Where the Hills Are Forever Green
Rising from the rolling highlands of southwestern Kenya, Kisii County is a land of emerald hills, misty mornings, and landscapes so lush they seem to glow after every rainfall. It is a destination where nature flourishes, culture thrives, and creativity is carved into stone.
Welcome to Kenya's green highlands.
Blessed with a cool climate and fertile volcanic soils, Kisii is one of the country's most scenic regions. Endless tea plantations blanket the hillsides, banana groves, and thriving farms paint the valleys in shades of green, while winding roads reveal breathtaking panoramas at every turn. Whether you're exploring the countryside, hiking through the hills or simply enjoying the fresh mountain air, Kisii offers an escape into one of Kenya's most beautiful landscapes.
The county is perhaps best known around the world for its remarkable Kisii soapstone. Mined from the hills of Tabaka, this unique stone has been transformed by generations of skilled artisans into intricate sculptures, home décor, jewellery and works of art that have found their way into galleries and homes across the globe. A visit to Tabaka offers travellers a rare opportunity to watch master craftsmen shape raw stone into beautiful creations using skills passed down through generations.
Beyond its famous artistry, Kisii is a county rich in culture. The traditions of the Abagusii people are reflected in colourful ceremonies, music, dance, storytelling, and warm hospitality. Local markets buzz with activity, traditional cuisine celebrates the bounty of the fertile highlands and visitors are welcomed into a way of life that remains deeply connected to the land.
Nature lovers will also discover waterfalls, forested landscapes and scenic viewpoints scattered across the county. Birdsong fills the cool morning air, while the rolling countryside provides excellent opportunities for hiking, cycling, photography and leisurely drives through some of Kenya's most picturesque rural landscapes.
For those seeking authentic experiences, Kisii's tea farms, coffee plantations and vibrant agricultural communities offer fascinating insights into the region's farming heritage. Visitors can learn how some of Kenya's finest produce is cultivated while enjoying spectacular views across the surrounding hills.
Kisii is a place where beauty is found in the details—the sculptor's careful hands shaping soapstone, the morning mist drifting over tea-covered hills, the laughter of busy markets and the timeless rhythm of life in the highlands. It is peaceful yet vibrant, traditional yet creative, and unforgettable in its quiet charm.
Come for the green hills. Discover the artistry, the culture and the warmth of the Abagusii people. Leave inspired by a county where nature and craftsmanship exist in perfect harmony.