population: 1.71 million
extension: 2,069 square kilometers
If you are in Bungoma, Kenya and interested in visiting museums, I suggest you visit the Kakamega Forest Heritage Center, which is approximately 50 km away from Bungoma. The center showcases exhibits on the cultural heritage, biodiversity, and history of the Kakamega forest. Alternatively, you can also visit the Bungoma County Museum, which is located within the town and features cultural artifacts, traditional homesteads, and information about the county's history and development.
Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat according to local people in Bungoma, Kenya include:
1. Mursik - A traditional Kalenjin dish made from fermented milk that is often served with vegetables or ugali.
2. Obusuma - A staple food made from maize flour that is mixed with water and cooked into a thick porridge-like consistency. It is usually served with sukuma wiki (kale) or nyama choma (grilled meat).
3. Chapati - A flatbread made from wheat flour that is fried on a griddle. It is a popular breakfast or snack item in Bungoma.
4. Ugali - Another staple food made from maize flour that is cooked into a dense, dough-like consistency. It is often served with stews or vegetables.
5. Nyama Choma - Grilled meat, usually beef or goat, that is marinated in spices and cooked over an open flame. It is a popular dish for special occasions such as weddings or celebrations.
6. Sukuma Wiki - A side dish made from kale that is sautéed with onions and tomatoes. It is often served with ugali or rice.
7. Matumbo - Tripe, which is the lining of a cow's stomach, that is boiled and cooked in a spicy sauce. It is a delicacy that is enjoyed by many locals in Bungoma.
Some fun activities that local people enjoy in Bungoma, Kenya include:
1. Hiking Mt. Elgon: This is an exciting adventure that locals love to embark on. Mt. Elgon is located on the border of Uganda and Kenya and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Visiting the Sipi Falls: These three waterfalls are located in Kapchorwa district on the Ugandan side of Mount Elgon, but they are easily accessible from Bungoma. The falls offer stunning views and a chance to swim or take a boat ride.
3. Attending the annual Masinde Muliro Cultural Festival: This festival takes place every December and celebrates the culture and traditions of the Abaluhya tribe, the largest ethnic group in the region. There is music, dance, arts and crafts, food, and lots of fun.
4. Exploring the Bungoma Forest Reserve: This reserve is located within Bungoma town and is popular among locals for its hiking trails, bird watching, and nature walks.
5. Shopping at the local markets: Bungoma has several bustling markets where you can find fresh produce, traditional crafts, and other local products. The most popular market is the Soko Mjinga Market.