Nandi

Nandi County is a hilly, green county in Kenya's Rift Valley highlands, named after the Nandi people — a Kalenjin subgroup renowned for producing world-champion long-distance runners. The county is dominated by rolling tea plantations, maize fields, and forested hills. Its capital, Kapsabet, is a quiet town known as the "home of champions" for the many athletes who train in the area.

Nandi is one of Kenya's most productive agricultural regions, with tea, maize, and dairy farming at the core of the economy. The Nandi Hills offer some of the most scenic landscapes in the Rift Valley, with cool temperatures and lush vegetation year-round.

The dry seasons (December–March and June–September) are ideal. The county receives heavy rainfall from March to May and October to November. Due to the high elevation (around 2,000 m), temperatures are cool year-round, with evenings often requiring a jacket.

Kapsabet is connected by road to Eldoret (about 40 km) and Kisumu (about 80 km). Matatus run from Eldoret and Kisumu to Kapsabet, Nandi Hills, and other towns. Within the county, matatus and boda-bodas provide local transport. Most roads are tarmacked in the main towns.

• Kapsabet — the county capital, known for its champion athletes and peaceful atmosphere.
• Nandi Hills — a scenic town high in the Nandi Hills with panoramic views.
• Mosoriot — a tea-growing centre in the highlands.
• Kobujoi — a town in the northern highlands.
• Kabiyet — an agricultural town known for maize and dairy farming.
• Tinderet — a highland area on the border with Kisumu County.

Nandi cuisine features ugali, mursik (traditional fermented milk), nyama choma, and vegetables. The region is known for its high-quality tea, which is grown on the surrounding hills. Local honey is also prized.

The Nandi people are famous for their athletic dominance in long-distance running. The "Home of Champions" title is celebrated with events honouring local athletes. Traditional Nandi music, dance, and initiation ceremonies remain culturally significant. The Nandi Hills and forests hold spiritual importance in local traditions.

• Nandi Hills scenic drives — winding roads through emerald tea plantations with stunning views.
• Athlete tracking — visiting training camps and meeting world-famous runners who call Nandi home.
• Tea plantation tours — walking through the lush tea estates that cover the county.
• Tinderet Forest — hiking in the forested highlands with birdwatching and nature walks.
• Kapsabet market — experiencing local Nandi culture and produce.