Ever thought what are the best places to visit in Vihiga County? Naicef gives you the things to do in Vihiga county, tourist attractions in Vihiga county, and accommodation in Vihiga county.
Did you know that Vihiga is famously known for its enthusiasm for traditional dances and music? The best time to visit Vihiga County to enjoy this is during the festive season.
Historically, Vihiga was carved out of the larger Western Province and is known as the cultural heart of the Maragoli, Banyore, and Tiriki sub-tribes.
For a curated tour of Vihiga County, contact Naicef via our email at [email protected] or tap: +254799922277. You may choose also to;
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With its rolling hills, sacred forests, vibrant markets, and deeply rooted traditions, Vihiga is not just a destination, it’s an experience waiting to unfold.
Tourist Attractions & Best Places To Visit In Vihiga County
1. Maragoli Hills
Maragoli Hills is one of the top tourist attractions in Vihiga County.
Named after the people, Vihiga County is known to be the home to the Maragoli people, who are part of the greater Luhya community and are a prominent feature.
The vibrant hills offer amazing opportunities to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding areas including the Nandi hills.
They are also culturally significant hills as the Mungoma caves are located nearby.
Check out some of our hiking packages that give stunning views of the different areas.
- Ultimate Ngong Hills Package
- Mt Kenya 1 Day Hike
- 1-Day Forest Challenge Package
- 1 Day Mt. Longonot Hike
2. Mungoma Caves
Believed to be the ancestral shrine and original home of the founding father and hero of the Maragoli, Mulogoli.
The caves are sacred to the community making them one of the best places to visit in Vihiga county.
Offering insight into ancient burial customs and the tale of the magical drum that guided the people to their destined home, Mungoma Caves give an intriguing natural experience.
The caves are formed by several huge boulders lumped close together, leaving hollow, cavernous, and winding openings inside suggesting a massive earth disturbance centuries ago.
Kit Mikayi ( The Stone Of The First Wife), or the Crying Stone, is also a sacred place to the Luo community which was believed to be crying during the dry season when there was drought.
For such interesting cultural beliefs, check out our amazing packages;
- 3 Days Western Kenya Cultural Tour
- 3 Days 2 Nights Aberdare Cultural Tour
- 3 Days Samburu Cultural Tour
- 3 Days Masai Mara Cultural Tour
- 3 Days Amboseli National Park Cultural Tour
- Mombasa 3 Days Cultural Tour
How many of the different cultures in Kenya do you think you can learn about? I give you a challenge to experience the cultural tours above.
3. Kaimosi Forest
Known for its lush greenery and diverse species that inhabit it from the flora to fauna, Kaimosi gives you a scenic and peaceful escape from the bustling city. The forest is among the best tourist attractions in Vihiga County.
It’s also a great place to go for birdwatching given the various bird species that inhabit it, nature walks and eco-forest tours to promote sustainability.
Also referred to as a healthful tropical haven, it’s a remnant of the vast Congo Tropical Rainforest.
4. Wagevere Rocks
Located within the vicinity of the Kaimosi forest, the ‘Jesus Wagevere Rock’ is embossed with footprints believed by the local people to be actual footprints left by Jesus Christ.
The rocks are a site for pilgrimage travel as they often have people engaging in prayer and worship seeking solace spiritually.
5. Bunyore Hills
Serving as a natural boundary between Vihiga County and Kisumu County, the Bunyore Hills’ most profound aspect is that they are a cultural landmark and ancestral abode for the Banyore.
Explore the hills and visit the Kima Stone Mountain, the Stone Hill resort, River Yala, the hiking trails, Ebuhando Hill being the most popular trail, and cultural interactions with locals.
6. Nganyi Rainmakers Forest
This forest is not just a patch of trees situated within Bunyore hills; it is a cultural institution and a testament to indigenous knowledge. This forest is home to the famous Nganyi rainmakers.
They possess an inherited gift of predicting weather patterns and some might even say they influence rain patterns.
The area hosts secret shrines where the rainmaking rituals are performed and access is highly restricted.
7. Luanda Town
A busy commercial hub connecting Vihiga to Kisumu, great for shopping and local cuisine, where you can get to have a cultural immersion as you engage with the locals.
Luanda market offers a vibrant cultural experience for you and your friends or family.
Things To Do In Vihiga County
1. Hiking
Bunyore Hills being one of the tourist attractions in Vihiga County offers hiking options for those interested or you can try out the Maragoli Hills.
You can also go trekking at Kaimosi forest or the Nganyi rainmakers’ forest.
Explore rural trails and hidden waterfalls such as waterfalls along the Sofia and Yala rivers perfect for nature photographers.
2. Birdwatching
At Kaimosi forest, one of Kenya’s least-disturbed ecosystems, and Bunyore Hills observe a variety of bird species. Look out also for our birdwatching safaris;
3. Cultural Immersion
Experience Luhya culture at festivals like the annual Maragoli Cultural Festival every December.
Sample local delicacies like mrenda, ingokho (chicken), and obusuma (ugali) in traditional eateries.
Here are more of our other cultural immersive experiences;
4. Photography
The dramatic granite formations, lush greenery, and expansive views offer excellent photographic opportunities so keep your cameras ready to capture beautiful shots.
5. Explore lesser-known spots
While the main forests are the highlights, there are specific secret shrines you can explore, or visit coffee plantations that are tourist attractions in Vihiga county.
Best Time To Visit Vihiga County
The best time to visit Vihiga is during the dry seasons: December to February and June to early September.
These months offer pleasant weather for hikes, festivals, and cultural tours.
If you want to witness vibrant celebrations, visit in December for the Maragoli Cultural Festival, where tradition comes alive in full color!
Accommodation In Vihiga County
While Vihiga is mostly rural, there are several comfortable and affordable options for travelers:
- Milele Resort in Mbale
- Sosa Cottages
- Broad Park Hotels
- Equator Grand Hotel in Luanda
- Kaimosi Friends Guesthouse is an ideal accommodation in Vihiga County for quiet stays near the forest.
Budget guesthouses and Airbnb homes in Mbale, Chavakali, and Majengo also offer cozy stays with a local touch.
For luxury or more amenities, you can stay in Kisumu City, which is just under an hour’s drive away.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best places to visit in Vihiga County are such as; Bunyore Hills, Kaimosi forest, Mungoma caves, Maragoli Hills, Luanda town, and Wagevere Rocks.
The things to do in Vihiga County include; Birdwatching, Hiking, Trekking, and Cultural Interactions.
Therefore, expect the best experience in Vihiga County with Naicef as we explore together.
Enjoy the raw experience with accommodation in Vihiga County and immerse yourself in culture.
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or culture seeker, Vihiga welcomes you with open arms.
Naicef is the best tour company to explore the best places to visit in Vihiga County as we also focus on sustainability and your wellness. So, contact us via;
Email at [email protected] or call +254799922277 for the best deals on Vihiga. You may also;
Book The Tour Here
Kakamega, Homa Bay, Bungoma, Busia, Elgeyo Marakwet, Bomet, Narok, Samburu, Migori, Nyandarua, Muranga, and West Pokot are some of the other counties neighboring Vihiga County that you may seek to find out.
With Naicef, ‘Every Trip Becomes A Successful & Unforgettable Story,” we give you the very best experiences and travel blogs in Kenya.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Vihiga County safe for tourists?
Yes! Vihiga is generally peaceful and safe. Just follow basic travel safety guidelines and respect local customs.
2. How do I get to Vihiga County?
You can travel by road from Kisumu (about 45 minutes) or by public matatus from Nairobi via Kakamega. Closest airport: Kisumu International Airport.
3. Are there tour guides available?
Yes, especially around key attractions like Kaimosi Forest and Maragoli Hills. You can find local guides through community tourism groups or accommodations.
4. What language is spoken in Vihiga?
The main languages are Luhya (Maragoli, Tiriki, Bunyore dialects), Swahili, and English.
5. What should I pack for a trip to Vihiga?
Comfortable walking shoes, light clothes for the day, warm clothes for cool nights, insect repellent, and your camera!
