly provocative attire.
Show respect to elders; use polite language and avoid raising voices in public settings.
Safety
Tipping in Kitui
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for good service (roughly 5–10%), especially when no service charge is included; cash is preferred.
Cash (Kenyan shillings) and mobile money (M-Pesa) are widely used; many places accept cash, some larger venues may accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Lush vegetation, clay roads can become muddy; pack a lightweight rain jacket and sturdy waterproof footwear; travel times may increase.
Greener landscapes with intermittent showers; good for photography of rain-fed farms; be prepared for brief downpours and occasional flash floods in low-lying areas.
Hot days with cooler nights; dusty conditions; ideal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities, but carry water and sun protection.
Kitui at Night
Hiking in Kitui
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hiking routes with panoramic views, unique geology, and potential wildlife sightings.
Scenic farmland trails and village visits offering authentic rural scenery.
Airports
How to reach Kitui by plane.
Kenya's main international gateway; access to Kitui typically via road or domestic flights via Nairobi.
Mombasa's international gateway; longer road journey from Kitui but serves as a gateway for southern coastal connections.
Nairobi's domestic airstrip hub for light aircraft and short regional flights; convenient for quick connections to regional areas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group in Kitui County, with a rich cultural heritage and the Kikamba language.
Smaller communities including neighboring ethnic groups who participate in markets and trade in towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, played in schools, clubs, and community fields.
Running and track events are common in schools and local clubs; training can be found in towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kitui.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on ugali, sukuma wiki, beans, and lentils; ask for oil-free preparation or stock-free options where possible.