Kisii, a lively town in Nyanza, is constantly described as the heartbeat of the Gusii Highlands. With its scenic green hills, rolling tea plantations, busy markets, and dynamic culture, Kisii has also become a business hub and a tourist destination.
Though all tourists consider it as a stopover when traveling to Kisumu, Maasai Mara, or Lake Victoria, Kisii itself holds some treasures to unveil. This blog post will explore some of the best places to visit in Kisii, their facts and what makes them worth visiting.
1. Kisii Soapstone Quarries
Kisii is famously known for its soapstone carvings, and a visit to the Tabaka soapstone quarries is an absolute must. Here you can witness firsthand the incredible artistry of native sculptors who give blocks of soapstone life in the form of stunning carvings.
It is interesting from stone mining all the way to hand-carving beautiful designs that are locally and globally exchanged. Soapstone items range from the classic African animal and human figurines to modern home decorations such as bowls and ornaments.
Aside from shopping, a visit to the quarries offers an opportunity to meet with artisans, learn about the soapstone’s cultural use, and even get to do some carving practice. Assuring these people the preservation of their culture and economy is guaranteed. If you desire authentic souvenirs, there is no place better than Tabaka.
2. Kisii Highlands Tea Plantations
The Kisii Highlands are covered with lush green tea plantations, which paint the landscape in breathtaking beauty. These plantations aren’t just picturesque but also form a major part of the region’s economy. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the farms, where they learn about the tea-growing process, from planting to harvesting and processing.
You’ll see farmers plucking tea leaves by hand, a practice that has remained unchanged for decades. Touring a tea plantation offers a chance to savor freshly brewed Kenyan tea, which is well known around the world for its smell and strength.
The rolling hills and fresh air also make such plantations great places for photography and recreation. If you enjoy nature, culture, and a cup of tea, this is one of the best experiences to be had in Kisii.
3. Manga Hills
Manga Hills are some of the most iconic features in Kisii, offering both cultural history and scenic beauty. Located at the border of Kisii and Nyamira counties, these hills not only offer visual beauty but a historical link to the Abagusii people as well.
Oral folklore holds that Manga Hills were a place where people settled as they moved and still possess spiritual powers. Today, they attract trekkers, nature enthusiasts, and historians. A walk up the hill rewards guests with stunning landscapes of the Kisii highlands, towns nearby, and Lake Victoria in the horizon on a clear day.
The location is also very biodiverse, and therefore the ideal location for bird watching and picnics. For those who love outdoor adventures with a dash of cultural heritage, Manga Hills should be included in your travel calendar.
Kisii Town Central Market
No visit to Kisii would be full without visiting the busy Kisii Central Market. One of the largest open-air markets in western Kenya, it is a colorful spot where the locals exchange fresh fruits and vegetables, clothing, handicrafts, and domestic commodities.
The market is particularly renowned for fresh bananas, one of the main foods in Kisii. Visiting the market itself is an experience, there are colorful stalls, aromas of fresh fruits, and colorful scenes of haggling. For the tourists, it is the best place to sample local fruits, try a bite at traditional cuisine, and buy authentic Kisii baskets or mats.
The market is also a good chance to interact with the locals and see the daily life of Kisii. It’s busy, colorful, and full of character, a true reflection of Kisii’s culture.
Kisii National Polytechnic Grounds
The Kisii National Polytechnic is not just an educational institution, it also serves as a cultural and community hub. Its expansive grounds often host exhibitions, cultural shows, and regional events that showcase the creativity and traditions of the Gusii people.
For visitors, it’s a perfect site to observe indigenous performances from ancient dances to modern art shows. The polytechnic also provides experimental works where students innovate products from Kisii culture, combining contemporary technology and ancient creativity.
A tour of the school presents you with the vitality of Kisii youngsters and commitment to progress. It’s a great destination for visitors with a keen interest in education, culture, and community progress.
Kisii Golf Course
Hidden amidst the green Kisii highlands, the Kisii Golf Course is a serene getaway for golfers and non-golfers alike. Established in the colonial era, this golf course is a popular spot for residents around Kisii and visitors to unwind and appreciate nature.
The undulating greens are dotted with beautiful scenery, and it is a nice place to visit and unwind. Whether golf is your game or not, the club facilities offer a peaceful environment in which you can sip refreshments and enjoy stunning views.
The course is also visited as a social venue, often for tournaments and group excursions. Relaxation, leisure, or even opportunities for business networking await at the Kisii Golf Course.
Sameta Hills
Sameta Hills is another gem in Kisii, highly valued for both cultural heritage and natural attraction. Located in Bobasi, the hills are deeply incorporated in Gusii culture and are most often related to folklore and oral tradition.
Hiking the Sameta provides excellent views of the surrounding landscape, with rolling hills, valleys, and plantations stretching as far as the eye can see. The area is also a haven for nature lovers, offering opportunities for birdwatching and exploring indigenous plants.
Local communities living around the hills are welcoming, and you’ll often hear fascinating stories passed down through generations. Whether you’re interested in hiking, photography, or learning about local traditions, Sameta Hills is an unforgettable stop in Kisii.
Nyakoe Market
Nyakoe Market is a vibrant market in Kisii, but smaller than Kisii Central Market and yet equally culturally rich. It is very well known for bananas and other fruits, which are in plenty for sale.
The market provides a real experience of life as normal to the people of Kisii, from fruit vendors arranging fruits in vibrant piles to customers bargaining aggressively and in a laughing mood.
Visitors can sample freshly roasted maize, enjoy ripe bananas, or buy woven items like baskets and mats. Nyakoe Market is less crowded than the town’s central market, making it easier for travelers to move around and interact with locals. If you’re looking for an authentic, down-to-earth experience, Nyakoe is the perfect stop.
River Riana Falls
Hidden within Kisii’s lush landscape, River Riana Falls is a natural treasure worth exploring. The waterfall is not too large but is surrounded by serene greenery that makes it an ideal spot for relaxation and photography.
The gentle sound of falling water and the fresh air make the location a serene haven, ideal for picnics or individual introspection. Local guides are available to lead you along the trails to the falls, where you will have a glimpse into the flora and fauna of the region.
For the more adventurous, the surrounding countryside is also accessible for short hikes. River Riana Falls is a reminder of nature’s beauty in Kisii and a must-see for those who appreciate serene nature retreats.
