Uasin Gishu

Eldoret is the capital of Uasin Gishu County and one of Kenya's fastest-growing highland cities. Often called the City of Champions, it sits at roughly 2,100 metres above sea level and has become a well-known hub for long-distance running and high-altitude athletics training.

The city grew from early 20th-century settlement when Afrikaner farmers arrived on the Uasin Gishu plateau, and its name is linked to the Maasai word 'eldore', meaning stony river. Today landmarks such as Kipchoge Keino Stadium, Moi University and the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital reflect its role as a regional centre for sport, education and healthcare.

The central business district is compact and busy, while residential and commercial areas such as Elgon View, Langas and Kesses give the city a varied character. Rupa's Mall and Zion Mall are popular shopping and social spots, and the municipal market is a lively place to see fresh produce from the surrounding farms.

Eldoret's economy revolves around agriculture, agro-processing, trade, education and healthcare, making it a key gateway to western Kenya and the North Rift. The food scene features Kenyan staples such as ugali, sukuma wiki, nyama choma and mutura, alongside local dairy products from the region's milk and cheese tradition.

For travellers, Eldoret combines a relaxed highland atmosphere with practical connections: Eldoret International Airport, the Nairobi-Kampala highway and a growing hospitality sector support both leisure visitors exploring nearby training camps, Nandi Hills and the Cherangani Hills, and business travellers working across the region.