Eldoret Town Kenya Guide
Eldoret Town is the fifth largest town in Kenya after Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu and Nakuru. Eldoret Kenya is located in Rift Valley Province, Uasin Gishu County, Lying south of the Cherangani Hills Forest. It has an estimated population of about 200,000 people and is among the fastest growing town in Kenya.
Eldoret Town Climate and Geography
The climate of Eldoret is classified as warm and temperate. There is a great deal of rainfall in Eldoret, even in the driest month.The temperature has an averages of 15.3 °C. The average annual rainfall is 1263 mm.
The least amount of rainfall occurs in July. The average in this month is 27 mm. The greatest amount of precipitation occurs in April, with an average of 294 mm.
Eldoret Town History
The name “Eldoret” is based on the Maasai word “eldore” meaning “stony river” because the bed of the nearby Sosiani River is very stony. The white settlers decided to call it Eldoret to make it easier for them to pronounce it. At start of the colonial era, the area was occupied by the Nandi, before that by the Maasai and before that the Sirikwa.
In 1908, fifty eight families of Afrikaans-speaking South Africans settlers “trekked” to the Uashin Gishu plateau from Nakuru after a journey from South Africa by sea and by rail from Mombasa. They were followed by sixty more families in 1911 and more later. Eldoret was established in the midst of the farms they created.
The official town site of Eldoret itself started in 1910 with a Post Office on what was known to the white settlers as “Farm 64”, “64” or “Sisibo” to the locals because, at that time it was 64 miles from the newly built Uganda Railway railhead at Kibigori. Willy van Aardt owned the farm. The Central Lounge in Eldoret Kenya is all that remains of Willy’s farm.
The Uganda Railway extension, from Kibigori toward Uganda, reached Eldoret in 1924, starting a new era of prosperity and growth. In 1928, a piped water supply from the Sosiani River was installed. In 1933, the East African Power and Lighting Company installed an electricity generator plant. By that time, Eldoret had a small airport and low-rental housing had been constructed.
Daniel arap Moi was born in the neighbouring Baringo District and under his presidency, the town was developed further.In 1984, Moi University was established by the government and named after the country’s 2nd president Daniel arap Moi.
The town is now home to a large market, Moi University and Eldoret International Airport. It is also known for its cheese factory. Major industries include textiles, wheat, pyrethrum farming and corn. The town has a number of factories.
Economic Activities in Eldoret Town
Eldoret town is also surrounded by a very agricultural area and for this reason is home to many farmers. Some of whom carry a lot of political and economic clout, including the Kibogys and the Chemwenos.
Eldoret Kenya is also home to a number nationally recognised manufacturing industries like Raiplywoods, Ken-Knit, Lochab Brothers, Kandola and Son’s. All these industries were set up and developed by some of the oldest Indian origin families in the rift valley region namely The Rai’s, The Kandola’s, The Shah’s, The Lochab’s and The Patel’s.
Eldoret town has a number of estates. Almost each estate has it identity. Some of the estates include; Elgon View, Langas, Huruma, Kapsoya, Kahoya, West Indies, West, Kipkaren, Kimumu, Jerusalem, Pioneer among many others.
There is a growing professional crowd emerging in Eldoret now, whose presence is being felt in the town. Due to the Moi Referral and Teaching Hospital and Eldoret Hospital, which is also having specialised radiology services and Doctors Plaza, there is a host of experienced doctors. Among lawyers, the oldest firm in the region is Nyairo and Company, which was founded by Momanyi Alfred Nyairo in the sixties and is now run by his son A.K. Nyairo.
Eldoret town is also home to the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF)’s High Altitude Training Center for Kenyan and international athletes.
Education Institutions in Eldoret Kenya
Eldoret Kenya is home to Moi University with a student population of 14,855 as of 2006. The second medical school in Kenya, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), is also located in within the city limits of Eldoret Town. Eldoret Polytechnic, the third national polytechnic, is also located in the Eldoret town.
Sports in Eldoret Kenya
Eldoret Kenya is the hometown of numerous legendary Kenyan runners, the most renowned of whom is Kipchoge Keino. The high altitude is an ideal training ground for many middle and long distance athletes. The runners from Eldoret have contributed significantly to the economy of Eldoret town from their winnings in races all over the world.
Things to do and Places to Visit in Eldoret Town
- Sunjeel Palace
- Will’s Pub & Restaurant
- Doinyo Lessos Creameries Cheese Factory
- Hindu Temple
- Open-Air Fruit & Vegetable Market
- Town Hall
- Church
- Clubs in elodert
- Cheey Sam’s Nightclub
Night Clubs and Nightlife in Eldoret Town
- Eclipse Lounge
- Black Bamboo Lounge
- Opera club
- Tango
- Club Signature
- Spree Discotheque
- Heritage Club
- Club Destiny
- Segero Lounge
- Laiska Lounge
- Proprietary Destiny Night Club
- Signature Club & Restaurant
- Rubis Club
Eldoret Town Map
Accommodations and Hotels in Eldoret Town
1. Naiberi River Campsite and Resort – Eldoret Kenya
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
Set in tropical gardens that slope down to the river, Naiberi River Campsite and Resort has an appealing variety of accommodation and facilities. Stone paths wind through the lush gardens, linking the cottages and cabins with the restaurant and swimming pool.
For more information please visit: Naiberi River Campsite and Resort
2. Twiga Resort – Eldoret Kenya
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
Twiga Resort, meaning Giraffe Resort in Swahm, started lite as an athletes’ training center, Now owned by Albert Chepkurui, a Kenyan born athlete who runs for Qatar, the center has been developed into a rural resort.
For more information please visit: Twiga Resort
3. Relax lnn Simba Village – Eldoret Kenya
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
Entered beneath an arch of tusks, Relax lnn Simba Village has a quirky collection of murals and statues set in landscaped gardens. The inn has friendly staff and budget accommodation. It is situated next to the showground between Eldoret town and Eldoret airport.
For more information please visit: Relax lnn Simba Village
4. Marriott Hotel – Eldoret Kenya
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
The Marriott Hotel, which is not affiliated to the international chain of hotels of that name, opened in 2007. The hotel styles itself a country hotel in an athletics town. It is set in manicured gardens between Eldoret town and Eldoret airport.
For more information please visit: Marriott Hotel
5. Sego Safari Lodge – Kerio Valley Kenya
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
In the lush Kerio Valley, Sego Safari Lodge offers a tranquil escape, off the beaten track. This bird watchers‘ paradise is within easy reach of Rimoi Game Reserve and Cheblock Gorge.
For more information please visit: Sego Safari Lodge
6. Lelin Campsite and Bandas – Kerio Valley Kenya
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
In the stunning Kerio valley, Lelin Campsite and Bandas has a selection of rustic accommodation. The campsite offers lovely views and provides the perfect place from which to hike through the valley and up the escarpment. The area is known for prolific birdlife and striking craggy terrain.
For more information please visit: Lelin Campsite and Bandas – Kerio Valley Kenya
7. Kerio View – Iten Kenya
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
From this idyllic spot on the escarpment, Kerio View has panoramic views over the stunning Keno Valley. its glass-fronted restaurant and cottages ensure magnificent views on ail sides.
For more information please visit: Kerio View
8. Eldoret Club
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
Eldoret Club, a private members club, was established in 1924, in large manicured grounds on the edge of Eldoret. Non-members can pay a temporary membership fee to use the accommodation and facilities.
For more information please visit: Eldoret Club
9.The Nobel Conference Centre – Eldoret Kenya
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
outskirts of Eldoret The Nobel Conference Center has accommodation and conference facilities in attractive gardens. The hotel and conference center opened in 2008.
For more information please visit: The Nobel Conference Centre
10. Klique Hotel – Eldoret Kenya
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
Klique Hotel, conveniently located on Eldoret’s main business street, is a tail modern building. The hotel offers a variety of styles of accommodation between its secure underground car park and its rooftop terrace.
For more information please visit: Klique Hotel
11. White Castle Motel – Eldoret Kenya
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
A prominent white building in the center of town, the White Castle Motel offers accommodation within easy reach of all the shops, restaurants and businesses of Eldoret. Its higher floors have views of the town, the Sergoit Hill and the Nandi Hills.
For more information please visit: White Castle Motel
12. The Pearl Hotel
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
Pearl Hotel offers comfortable accommodation and professional conference facilities which makes it ideal for business and leisure.
They well-appointed rooms with king-size beds and en-suite bathrooms. All of these rooms have work desks and TVs, while some rooms also have tea and coffee facilities as well as private balconies.
For more information please visit: The Pearl Hotel
13. Starbucks Hotel Eldoret
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
The Starbucks Hotel Eldoret is located in Eldoret Town in the North Rift Region of Kenya. It is a quality hotel with good business and conferencing facilities. It is also conveniently located between the airport and city center. Eldoret is the biggest town in the North Rift Region, as well as being the capital of Uasin Gishu County. The hotel offers airport shuttles from the Eldoret airport at a fee.
For more information please visit: Starbucks Hotel
14. Ndupawa Hotel
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
Ndupawa Hotel Eldoret is located 3 km from Eldoret CBD and 10 mins drive away from the Eldoret Intentional Airport.
For more information please visit: Ndupawa hotel
15. Poa Place Resort
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
The center has quiet parks with lawns, flowers, shady trees, and ponds for soothing, refreshing, peaceful, and therapeutic nature. At the small park you will be able see snakes, birds, monkeys, baboons, tortoise and much more.
For more information please visit: Poa Place Resort
16. Hotel Sirikwa
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
Sirikwa Hotel, named after a sub-tribe of the Maasai that inhabited this area in the 18th century, is an expansive building with a striking white facade. The large entrance hall, with 2 sweeping staircases, gives a faded impression of the early days of this hotel.
For more information please visit: Hotel Sirikwa
17. Winstar Hotel
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
Winstar Hotel is situated in Eldoret only 15 minutes’ drive from the airport. The hotel offers a range of accommodation options in 85 rooms, has a restaurant, sports bar and conference facilities.For more information please read below:
For more information please visit: Winstar Hotel
18. Hotel Baron
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
Hotel Baron offers accommodation in Eldoret. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant and bar. Free WiFi is provided throughout the property and free private parking is available on site.
For more information please visit: Hotel Baron
19. Hotel Comfy Eldoret
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
Hotel Comfy is a luxurious facility located in the heart of Eldoret CBD, Uasin Gishu County and is within a close proximity to the Eldoret International Airport which is approximately a 15 minute drive away.Free wireless internet access is available all through the lodge premises.
For more information please visit: Hotel Comfy
20. Cicada Hotel
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
Cicada Hotel is located along Off Iten Road, Behind Uasin Gishu County Hall, boasts of its conference and business centre services. Its location in the heart of Eldoret Town makes it a favorable spot for business and transit travelers.
For more information please visit: Cicada Hotel
21. Boma Inn Eldoret
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
The Boma Inn Eldoret is located 13km (15 minutes drive ) from Eldoret International Airport, 5 Km (7 minutes dive) from Eldoret city centre, 340 Km to Nairobi Central Business District (CBD). Boma Inn Eldoret offers 68 luxury deluxe guest rooms, having a modern contemporary design with a traditional African touch in different room categories that will cater for your needs.
For more information please visit: Boma Inn Eldoret
22. Eldo Bliss Hotel
Category: Hotels in Eldoret Kenya
Eldo Bliss Hotel is state-of-art hotel right in the heart of Eldoret Town.This hotel is suitable for travelers travelling on a budget.
This hotel offers Standard and Deluxe room all comfortably furnished. Each room offers twin or single beds, LCD TVs with DStv and free Wi-Fi. There is a spacious conference- and board-room that is suitable for business meetings, training and seminars.
For more information please visit: Eldo Bliss Hotel
Eldoret Town Kenya- Photos
Eldoret Town – Eldoret KenyaEldoret Town Kenya- Video
More About Kenya
Kenya is a world unto itself. Kenya is Africa’s original safari destination, attracting explorers, adventurers, and travelers for centuries. A safari to Kenya is a trip of a lifetime.
Other Towns in Kenya
Apart from Nairobi , Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret Town, Kenya has other major towns each a unique representation of the country’s striking abundance in flora and fauna. Most of these towns are headquarters in their respective counties or major economic bases in their regions. Luxury hotels and lodges located here provide good accommodation and conferencing facilities for guests who dare to try out a taste different from the capital or the coast.
For more information visit: Towns in Kenya
Hotels and Accommodation in Kenya
Hotels in Kenya vary enormously in price and facilities. Luxury hotels in Kenya offer excellent standards of service and are comparable to the best hotels anywhere in the world. Kenya’s abundance of natural produce, combined with the rich variety of cultures and traditions, has created a great culinary nation.
The fertile volcanic soil of the Rift Valley produces a bounty of fresh vegetables, while the coast is a great source of tropical fruit and fresh seafood. The Kenyan coast is also the home of the world-renowned Swahili cuisine, a blend of Middle Eastern and African cooking with a particular coastal twist.
For more information visit: Hotels in Kenya
Tourist Attractions in Kenya:
Kenya has one of the world’s greatest tourist attractions sites, known for its diversity of landscape, wildlife, and cultures. From sweeping savannahs to tropical beaches and coral reef, dense equatorial forests to mighty snow-capped mountains, and more.
For more information visit: Tourists Attractions in Kenya
Kenya Safari
Kenya is the ultimate safari destination, providing travelers with a window into the heart of Africa. But this is not all that Kenya has to offer. Located near the equator, Kenya´s magic lies in the fact that the country encompasses an astounding variety of landscapes and climates, flora and fauna, as well as communities and cultures, home to water sports, a swim with dolphins and adventure.
For more information visit: Kenya Safari
The Kenyan People Culture and Tradition
Kenya’s culture blends together diverse tribes, traditions, and religions into one beautiful, well-woven tapestry. These traditions complement each other while incorporating the modern influences of globalization – resulting in a vibrant cultural spirit that is uniquely Kenyan. Kenya has over 42 different tribes with different languages and several dialects. Kenyan tourism has made the Maasai and Samburu tribes the most famous because of their long preserved culture.
For more information visit: Kenya People and Tribes