Cheptebo Area
Kerio Valley
Torok Falls
Birding
Discover the natural wonders of the Kerio Valley during your stay at Cheptebo.
Located close to the Centre, Torok Waterfall makes for an energetic excursion to a site of exceptional natural beauty. The hike to the falls takes you through the stunning Kerio Valley landscape — rocky escarpments, lush ravines and the roar of cascading water await you at the end of the trail.
Further Information
The Rimoi National Reserve is an animal conservation reserve located in Elgeyo Marakwet County, covering 66 km² and protected by the Kenya Wildlife Service. It lies adjacent to Lake Kamnarok which has recently dried up and is part of a conservation area that is five larger than its size. Wildlife includes elephants, dikdik, impala, bush pig, warthog, monkeys, civet, genet, and pangolin. Reptiles include crocodiles, agama lizards, tortoise and many snakes. The reserve is currently being fenced with a corridor being left for the elephants. The Elgeyo Marakwet and Baringo Governors released thirty zebras into the reserve in 2016 as part of a restocking plan.
Reserve Information
The Chebloch Gorge is a deep 20m deep gorge which offers fantastic views of the muddy brown, crocodile-infested waters of the Kerio River. The C51 highway crosses the gorge 39km from Iten via a modern concrete bridge. Parallel to it, the steel beams of the old colonial-age bridge are still in place and offer a perilous perch from which to view the gorge. The gorge was cut down into the hard basalt rock by the power of the Kerio River itself. When in flood, the river increases tremendously in height and volume and carries a heavy load of fine, highly-abrasive silt which grinds down the river bed. Young boys with primitive fishing rods can be seen competing with the crocodiles for the mudfish and catfish that are seasonally abundant.
View on Map
Lake Kamnarok lies adjacent to the Rimoi National Reserve and is part of a conservation area that is five times larger than its size. The lake has recently dried up but remains an important wetland area. It is home to various wildlife including crocodiles, and together with Rimoi forms a critical conservation corridor for elephants moving through the valley. Traditionally the only large mammals in Rimoi and Kamnarok were elephants, which wander in and out and up and down the valley at will, in accordance with the availability of water and food.
Lake Information
The variety of birds in the area is a birdwatcher's dream. The Kerio Valley is home to an incredible diversity of species — from raptors soaring on the thermals above the escarpment to colourful sunbirds feeding in the gardens. Many of these can be seen in and around the Centre farm without even leaving the grounds.
View Bird SpeciesAIC Cheptebo RDC is located in Keiyo South, Elgeyo Marakwet County. All local attractions are accessible by foot or short drive from the Centre. Ask at Reception for directions.
Waterfalls are best after rains. Birdwatching is rewarding year-round, especially early morning. Game viewing at Rimoi is best early morning or late afternoon.
Our Conference Reception team can assist with guides, transport, picnic arrangements and any further information you need for your visit.
Detailed maps, guided excursions and travel tips available at Conference Reception.