Things To Do
in Kitui

Kitui is a vibrant town located in the eastern region of Kenya, known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes. It serves as the administrative and economic hub of Kitui County, providing visitors with a unique blend of traditional and modern attractions. The town is surrounded by beautiful hills and valleys, making it a picturesque destination for nature lovers.

With its warm climate and welcoming locals, Kitui offers an authentic Kenyan experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Kitui Town
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then visit the Kitui Museum to learn about the region's history and culture.

afternoon
:

Explore the Kitui Market, where you can shop for local crafts and fresh produce. Afterward, take a stroll around the town center and visit local shops.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant, followed by a visit to a local bar for drinks and live music.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Head out early for a hike at the scenic Mwingi National Reserve, where you can enjoy wildlife viewing and stunning landscapes.

afternoon
:

After your hike, have a picnic lunch in the reserve and relax in nature. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Kyangwithya Waterfalls for a refreshing swim.

evening
:

Return to Kitui town for dinner at a traditional restaurant, sampling local dishes and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5
🛒Groceries (weekly)$25
🚌Public transport fare$1
🏨Budget hotel per night$20
💧Bottled water (1.5L)$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Occasional language barriers with locals.
  • Infrastructure may not be as developed as in urban areas.
  • "Jambo" - Hello
  • "Asante" - Thank you
  • "Karibu" - Welcome
  • "Tafadhali" - Please
  • "Kwenda wapi?" - Where are you going?

Places to Visit in Kitui

Visit one of these nice places.

Mwingi National Reserve

A stunning landscape filled with wildlife, perfect for nature photography.

Kyangwithya Waterfalls

Beautiful waterfalls surrounded by greenery, ideal for capturing scenic shots.

Kitui Museum

A place to photograph local artifacts and learn about the region's heritage.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kitui

Kitui offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the region's culture and traditions.

Kitui Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Uji

A traditional porridge made from millet or sorghum, often served for breakfast.

Must-Try!

Nyama Choma

Grilled meat, typically goat or beef, served with ugali and kachumbari.

Mutura

A local sausage made from beef and spices, often enjoyed as street food.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kitui Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and local snacks.

Street Vendors

Various vendors sell snacks like samosas, fried cassava, and grilled meats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kitui has a semi-arid climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. The hottest months are January and February, while the cooler months are June to August. Rainfall occurs mainly between March and May, with occasional showers in October and November.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common; always greet locals politely before starting a conversation.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting rural areas or religious sites.

Respect for Elders

Show respect to elders in the community, addressing them politely.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kitui is generally considered safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night and keep valuable items secure. It's advisable to stay updated on local news and follow any travel advisories.

Tipping in Kitui

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% at restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, mobile payments like M-Pesa are popular and convenient.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Rainy Season (March to May)

Expect heavy rains and cooler temperatures; ideal for lush landscapes but difficult travel conditions.

Dry Season (June to October)

Perfect for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing; the weather is warm and pleasant.

Hot Season (November to February)

Temperatures can soar; stay hydrated and plan activities early in the morning or late afternoon.

Festive Season (December)

Local celebrations take place; experience traditional music, dance, and food.

Nightlife Guide

Kitui at Night

Kitui's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to major cities. Local bars and clubs offer live music, especially during weekends. Popular spots often feature traditional Kenyan music and dancing, providing an intimate atmosphere for socializing with locals.

Hiking in Kitui

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mwingi National Reserve Trails

Offers several trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, showcasing stunning landscapes and wildlife.

Mutomo Hills Trail

A moderately challenging hike with panoramic views of the Kitui region and surrounding areas.

Airports

How to reach Kitui by plane.

Kitui Airstrip

A small airstrip serving light aircraft, primarily for regional flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kitui town is fairly walkable with pedestrian-friendly areas, especially around the market and town center. However, some outskirts may have uneven terrain, making it advisable to wear comfortable shoes. Sidewalks are available in many parts, but be cautious of traffic.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Akamba Community

The predominant ethnic group in Kitui, known for their rich culture and craftsmanship.

Urban Migrants

People from various regions who move to Kitui for work opportunities, contributing to the town's diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular in Kitui, with locals frequently playing in open fields.

Running

Running and jogging are common activities, especially in the early mornings.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kitui is generally light, with most travel done by foot or local matatus (shared taxis). Public transportation is available but can be crowded during peak hours. Roads are mostly unpaved in rural areas, so be prepared for bumpy rides.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kitui.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian meals, but it's advisable to ask for specific options.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited; inform the restaurant staff about your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Kitui include public hospitals and private clinics. While basic medical care is available, more specialized services may require travel to larger cities like Nairobi. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.

Discover Kenya

Read more in our Kenya 2025 Travel Guide.

Kenya Travel Guide