Travel & holidays
Things to do in Lower Eastern Kenya: Machakos, Makueni and Kitui
Ol Donyo Sabuk, Fourteen Falls, Machakos People's Park, the Chyulu Hills and Makindu: what to see and do in Lower Eastern Kenya.
Lower Eastern covers 3 counties: Machakos, Makueni, Kitui. Highlights include Machakos People's Park, Chyulu Hills National Park, Nzambani Rock.
About the region
Lower Eastern Kenya stretches south-east from Nairobi along the road to Mombasa. It's drier country, with dramatic hills and rock outcrops. Ol Donyo Sabuk and Fourteen Falls are easy day trips from Nairobi, and the green Chyulu Hills rise above the plains near Tsavo West.
Getting there and around
The Nairobi–Mombasa highway runs through Machakos and Makueni counties, so many places are easy stops on the way to the coast. Kitui is reached via Machakos.
County by county
Machakos
County 16 · headquarters: Machakos
- Machakos People's Park: Lake, gardens and family activities.
- Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park: Hike or drive up the mountain for wide views.
- Fourteen Falls: Waterfalls on the Athi River near Ol Donyo Sabuk.
Makueni
County 17 · headquarters: Wote
- Chyulu Hills National Park: Green volcanic hills, lava flows and caves.
- Makindu Gurdwara: A historic Sikh temple on the Nairobi–Mombasa road, welcoming travellers.
- Kibwezi Forest and Umani Springs: Groundwater forest and natural springs.
Kitui
County 15 · headquarters: Kitui
- Nzambani Rock: A large granite rock with local legends and views.
- Tsavo East's northern edge: Remote wilderness bordering the park.
Local research is needed for most visitor services.
Before you go
Opening hours, entry fees and event dates change, so check them with the operator, the Kenya Wildlife Service or the county government before you travel. Places in this guide were last checked on 19 Oct 2026. If something has changed, tell us.
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do in Machakos?
Visit Machakos People's Park, hike or drive up Ol Donyo Sabuk, and see Fourteen Falls.
What are the Chyulu Hills?
A young volcanic range between Tsavo West and Amboseli, protected as a national park, with lava flows, caves and wide views.
Can I stop at the Makindu Gurdwara?
Yes. The historic Sikh temple on the Nairobi–Mombasa road is known for welcoming travellers. Dress modestly and cover your head inside.
Sources
- Kenya Wildlife Service — park entry fees
- National Museums of Kenya
- Magical Kenya — Kenya Tourism Board
Links are for reference only. METRIKA is independent and not affiliated with or endorsed by these organisations.
Last reviewed 19 Oct 2026. METRIKA gives estimates and general information, not financial, tax, legal or immigration advice.