Nestled in the heart of Baringo Central, just 12 kilometers from Kabarnet town, lies the Kimng’ochoch Community Conservancy-a hidden gem where nature, culture, and history converge in a breathtaking tapestry. This conservancy, born from the collective vision of the Kimng’ochoch elders in 2012, has grown into a vibrant community-driven initiative that not only protects the land but also preserves the rich cultural heritage of the community.
Kimng’ochoch Conservancy is more than just a well-preserved forest. It's a living testament to the power of community conservation. With 400 registered members and 2,048 direct beneficiaries across the regions of Sacho Mosop, Kabasis, Kibonjos, and Ngetmoi, this conservancy represents the beating heart of local environmental stewardship.
But Kimng’ochoch is also a place steeped in history. The Royal Campsite, named after frequent visits by Kenya’s second president, Daniel Arap Moi, and once a favoured retreat of Queen Elizabeth II, speaks to its regal allure. Imagine walking the same paths that hosted key cabinet meetings and international dignitaries, feeling the echoes of history under your feet. It’s no wonder that even today, the site continues to attract visitors from all walks of life, including USA's Donald Young and Kenya’s top athletes, who come here to train, seek inspiration, and find solace in its serene beauty.
The forest itself is a sanctuary of biodiversity. Towering Indigenous trees, some over 500 years old, stand as silent guardians over the land, while medicinal plants and a rich array of bird species, call this place home. The place is also a corridor for wildlife including lions, leopards, and elephants. The Thunder Cave, where black-and-white colobus monkeys play, and the mystical God’s Window, offering panoramic views of Lake Baringo, Lake Bogoria, Mt. Kenya, the Aberdare Range, and Kerio Valley, are just a few of the natural wonders that await exploration.
For centuries, Kimng’ochoch has been a place of spiritual significance, where elders came to offer sacrifices under a sacred tree, seeking divine intervention during times of famine and disaster. Today, the site continues to serve as a spiritual haven, with churches, schools, and individuals gathering here to pray, especially during national examination seasons, believing that their prayers will be answered and excel in their academic journey.
Culture thrives here too, with the Kimng’ochoch women's group leading the charge in preserving Kalenjin traditions. From cultural dances to the creation of traditional attire like the ‘Sume,’ these women have woven the threads of the past into the fabric of the present, ensuring that the heritage of their people endures.
Kimng’ochoch Campsite Community Conservancy is not just a place to visit; it's a place to experience. Whether you're drawn by the promise of adventure, the allure of history, or the tranquillity of nature, this conservancy offers something for everyone.
With plans to transform the site into a premier campsite and an active hub for athletic tourism, now is the perfect time to discover the magic of Kimng’ochoch. Come, be a part of this extraordinary journey, and leave with memories that will last a lifetime.
