Have you ever chased a rainbow?
No, really. Not in the philosophical, “follow your dreams” kind of way. But in the literal, splash-in-your-face, slippery-rocks, heart-thumping kind of way?
Well, welcome to Chepkiit Waterfalls, where rainbows aren’t just symbols of hope — they’re practically a natural feature on the map.
Located just 15 minutes from Eldoret town, Chepkiit isn’t your average picnic spot. It’s a roaring, mist-spraying, selfie-demanding spectacle of raw beauty and drama, hidden in Uasin Gishu’s lush green folds. If Eldoret were a movie, Chepkiit would be the plot twist.
So, What’s the Big Splash?
Chepkiit (also spelt Kipkiit or Kipkuit, depending on how excited you are when typing) means “place of pouring water” in Kalenjin. And boy, does it pour.
The waterfall plunges into a gorge with the kind of force that makes your chest vibrate — and your Instagram followers jealous. Add the constant sunshine (this is Kenya, after all) and you’ve got rainbows arcing through the mist like nature’s own disco lights.
Bring your camera. Bring your adventurous spirit. Leave your white sneakers at home.
Why People Love It (and Why You Might Scream a Little)
1. The View? Insane.
Stand on the viewing platform and gaze down into the gorge. You’ll either feel awe, vertigo, or a deep existential appreciation for the fact that you’re not a fish.
2. The Rainbows.
Thanks to the spray and sun, Chepkiit is basically a rainbow factory. You’ll spot vibrant arcs from different angles — especially around mid-morning or late afternoon. And yes, they move. Hence the chasing.
3. The Adrenaline.
There are trails, footbridges, and rocky paths. Some parts feel like an Indiana Jones sequel (but with more goats and fewer snakes). Adventurous souls can scramble right down to the base — just don't tell your mum till you're back.
Picnic With a View? Yes, please.
There are quiet grassy areas near the falls where you can lay out a blanket, snack on samosas, and let nature provide the soundtrack. It's the perfect spot to feel deeply poetic or to finally open that book you've carried in your bag for three months.
Pro tip: watch out for monkeys. They don’t believe in personal space.
How to Take the Perfect Rainbow Selfie
- Visit between 10am–4pm when the sun hits the spray just right.
- Wear something colourful. Let the rainbow feel challenged.
- Use a phone with wide-angle mode, or bring a tripod for that “I-just-happened-to-look-this-fabulous” shot.
- Don’t fall in. Seriously. Slippery rocks + rainbow enthusiasm = TikTok fail video.
How to Get to Chepkiit Waterfalls
From Eldoret town:
- Take the Eldoret–Kapsabet Road.
- Turn off at Chepkoilel (University of Eldoret).
- Ask locals — they’re friendlier than Google Maps and may even offer to guide you (just agree on the price first).
Entry fees are minimal (less than a plate of fries), and the views are worth a million shillings. Plus, the area’s safe, accessible, and surprisingly under-explored. Meaning: you can still brag about “discovering” it.
What to Pack (and What to Leave)
? Good walking shoes
? Water bottle
? Snacks for fuel (and bribery in case monkeys get ambitious)
? Camera or phone with lots of storage
? White clothes (unless you want to end up looking like a watercolour painting)
Final Thoughts: Worth the Chase?
Absolutely. Chepkiit Waterfalls is the perfect mix of thrill, chill, and rainbow-filled wonder, tucked away just enough to feel like a secret.
Whether you're a local looking for a weekend thrill, a tourist exploring beyond the usual, or just someone who enjoys yelling “WOOOOW!” at large bodies of water — this spot delivers.
So go ahead. Chase that rainbow. Chepkiit’s waiting.
