Marich Pass

Viewpoints in West Pokot County

Marich Pass: A Memorable Driving Experience

The North Rift region of Kenya is celebrated for road descents that offer thrilling experiences for travelers, combining stunning scenery with exhilarating drives down winding mountain passes and steep hillsides. Few could rival the descent over the Elgeyo Escarpment, either at Nyaru or Iten with, perhaps, no better example than Marich. It is a steep descent, dropping altitude thick and fast from 6,110 ft to 1,500 ft at Lokichar Plains. It is, simply, a memorable driving experience.

The Marich Pass features a series of hairpin bends and offers breathtaking views as it descends through the picturesque Cherangani mountainscape, looping and bending on a rocky cleft carved where Muruny River emerges from range. 43 km from Kapenguria town, at Ortum, the excitement with many motorists eager for a memorable drive and superb scenery is almost palpable. Ortum center marks the beginning of the wondrous joyride of Marich Pass. This spectacular section of the A1 road winds its way through the mountains, crossing over the jaw-dropping views. It features steep gradients, sharp curves, and utterly dramatic scenery

On the map, the road appears to go straight as an arrow through the hills, yet, nowhere is the loss in altitude from 6,110 ft in Kitale to 1,500 ft at Kainuk better demonstrated. At Ortum, the road begins to drop and wind along a rocky cleft carved where the Muruny River emerges from the Cheranganis, simply known as Marich Pass. The hair-raising drive down Marich Pass cuts the Cherangani Hills from the Sekerr Ranges, passing past the abrupt peaks of Morobus Hill, to its north, and the Samor Hills, to its south, which mark the unofficial gateposts of the superb Marich Pass. It’s a heart-stopping and memorable 41 kms joyride.


From stunning views of the Great Rift Valley to serene coastlines, Kenya is blessed with breathtaking viewpoints that offer travelers unforgettable panoramas. These destinations not only provide amazing photo backdrops but also inspire awe and appreciation for the natural world. Showcasing the diversity and beauty of our planet, these viewpoints are sure to leave an indelible mark on your journey.


Touring West Pokot County in Kenya offers a chance to explore a region known for its iconic, rugged landscapes, vibrant cultures, and rich traditions. Located in the extreme northwest part of the country, bordering Uganda, West Pokot County is primary inhabited by the Pokot community, known for their pastoralist lifestyle.

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What’s The Air Like In W. Pokot?

West Pokot has significant variations in temperature with the lower lands experiencing temperatures of up to 33oC, and highlands experiencing modest temperatures of 15oC.

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