Ever thought of exploring Kenya’s hidden gem, the Rimoi National Reserve, that is inhabited by East Africa’s largest elephant herds? Naicef gives you an opportunity for an authentic wildlife experience.
To explore the Rimoi National Reserve, reach out to Naicef via email at [email protected] or simply call +254799922277.
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Ready to know about Rimoi National Reserve? Let’s dive into it!
Interesting Facts About Rimoi National Reserve
Nestled in the heart of Kenya’s Kerio Valley, Rimoi National Reserve is one of the country’s best-kept wildlife secrets.
Rimoi reserve is home to some of East Africa’s largest elephant herds, with groups of up to 450 elephants migrating through the reserve, making it a migration corridor.
Though relatively small, covering about 66 km², this reserve is bursting with biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and unique stories.
Rimoi National Reserve is home to one of the rarest crocodiles in Kenya, a famous white crocodile said to inhabit parts of the Kerio River.
Rimoi was established in 1983 but suffered from neglect for many years. It underwent significant rehabilitation efforts and officially reopened its gates on March 8, 2016. This comeback story highlights a successful local conservation initiative.
During the rainy season, a temporary lake called Tabar forms within the reserve and becomes a magnet for various water birds, including rare migratory species, making it a birdwatcher’s delight.
To address human-wildlife conflicts, particularly with elephants, a fence has been erected around parts of the reserve, promoting better coexistence.
Rimoi National Reserve Attractions
1. Large Elephant Herds
Rimoi Reserve is renowned for its large elephant herds of up to 100, unlike many other parks where elephants move in smaller units.
Elephants even migrate from distant areas like Turkana and Samburu to breed here.
2. Unique Geological Scenery
The Rimoi National Reserve is located along the escarpment of the Great Rift Valley, offering breathtaking views of the Kerio Valley.
The towering Elgeyo Marakwet County Escarpment rises dramatically above the valley, providing a stunning backdrop to the Rimoi Reserve.
The Kerio River winds through the valley, forming a natural boundary and attracting wildlife.
3. Rich Birdlife
Rimoi National Reserve is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 450 different bird species, including weavers, sunbirds, hornbills, and honeyguides, making it a haven for ornithologists.
Lake Tabar, a seasonal lake at the reserve, brings in migratory bird species. Check out our bird watching guide, promising you rewarding best places to visit to experience birding.
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4. Diverse wildlife
Aside from the known elephant herds, Rimoi is home to a diverse number of wildlife species, including grazers, reptiles, and predators.
They include zebras, warthogs, baboons, the reintroduced Rothschild giraffe, elusive pangolins, monkeys, and buffaloes.
Crocodiles can be found along the Kerio River, with rarely seen white crocodiles.
5. Cheptarit Hill
A hike up Cheptarit Hill offers spectacular, mouth-dropping views of the entire Kerio Valley and the surrounding landscape.
The area around Cheptarit Hill is also known for its beautiful hot springs.
The hill is rich in local culture and history, offering a glimpse into the traditions of the Kalenjin people who inhabit the region.
6. Chebloch Gorge (Nearby Attraction)
Located near the Rumoi Reserve, Chebloch Gorge is a magnificent natural formation where the Kerio River cuts deep into the rocks.
Young local men often entertain visitors by performing unique diving spectacles into the crocodile-infested river (for a fee).
7. Cultural Immersion
The reserve is bordered by the homes of the Kalenjin people, renowned for producing world-class long-distance runners. This provides an opportunity for cultural interaction and learning about their unique way of life.
8. Camping and Wilderness Experience
Rimoi offers several campsites both within and outside the reserve, allowing visitors to spend a night under the stars and wake up to the sounds of the wilderness. Crocodile Camp is a well-known option.
The relatively remote and less crowded nature of Rimoi provides a more authentic and intimate safari experience.
Rimoi National Reserve Activities
1. Game Drives
Enjoy encountering different wildlife and bird species on wheels with the help of a Naicef guide at the Rumoi National Reserve.
As it is a lesser-known reserve, you can enjoy the view without it being crowded.
2. Nature Guided Walks
Get up-close views of wildlife species and embrace Mother Nature more intimately by going for nature walks.
Armed guards are required for safety.
3. Birdwatching
Birders can delight in resident and migrant bird species, so make sure to carry your binoculars to enjoy the thrilling views of bird species such as the turacos, sunbirds, honeyguides, weavers, and many more.
4. Visit Cheptariat Hill
Hike up Cheptariat Hill for breathtaking views of the entire Kerio Valley and explore the beautiful hot springs located in the area.
The hill is rich in local culture and history, giving a chance to learn more about the Kalenji community.
5. Cultural Interaction
Get immersed in the local Kalenjin culture and have a hands-on experience as you interact with locals and learn more on their lifestyle.
6. Photography Safaris
From the elephant herds to the stunning landscapes and the Kerio valley, Rimio National Reserve offers the best views that your camera can be blessed with.
Never forget to capture the moment so you can have a lifetime of memories to look back on.
7. Camping
Rimio reserve offers campsites both within and outside the reserve, giving an authentic wilderness overnight experience.
Tents and other camping facilities can be hired at a fee.
8. Visit Chebloch Gorge
Just outside the reserve, this natural gorge is where the Kerio River carves its way through impressive rock formations.
Witness the unique and daring diving spectacles performed by local young men into the gorge’s crocodile-infested waters (usually for a small fee).
Rimoi National Reserve Entrance Fee
Rimoi National Reserve Entrance Fee For Kenyan Citizens
- Adult Ksh 3oo
- Child Ksh 125
Rimoi National Reserve Entrance Fees For Residents
- Adult Ksh 600
- Child Ksh 255
Rimoi National Reserve Entrance Fee For Non-Residents
- Adult USD 22
- Child USD 13
Additional rates are charged for campers.
Rimoi Reserve Accommodation
Tents are offered at the reserve for campers.
For a more comfortable stay, you can choose to stay at the lodges, homestays, or hotels near the resort, including:
- Samich Resort
- Sego Safari Lodge
- Too Guest House
- Koiklebel Homestay
- Kolol Hill Cottage
- Elgeyo Sawmills Guest Houses
- Lelin Campsites
For luxurious options, try Kerio View Hotel: A 4-star hotel in Iten, offering stunning views of the Kerio Valley.
The Swiss Side Iten Hotel: Located in Iten, with access to a hot spring bath. It has a restaurant with African cuisine and offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Petan Guesthouse Iten offers family rooms and a terrace.
Conclusion
Rimoi National Reserve may not be as famous as Kenya’s larger parks, but that is part of its charm.
Tucked away in the vast Kerio Valley, Rimoi Reserve offers visitors a rare chance to experience wildlife in a quieter, more authentic setting.
Some of the Rimoi National Reserve attractions include the towering elephants, diverse birdlife, and the dramatic landscapes of the surrounding hills create an atmosphere that is both peaceful and awe-inspiring.
Beyond the wildlife, Rimoi tells a story of the resilience of both nature and the local communities working to protect it.
Rimoi National Reserve activities are such as epic game drives, intimate nature walks, birdwatching, and hiking.
For anyone looking to step off the beaten track and discover a side of Kenya that still feels wild and untouched, Rimoi National Reserve is well worth the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is Rimoi National Reserve located?
Rimoi National Reserve is in Elgeyo Marakwet County, on the floor of the Kerio Valley, Kenya. It borders the Kerio River and lies opposite Lake Kamnarok National Reserve.
2. How big is the reserve?
Rimoi covers about 66 square kilometers (km²).
3. What is the best time to visit?
The best time is during the dry season (July to October), when wildlife is easier to spot and the roads are more accessible. However, the reserve is open year-round.
4. What wildlife can I expect to see?
You can see; large herds of elephants (some of the largest in East Africa), Giraffes (Rothschild’s), zebras, impalas, dik-dik, warthogs, baboons, Various birds (hornbills, turacos, sunbirds, waterfowl), Reptiles, including crocodiles, look out for the famous white crocodile
5. Are guided tours available?
Yes, you can arrange guided game drives and nature walks with armed rangers. Local guides can also lead cultural and birdwatching tours.
