Cherangani Hills

The Cheranganis run along the western wall of the Rift, an unusual range in that they are not volcanic but folded ancient rock, with rolling grassy tops rather than dramatic peaks and indigenous forest in the valleys. The high points, among them Nakugen at about 3,530 metres, the highest, and Chemnirot, Chepkotet and Karelachgelat, rise above 3,300 metres, and the walking between them is open and easy underfoot with enormous views: down into the Kerio valley on one side and out over the Trans Nzoia plains on the other. The range is farmed and settled to a surprising altitude, with Marakwet and Pokot villages, terraced fields and a system of irrigation furrows cut along the hillsides that has been maintained communally for generations. Trekking here means village-to-village walking with local guides rather than lodges and marked trails.

What's there

• Rolling grassy tops - open high ground with long views both ways.
• Indigenous forest - patches of old woodland in the valleys.
• Irrigation furrows - the community-maintained channels along the slopes.
• Village walking - farms, terraces and settlements at high altitude.

When to go

Dry seasons for walking; paths become mud in the rains and cloud sits on the tops. Nights are cold at this altitude. Trekking needs a guide arranged in Kitale or Iten, since routes are unmarked and cross private and community land.

Things to know

There is no trekking infrastructure: no huts, no marked paths, no rescue. Accommodation is camping or village homestays arranged ahead. Roads into the range are rough and often impassable in the wet. This is walking country for the self-sufficient rather than a hiking destination.

Nearby

Iten and the Kerio valley lie south; Mount Elgon is west.

Key facts