Things To Do
in Machakos
Machakos is a town located in southeastern Kenya, about 64 kilometers southeast of Nairobi. It is the capital of the Machakos County and serves as an important administrative and economic center in the region. The town is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, as well as its vibrant markets and traditional craft industries.
Machakos is surrounded by scenic landscapes, including rolling hills and lush greenery, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- "Habari gani?" - How are you?
- "Asante sana" - Thank you very much
- "Karibu" - Welcome
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Sawa" - Okay
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike at the Machakos Peoples Park, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful landscapes. The park offers well-marked trails that cater to all fitness levels.
Enjoy a picnic lunch at the park while soaking up the sun and vibrant surroundings. Afterwards, visit the Machakos Golf Club for a leisurely round of golf or simply relax in the shade.
Wind down your day with a visit to a local restaurant for some authentic Kenyan cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely meal while watching the sunset over the hills.
Begin your adventure at the nearby Nairobi National Park, just a short drive away. Look for lions, giraffes, and rhinos in their natural habitat.
After a morning filled with wildlife, return to Machakos and visit the Machakos Animal Sanctuary. Here, you can interact with various animals while learning about wildlife conservation.
Cap off your day with a special dinner at a local eatery known for its grilled meats. Savor traditional dishes while sharing the day's best moments.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Nairobi, making it a convenient location for commuting to the capital for work or business.
- A growing urban infrastructure with developing amenities such as schools, hospitals, and markets.
- Rich cultural heritage and diversity, offering a variety of cultural experiences and community events.
- Agricultural potential due to favorable climate conditions, leading to opportunities in farming and agribusiness.
- Tourist attractions such as the Machakos Peoples Park and various natural landscapes, promoting local tourism.
- Rapid urbanization leading to challenges such as traffic congestion and strain on public services.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities, resulting in some economic challenges for residents.
- Potential issues with water supply and management, particularly during dry seasons.
- Pockets of poverty that exist alongside development, leading to inequalities in access to resources.
- Environmental concerns related to urban sprawl, including deforestation and habitat loss.
Best Activities in Machakos
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful hills and enjoy stunning views of the landscape while hiking in Machakos.
Enjoy water activities such as boat rides and fishing at the scenic Masinga Dam.
Experience nature by camping near the famous Fourteen Falls and enjoy the sound of the roaring waterfalls.
Tours
Uncover the best of Machakos with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Machakos
Visit one of these nice places.
A park with scenic views, jogging trails, and elevated platforms for capturing panoramic photos of Machakos.
A picturesque hill offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for photography and sightseeing.
A unique vantage point to capture the beauty of Machakos and its surrounding areas, with the added feature of windmills against the backdrop.
Food in Machakos
Machakos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Ugali, a maize-based staple, is often paired with sukuma wiki, a nutritious and flavorful collard greens dish. This simple yet delicious combination is a staple in Kenyan homes and can be savored at local eateries like Mama Njoro's in Machakos town.
Must-Try!
Mbuzi Choma, succulent grilled goat meat seasoned with Kenyan spices, is a beloved dish in Machakos. For an authentic experience, head to the Machakos People's Park where several vendors serve up this delicacy along with a side of kachumbari (fresh tomato and onion salsa).
Mukimo is a hearty mashed dish made from maize, beans, potatoes, and greens, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying side dish. To savor this traditional favorite, visit Tootsie’s Restaurant, known for its delectable Mukimo in Machakos.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Machakos better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub of activity, Machakos Central Market offers an array of fresh produce, spices, and other local ingredients. It's also an excellent spot to sample street foods like grilled maize, roasted sweet potatoes, and mandazi (fried dough) from various vendors.
At Kola Viewpoint, visitors can relish a variety of street foods, including smoky mishkaki (grilled meat skewers), fried cassava, and crispy bhajias, while taking in panoramic views of the stunning landscape.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Machakos, it is important to greet people politely when meeting them, especially elders, as a sign of respect and courtesy.
It is customary to dress modestly in Machakos, especially when visiting more traditional or rural areas, to show respect for the local cultural norms.
When invited into someone's home in Machakos, it is polite to accept and eat the food offered, as declining may be seen as a sign of disrespect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Machakos with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Machakos
Ensure a smooth experience
In Machakos, Kenya, tipping is not a widespread practice. It is not customary to leave a tip at restaurants or for other services. However, in some tourist-heavy areas, a 10% tip may be appreciated for exceptional service.
Cash is the primary mode of payment in Machakos, Kenya. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash when visiting Machakos for payments at shops, restaurants, and for other services.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Machakos.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with clear skies, warm temperatures, and great conditions for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife viewing.
Expect occasional showers, lush green landscapes, and fewer crowds. Good time for birdwatching and enjoying nature.
Wettest period with heavy rainfall, cooler temperatures, and some road closures. Ideal for experiencing the region's natural beauty but not ideal for outdoor activities.
Machakos at Night
Hiking in Machakos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that offers breathtaking views and a challenging hike.
A popular hiking spot that provides a stunning view of Mount Kilimanjaro on a clear day.
A series of hilly trails that offer various hiking challenges and beautiful landscapes.
An urban forest with well-marked trails suitable for hiking, walking, and jogging.
A serene forest area that features trails ideal for nature walks and hiking.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Machakos through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Machakos by plane.
Located approximately 30 kilometers from Machakos, this is the main international airport serving Nairobi, Kenya's capital.
Located about 35 kilometers from Machakos, Wilson Airport mainly serves domestic flights but is also a hub for regional flights in East Africa.
Approximately 245 kilometers from Machakos, this airport serves the city of Eldoret and the surrounding region, offering both domestic and international flights.
Located about 310 kilometers from Machakos, Kisumu International Airport serves Kisumu City and connects to various regional destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Kikuyu are the largest ethnic group in Kenya and are known for their agricultural practices. In Machakos, they form a significant portion of the population.
The Kamba people are indigenous to the Eastern region of Kenya, including Machakos. They are known for their rich culture and history in trade and agriculture.
The Luhya are one of the major ethnic groups in Kenya and have a presence in Machakos. They are known for their diverse cultures and languages.
The Luo community has migrated to various parts of Kenya, including Machakos. They are well-known for their fishing and agricultural practices.
Various other ethnic groups and communities reside in Machakos, contributing to the region's diverse cultural landscape.
The Soul of Machakos
Discover the essence of Machakos through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Machakos, with numerous local clubs and teams participating in regional leagues.
Rugby has been gaining popularity in Machakos, with community teams and rugby academies encouraging youth participation.
Athletics is a widely practiced sport in Machakos, with many young athletes participating in track events and marathons.
Basketball is popular among the youth in Machakos, with several schools and community courts available for play.
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and communities, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Machakos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Kenyan cuisine heavily features meat, many eateries in Machakos offer vegetarian and even vegan alternatives. Notably, The Garden Restaurant provides a variety of plant-based dishes, including lentil stews and coconut curry, catering to different dietary preferences.
Diners with gluten sensitivities can find options such as grilled fish with steamed vegetables or rice-based dishes at Java House Machakos, which is attentive to dietary needs and offers gluten-free selections on their menu.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Machakos with these cultural adventures.
