Nandi Escarpment

Natural Landmarks in Nandi

Nandi Escarpment: Overlooking Kakamega Forest

Also cited simply as Nandi Scarp, this lesser mentioned natural landmark of Nandi is best sighted from elevated areas inside Kakamega Forest Reserve specially at Lirhanda Hill. For the motorist, the C37 Kaiboi-Kapkoimet-Chepterit Road offers amazing vista up and over the scarp. Nandi Escarpment, not to be confused with Nyando Escarpment, sometimes awarded the same epithet based its links with Nandi County, is one of the striking geological features in the west and northwest areas. It runs astride the dense North Nandi Forest and overlooks the Kakamega Forest. Its stunning scenery and myriad of waterfalls along the escarpment still remains untapped and undeveloped for touring. A trail head is yet to be marked.

Rising abruptly in South Nandi Forest, originally known as Kapwaren Forest south of the Kakamega-Kapsabet Road, within 3 km to the western boundary with Kakamega County, Nandi Escarpment forms a natural barrier between the North Nandi Forest and Kakamega Forest Reserve. It forms the natural border between Nandi and Kakamega counties, marking the edge of Kenya’s central highlands with steep cliffs and rugged terrain of granite and volcanic rock. The main scarps rise to 5400 to 6600 ft over most of its length, and then south of Kakamega-Kapsabet Road. Proximate to South Nandi Forest it rapidly dies out. Isolated features such as Chapkaigat, Tabolwa Rock, Kimoror, and Sumayat rise to well-over 7000 feet.


Kenya is blessed with a diverse range of natural landmarks, showcasing the country’s stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. These natural landmarks represent Kenya’s breathtaking beauty and ecological diversity, making it a top destination for safari adventures, outdoor, and wilderness exploration.


Beyond athletics, famously known as the heartland of Kenyan long-distance running, Nandi County is a region of stunning highland scenery, rich agricultural land, and deep cultural heritage. The county is characterized by highland terrain, with altitudes ranging from 1,300 to 2,500 meters asl. Nandi Escarpment forms a dramatic western boundary, dropping down to the Kavirondo Gulf I Lake Victoria.

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What’s The Air Like in Nandi?

Nandi County has a fine and moderate warm climate year long with no cold and hot extremes. Nandi’s climate is influenced by both altitude and geophaphy. Most areas experience temperatures of between 18o C and 25o C.

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