Crying Stone of Ilesi

The Crying Stone, Ikhongo Murwi in Luhya, is a rounded boulder perched on top of a tall rock column, with water seeping from beneath the boulder and running down the column face in a permanent dark streak that gives the formation its name and its resemblance to a head weeping. It stands on a hill above the road at Ilesi, a village known for pottery, and it is a landmark for the whole region, appearing on county emblems and in local stories about its origins and the misfortune said to follow anyone who damages it. The climb up is short, and from the base there is a view over the Kakamega countryside of sugar cane, maize and scattered homesteads. Local guides tell the traditions and there are usually a few stalls at the foot.

What you actually see

• The balanced boulder - the rounded stone perched on its column.
• The water streak - the permanent seep running down the face.
• The hill view - Kakamega farmland from the base.
• Ilesi pottery - the village craft sold nearby.

When to go

Year-round; the streak is more pronounced in the wet months. Mornings are best for light on the west-facing column. It takes under an hour, so it fits a drive between Kakamega and Kisumu.

Honest expectations

It is a single formation and the visit is short; some travellers find it modest for the journey. Guides and fee collectors at the site expect payment agreed beforehand. There are no facilities. Climbing on the formation is discouraged and locally frowned upon.

Nearby

Kakamega Forest lies north; Kisumu is southwest.