Machakos, Kenya
Region: Machakos County
Geographic Coordinates: -1.516700, 37.266700
Temperature Range: 15.0°C to 30.0°C (59°F to 86°F)
Climate: Dry and hot weather with occasional rainfall during the months of October to December and March to May.
Population: 114109
Language: Kamba
Machakos is a lively town situated in the Eastern Province of Kenya, Approximately 63 kilometers southeast of Nairobi. It serves as the capital city of Machakos County, With a population of around 1.5 million individuals. The town has an extensive past dating back to the pre-colonial era when it was a significant trading center for ivory and slaves. One of Machakos’s most notable features is its hilly terrain, Providing stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The town sits at an altitude of 1, 200 meters above sea level and is enclosed by hills over 2, 000 meters high.
These hills are famous among hikers and rock climbers who come to explore their rugged beauty. Machakos also boasts several natural attractions such as Masinga Dam that provides hydroelectric power to much of Kenya’s central region. The dam is also a popular spot for fishing and water sports like boating and kayaking. The town has an active cultural scene with various festivals held throughout the year celebrating traditional dances, Music, And food. Masaku Sevens Rugby Tournament is one such famous festival in Machakos that attracts thousands from all over Kenya every year.
The economy mainly relies on agriculture in Machakos with maize being one major crop grown alongside other cash crops like coffee beans and tea leaves in nearby farms owned by small-scale farmers who sell their produce locally or export it internationally. In recent years, Machakos has seen rapid development with new commercial buildings sprouting up around its central business district (CBD). This development has led to increased job opportunities for locals while attracting foreign investors looking to tap into its growing economy.
visitors can experience Kenya’s rich cultural heritage while enjoying breathtaking natural scenery that includes hillsides covered in lush green vegetation dotted with wildlife like monkeys swinging from tree branches or antelopes grazing on grassy plains when they visit Machakos. It is a town with a rich history and promising future, Making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore Kenya’s vibrant culture and natural beauty.
- Machakos People’s Park
- Kyamwilu Hill
- Masinga Dam
- Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park
- Iveti Hills Forest Reserve
- Kituluni Hill
- Masaku County Stadium
- Machakos Golf Club
- Maanzoni Sanctuary Safari Camp
- Fourteen Falls
- Agriculture – Machakos is known for its fertile land and is a major producer of crops such as maize, beans, and fruits.
- Tourism – The county has several tourist attractions, including the Machakos People’s Park, Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park, and the Masinga Dam.
- Manufacturing – Machakos has a growing manufacturing sector, with companies producing goods such as textiles, furniture, and construction materials.
- Healthcare – The county has several hospitals and clinics that provide healthcare services to residents.
- Education – Machakos has a well-developed education system, with several primary and secondary schools, as well as universities and colleges.
- Transportation – The county has a well-developed transportation system, with several major roads and highways connecting it to other parts of the country.
- Telecommunications – Machakos has a growing telecommunications sector, with several companies providing mobile and internet services to residents.
- Real estate – The county has a thriving real estate market, with several developers building residential and commercial properties.
- Financial services – Banks, microfinance institutions, and other financial service providers operate in Machakos to cater to the financial needs of residents and businesses.
- Energy – The county has several renewable energy projects that generate electricity from sources such as wind and solar power.
- The establishment of Machakos as the administrative center of Eastern Province in 1920.
- The construction of the Machakos Railway Station in 1898, which was a major transport hub for goods and passengers traveling between Mombasa and Nairobi.
- The role played by Chief Mbiti wa Kivulu in resisting British colonial rule during the early 20th century.
- The establishment of the first African-owned newspaper, Syokimau News, in Machakos in 1933.
- The founding of Masaku Football Club (now known as Sofapaka FC) in 1960, which has since become one of Kenya’s most successful football teams.
- Notable people from Machakos include former Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki, Olympic gold medalist David Rudisha, musician Eric Wainaina, and athlete Paul Tergat who grew up there before moving to Ngong Hills where he trained for his running career.
- In recent years, Governor Alfred Mutua has implemented various development projects including building a stadium that can host international matches among others.
- Machakos People’s Park is a public park with beautiful scenery, picnic areas, and walking trails.
- Kituluni Hill is known for its gravitational pull that defies the laws of gravity.
- Machakos County Museum showcases the history and culture of the Machakos people.
- Masinga Dam provides water to surrounding communities and is also a popular spot for fishing and boating.
- Maanzoni Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary with various species of animals such as giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and ostriches.
- Ukambani Arts Centre promotes local artists’ works in painting, sculpture, music, dance, and poetry.
- Kyamwilu Magic Corner is a unique natural phenomenon where rocks appear to move uphill by themselves.
- Kamba Pottery is a pottery center where traditional African pottery is made using ancient techniques.
- Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park located on Mount Kilimambogo offers scenic views of Nairobi city.
- Lukenya Hills are a hiking destination with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Machakos People’s Park Festival is an annual event that features music, dance, and cultural performances.
- Masaku 7s Rugby Tournament is a popular rugby tournament that attracts teams from all over Kenya and beyond.
- Kilimambogo Marathon is an annual marathon held in Machakos County that brings together athletes from all around the world.
- Mavoko Festival celebrates the diverse cultures of Mavoko sub-county through music, dance, food, and art.
- Kitui-Machakos Cultural Festival is a joint festival between Kitui and Machakos counties that celebrates their shared cultural heritage.
- Ngelani Cultural Festival is an annual festival celebrated by the Kamba community to showcase their traditional dances, music, and food.
- Kyuso Cultural Festival celebrates the culture of the Kyuso people through traditional dances, songs, and storytelling.
- Maanzoni Food & Wine Tasting Event allows visitors to sample some of Kenya’s finest wines and foods while enjoying live entertainment in a beautiful setting at Maanzoni Lodge in Athi River area near Machakos County.
- Mutungo – a traditional Kamba dish made with maize flour and served with vegetables or meat stew.
- Mbuzi Choma – roasted goat meat, a favorite among locals.
- Matumbo – tripe stew served with ugali (maize meal).
Some popular restaurants in Machakos, Kenya include:
- The Smokehouse – known for their delicious grilled meats and burgers.
- Tafaria Castle and Country Lodge – offers a fine dining experience with a view of the beautiful Machakos landscape.
- Kwa Muka Restaurant – serves authentic Kamba dishes such as Mutungo and Mbuzi Choma in a cozy atmosphere.
- Machakos People’s Park is a public park that offers walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds for visitors to enjoy.
- Mavoko Municipal Park is a recreational park that offers sports fields and picnic areas for visitors to relax in.
- Machakos Golf Club is a golf course that welcomes the public to come and play.
- Fourteen Falls is a beautiful waterfall with hiking trails and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.
- Lukenya Hills Game Ranch is a wildlife sanctuary that provides guided tours and camping facilities for those interested in exploring nature.
- Kyamwilu Hill Forest Reserve is a forest reserve with hiking trails and birdwatching opportunities available for visitors who love the outdoors.
- Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and scenic views of Mount Kilimajaro for those who want to experience nature at its finest.
- Athi River Mining Recreational Club provides outdoor recreation options such as swimming pools, tennis courts, and other sports facilities.
