Kapenguria Museum
In the turbulent run-up to Kenya's independence, a number of prominent Kenyans, among which the future first President of the new Republic, Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, were imprisoned in the remote town of Kapenguria. These days the prison is a museum that offers an illustrative background to the end of the colonial days and an interesting description of the main local tribes.
What is there to see?
The museum is in the prison where six of the most influential leaders in the struggle for independence were detained (including Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, Kuguru Karumba, Fred Kubai, Paul Ngei and the Hon. Ramogi Achieng Oneko). On the same grounds are the house of the colonial District Commisioner, a court room and a memorial library in honor of all heroes who participated in struggle for independence. Exhibits revealing pre-colonial Kenya, slavery, the arrival of the first Europeans and the native african resistance to colonial rule complete this section.
In addition, ethnographic galleries, including a Pokot homestead, artifacts and photographic collections of the Pokot people describe the main tribe in this corner of Kenya, the Pokots.
How can I get there?
If you don't have you own vehicle the only way to get to Kapenguria and Makutano is by matatu or minibus. This is a somewhat more remote area and matatus may drive more infrequently than elsewhere. Expect a crowded vehicle!
Where can we stay?
Kitale is too far away to make Kapenguria a day trip. In nearby Makutano are two hotels. To the North is the Marich Pass Field Study Center, which has a camping, bandas and good food.
Where do we go for food and drinks?
See above.
What else is in the neighborhood.
Closeby are the Cherangani Hills with Lenan Forest and the Moray River meandering in between the hills. The scenery is fantastic. Hiking in the Cherengani Hills is described here.
The village of Ortum is beautifully positioned beneath Cherengani Hills 45 kms from Makutano. There is a nice waterfall about 3 hrs walk from the village.
The nice and well shaded campsite near Marich Pass Field Studies Centre also offers guided walks for a day trip or longer.
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