Things To Do
in Rumuruti

Rumuruti is a picturesque town located in Laikipia County, Kenya, known for its lush landscapes and vibrant culture. Nestled between rolling hills and expansive savannahs, it serves as a gateway to various wildlife experiences and outdoor activities. The town is also rich in agriculture, with coffee and tea farms dotting the countryside.

Rumuruti offers a unique blend of traditional Kenyan life and modern amenities, making it an attractive destination for travelers seeking adventure and cultural immersion.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Rumuruti
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Rumuruti Market, where you can experience the local culture and purchase fresh produce.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the nearby coffee and tea plantations, learning about the production process and tasting local brews.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a leisurely stroll through the town center to soak in the evening atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Wildlife
morning
:

Head out early for a day trip to the nearby Ol Pejeta Conservancy, where you can see diverse wildlife, including elephants and rhinos.

afternoon
:

Explore the conservancy further with a guided safari tour, taking photos and learning about the ecosystem.

evening
:

Return to Rumuruti for a traditional Kenyan dinner, followed by a visit to a local bar for some live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🥘Meal at a local restaurant$5
🚌Bus fare within town$0.50
🍹Beer at a local bar$2
🛒Groceries for a week$30
🏨Budget hotel per night$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and wildlife experiences.
  • Rich cultural experiences with friendly locals.
  • Affordable cost of living and travel.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Infrastructure may not be as developed.
  • Accessibility can be challenging during rainy seasons.
  • "Jambo" - Hello
  • "Asante" - Thank you
  • "Tafadhali" - Please
  • "Nzuri sana" - Very good
  • "Habari gani?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Rumuruti

Visit one of these nice places.

Ol Pejeta Conservancy

A stunning wildlife conservancy where visitors can capture breathtaking images of animals in their natural habitat.

Rumuruti Hill

A viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for sunrise or sunset photography.

Local Markets

Vibrant scenes at local markets filled with colorful produce and lively interactions make for great candid photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Rumuruti

Rumuruti offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the rich culture of Kenya. Visitors can enjoy a variety of local dishes, fresh produce, and traditional beverages that highlight the region's agricultural bounty.

Rumuruti Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nyama Choma

Grilled meat, typically goat or beef, served with ugali and kachumbari (a fresh tomato and onion salad).

Must-Try!

Sukuma Wiki

Stir-fried collard greens often served as a side dish, rich in flavor and nutrients.

Chapati

A flatbread that is a staple in Kenyan cuisine, often enjoyed with stews and curries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Rumuruti Market

A bustling market where locals sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and street food like samosas and fried plantains.

Climate Guide

Weather

Rumuruti experiences a temperate climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season runs from June to October, with warm temperatures around 25-30°C (77-86°F). The rainy seasons occur from March to May and November to December, bringing cooler temperatures and heavy rainfall. Nights can be chilly, especially in the cool season (July-August) when temperatures can drop to around 10°C (50°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common, often followed by a friendly greeting. It's polite to ask about someone's well-being.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas, to respect local customs and cultural values.

Respect Elders

Elders are highly respected in Kenyan culture; greetings and interactions should reflect this respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Rumuruti is generally safe for travelers, but it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, and keep your belongings secure. It is also wise to stay informed about local conditions and follow guidance from local authorities.

Tipping in Rumuruti

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

A tip of around 10% is customary in restaurants; always check if service charges are included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, mobile payment options like M-Pesa are popular and convenient.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (June - October)

Expect warm and dry weather, making it ideal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.

Short Rains (November - December)

Short rains can occur, leading to lush green landscapes but potential muddy conditions; good for photography.

Long Rains (March - May)

Heavy rains can make travel challenging, but the scenery is breathtakingly lush and vibrant.

Cool Season (July - August)

Temperatures are cooler, making it comfortable for outdoor exploration, but evenings can be chilly.

Nightlife Guide

Rumuruti at Night

Rumuruti's nightlife is low-key but enjoyable, with local bars that often feature live music and a friendly atmosphere. The town has a few clubs where you can dance to local music genres, and many restaurants offer evening entertainment.

Hiking in Rumuruti

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kuria Hills Trail

A scenic hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys, suitable for all skill levels.

Mount Kenya Base Trail

A more challenging hike leading to the base of Mount Kenya, providing opportunities for experienced hikers to explore the area.

Airports

How to reach Rumuruti by plane.

Nanyuki Airport

Located about 40 km from Rumuruti, Nanyuki Airport serves domestic flights and is the closest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Rumuruti is quite walkable, with essential services and attractions located within a reasonable distance from each other. The main streets are generally safe for pedestrians, though some areas may lack sidewalks. Visitors can enjoy walking through the town to explore local shops, markets, and eateries.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Maasai Community

The Maasai people, known for their vibrant culture and traditions, are a significant demographic group in the region.

Agikuyu Community

The Agikuyu, one of the largest ethnic groups in Kenya, also inhabit the area, contributing to the cultural diversity of Rumuruti.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a beloved sport in Rumuruti, with local teams playing in community leagues and matches attracting passionate crowds.

Rugby

Rugby is also popular in the region, with several clubs and schools promoting the sport among youth.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Rumuruti is generally light, with most transportation done by foot or on bicycles. Public transportation consists mainly of matatus (shared taxis) that connect the town to nearby areas. Road conditions can vary, especially during the rainy season, so it's essential to plan travel accordingly.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Rumuruti.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, with options like sukuma wiki and chapati available.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free options may be limited, dishes like grilled meats and most vegetables are safe choices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Rumuruti include a few clinics and a hospital offering basic services. However, for more serious medical needs, traveling to larger towns like Nanyuki or Nyahururu is advisable. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.

Discover Kenya

Read more in our Kenya 2025 Travel Guide.

Kenya Travel Guide