Things To Do
in Machakos
Machakos is a welcoming town in eastern Kenya perched on the plains east of Nairobi, surrounded by rolling hills and agricultural fields. It blends urban charm with rural culture, offering markets, crafts, and panoramic viewpoints. The area is known for its friendly Akamba communities, vibrant markets, and easy access to both nature and culture.
Weather is typically warm with distinct wet and dry seasons, making it a versatile year-round destination.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by visiting the Machakos People's Park, where you can enjoy a refreshing morning walk amidst lush greenery and beautiful sculptures. After soaking in the serene environment, head to the Machakos Museum to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Akamba people. Don't forget to grab a local breakfast at a nearby café, sampling traditional Kenyan dishes like uji and mandazi.
In the afternoon, explore the vibrant local market where you can buy handmade crafts and fresh produce. Engage with local artisans as they showcase their skills, and perhaps pick up some souvenirs to take home. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local eatery, savoring dishes like ugali and sukuma wiki while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll along the Machakos Town, experiencing the hustle and bustle of the evening crowd. Find a cozy restaurant to enjoy dinner, where you can try local specialties while listening to live music performances. After dinner, relax at a café, sipping on chai as you reflect on your day's adventures.
Start your day with a visit to a local village where you can participate in traditional Akamba dances and learn about their cultural practices. Interact with the villagers and witness the making of traditional crafts such as wood carvings and basket weaving. This immersive experience will give you a deeper appreciation for the rich culture of the Akamba people.
After lunch, join a workshop on bead-making, a significant craft within the Akamba community. Here, you can create your own unique piece of jewelry while engaging with local artisans who share their stories and techniques. The afternoon will be filled with laughter, creativity, and a sense of connection to the local heritage.
In the evening, attend a cultural performance featuring traditional music and dance at a local community center. This vibrant showcase will leave you captivated as you enjoy the rhythm and spirit of the Akamba culture. Conclude your evening by enjoying a simple dinner at a nearby restaurant, reflecting on the day's enriching experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $0.50-2 |
| 🚌Local transportation (matatu ride) | $1-3 |
| 🛍️Local souvenirs | $5-20 |
| 🏨Hotel night (budget) | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a relaxed, authentic Kenyan town experience
- Accessible markets, crafts, and nearby rural landscapes for day trips
- Limited nightlife compared with coastal or metropolitan destinations
- Public transport can be irregular outside peak hours
- "Habari yako?" - How are you?
- "Asante sana" - Thank you very much
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Samahani" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Mambo?" - What's up? / Hello
Places to Visit in Machakos
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft early light over the town and surrounding fields provides warm, cinematic silhouettes.
Wide, sweeping views of the plains, distant ridges, and patchwork farms—great for landscapes.
A serene riverside spot with reflections and changing light, ideal for tranquil nature shots.
Vibrant colors, textures, and candid portraits of vendors as they set up for the day.
Food in Machakos
Machakos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Juicy grilled meat (usually goat or beef) served with ugali or chapati and a fresh tomato-onion relish.
Must-Try!
A staple starch paired with sautéed kale or collard greens and sometimes meat or beans.
Flaky flatbread served with spiced vegetable or meat curries; a popular street-food pairing.
Mashed potatoes mixed with greens and sometimes maize, a hearty comfort dish found in many homes and eateries.
Maize and beans simmered with vegetables; a simple, filling option often served with greens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling daily market with fresh produce, grains, spices, and opportunities to sample street snacks.
Smaller market offering seasonal produce and quick local bites near surrounding communities.
Along main roads and market lanes, look for chapati, grilled maize, samosas, and simple stews.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people politely with a handshake or warm hello; use respectful titles with elders.
Use the right hand for giving and receiving items or money; it is considered polite.
Dress modestly in rural areas and avoid public displays of affluence; ask for permission before photography of people.
Safety
Tipping in Machakos
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and hotels, a 5-10% tip is customary if service is good; not always expected in casual eateries.
Cash is widely accepted; mobile money (e.g., M-Pesa) is very common for bills and small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Heavy rainfall and muddy roads; plan for slower travel but lush landscapes and fewer crowds.
Relatively milder showers with green scenery; good for photography but watch for occasional downpours.
Hot days with cooler nights; ideal for outdoor activities and clear skies.
Pleasantly warm days, occasional light rain; comfortable for exploration and photography.
Machakos at Night
Hiking in Machakos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular lookout hikes near Machakos with expansive views of farmlands and distant ridges; suitable for a half-day return trip.
Scenic rural hike through agricultural landscapes connected to surrounding communities; varies with season and weather.
Airports
How to reach Machakos by plane.
Major international hub near Nairobi, about 60-70 km from Machakos; accessible by road via highway and standard road transport.
Domestic airport serving Nairobi-area flights; convenient for short domestic hops and charter services; about a 1.5–2 hour drive from Machakos.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The region has a strong Akamba presence with rich craft traditions, language, and cultural practices. You'll encounter multilingual communities with Swahili widely spoken in daily life.
A mix of farmers, market traders, and town workers, creating a vibrant blend of urban and rural lifestyles.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played at schools, clubs, and informal leagues; local matches often draw community involvement.
Track and field interest grows in schools and community events; road races and school meets are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Machakos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted to vegetarian needs; ask for ugali, chapati, sukuma wiki, beans, and vegetables.
Ugali is maize-based and gluten-free; confirm flour-based items with staff and opt for grilled vegetables and legumes.