Located right in the middle of Kenya’s Rift Valley, the Kericho Tea Farms combine beauty, agriculture, and history.
Being among the world’s largest tea-producing regions, Kericho is not only famous for its mesmerizing landscapes but also its economic importance to Kenya’s flourishing tea industry.
The production of tea from Kericho is significant in placing Kenya as the third-largest tea producer country in the world, after India and Sri Lanka.
It is estimated that the Kericho region produces about 40-50% of the total tea production in Kenya.
The peculiar climatic conditions here, with regularly falling rains and fertile volcanic soils, create the perfect conditions for superior-quality tea.
As a matter of fact, most of the globally recognized tea brands get their tea leaves from these farms.
Amazingly, it could be that the very tea you drink in your morning cup on different continents originated from Kericho without your knowledge.
Where is it Located?
Kericho is located in Western Kenya.
It takes about 4 to 5 hours from Nairobi, depending on whether the traffic or weather is good.
The route cuts through scenic views, as one gets to drive through the Great Rift Valley and its escarpments, with beautiful stops along the way, making it a good road trip.
Things to Do at Kericho Tea Farms
1. Kericho Tea Plantation Tours
Guided tours enable guests to familiarize themselves with every step involved in the production of tea, right from the gentle plucking of the leaves to the packaging of Kenya’s famous teas.
These trips are at once informative and interesting, as one gets to witness the behind-the-scenes details of one of the region’s key industries.
2. Visiting Kericho Tea Factory
Have a personal touch of how tea is processed at one of the busy tea factories in Kericho, such as the famous Kaisugu Tea Factory.
Take a guided tour through the factory floors to witness the transformation of the freshly picked leaves into the tea you find in your cup.
Witness the accuracy and skill behind every step of the process.
3. Bird Watching in Chepkorio Forest
Kericho is not all about tea; the environs are a bird watcher’s haven.
Chepkorio Forest, near Kericho, is a habitat for various species of birds, including the endangered Ross’s Turaco.
Enjoy a quiet day; walk through the forest and take in the view of nature, capturing some rare snaps.
4. Nature Walks and Photography
The tea farms are so beautiful to behold.
Picturesque scenery with a serene atmosphere gives the perfect place for nature walks and photography.
Strolls through the verdant plantations at sunrise or sunset will give an experience of tranquillity to the soul, very much essential for relaxation and reconnecting with Nature herself.
Final Tips
One should not forget the camera for capturing the beauty of endless tea farms.
Book a guided tour in order to get a more in-depth look into the production process of tea.
Lastly, remember to buy some freshly processed tea to take home-perfect as a gift for any tea lover.
