Vihiga

Vihiga County is a small, densely populated county in western Kenya, located between Kakamega and Kisumu. It is inhabited primarily by the Luhya people, specifically the Maragoli, Tiriki, and Bunyore subgroups. The county is known for its highly educated population and its scenic green hills.

Mbale serves as the county capital, though Vihiga town is also an important centre. The landscape is a patchwork of small farms growing tea, coffee, maize, and bananas. The county has a cool highland climate.

The dry months of December to March and June to September are best. The rainy seasons are March–May and October–November.

Vihiga is on the Kisumu–Kakamega road. Matatus run from Kisumu and Kakamega to Mbale, Vihiga, Luanda, and other towns.

• Mbale — the county capital, a market town in the Maragoli hills.
• Luanda — a town on the Kisumu–Kakamega highway.
• Chavakali — a town in the Vihiga highlands.
• Vihiga — the town after which the county is named.
• Serem — a town near the Nandi border.
• Kilingili — a rural settlement in the Vihiga highlands.

Luhya cuisine includes ugali, chicken, fish, traditional vegetables (like mito and tsimboka), and chapati. Maragoli specialities include mursik (fermented milk) and traditional porridge.

The Maragoli, Tiriki, and Bunyore have distinctive cultural traditions, including the Tiriki's unique initiation ceremonies and traditional dances. The area has a strong Christian heritage.

• Maragoli Hills — scenic walks through the green hills and farms.
• Mbale market — experiencing local Luhya trading culture.
• Chavakali Mission — a historic mission station with a school and church.
• Kakamega Forest day trip — the nearby rainforest is one of Kenya's top birding destinations.