Iten: Kenya's Home of Champions
Your comprehensive guide to the world's running capital from training with Olympic champions to experiencing the unique culture and breathtaking landscapes of Kenya's highlands
Altitude
2,400m
Above sea level
Kenya Experience
High Altitude Training
Running Camps
Local Language
Swahili/English
Widely spoken
Famous For
Elite Runners
Olympic champions
Getting to Iten
Your journey to the home of champions
The Journey to Iten
Getting to Iten requires some planning, but the journey is part of the adventure as you transition from bustling Nairobi to the serene highlands of the Rift Valley.
Step 1: Fly to Nairobi
International travelers arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, Kenya's main international gateway.
Major airlines flying to Nairobi:
Step 2: Nairobi to Eldoret
From Nairobi, you'll need to make your way to Eldoret, the largest city near Iten.
Domestic flights
45 minutes flight time. Kenya Airways and Jambojet operate daily flights from Nairobi to Eldoret International Airport.
Bus or matatu (minibus)
5-6 hours journey. Easy Coach and Modern Coast provide reliable services with scheduled departures throughout the day.
Private car hire
More flexibility, allowing for stops at viewpoints over the Rift Valley. Flexible timing but more expensive.
Step 3: Eldoret to Iten
From Nairobi, you'll need to make your way to Eldoret, the largest city near Iten.
Matatu:
Shared minibuses, most economical option (300-500 KES / $3-5)
Taxi:
Safer and more comfortable. Negotiate fare before departing (3500 – 4000 KES / $ 30)
Prearranged pickup:
Kenya Camp Training camps offer pickup services from Eldoret
Visa Requirements
Everything you need to know about Kenya's entry requirements
Tourist Visa Application
Kenya has streamlined its visa process with an e-visa system that makes application straightforward for most travelers.
1.Online Application
Visit the official Kenya e-visa portal (evisa.go.ke)
2.Register Account
Create an account with your personal details
3.Complete Application
Fill in travel information and purpose of visit
4.Upload Documents
Passport scan, recent photograph, and travel itinerary
5.Pay Visa Fee
$51 for a single-entry tourist visa
6.Receive Approval
Processing typically takes 2-3 business days
Visa Categories
Single-entry tourist visa
Valid for three months from issue date, allows up to 90 days stay. Extension possible for another two months.
Transit visa
If you're stopping in Kenya for less than 72 hours
East Africa Tourist Visa
For travel between Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda (up to 90 days)
Required Documentation
-
Passport valid for at least six months beyond planned departure
-
At least two blank passport pages
-
Return ticket or proof of onward travel
-
Proof of accommodation in Kenya
-
Sufficient funds for your stay
-
Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if required)
Safety Considerations
Tips for a safe and enjoyable visit to Iten
Current Safety Situation
Iten itself is generally considered safe for visitors. Its reputation as a training haven depends on maintaining a secure environment for international athletes, and the community is welcoming to visitors who respect local customs.
The town has a small-community feel where people tend to look out for one another. Many foreign athletes and coaches have lived in Iten for years without significant safety concerns.
Practical Safety Tips
1.Run with a group
Especially when exploring new routes. Training camps often organize group runs.
2.Road awareness
Traffic drives on the left in Kenya. Roads may lack sidewalks, so be vigilant.
3.Secure valuables
Keep valuables locked in your accommodation. Consider a portable safe.
4.Local contacts
Exchange numbers with accommodation staff or coaches who can assist if needed.
5.Cultural sensitivity
Dress modestly when not training, as Kenya remains relatively conservative.
Health Considerations
The high altitude of Iten (2,400m) presents specific health considerations:
1.Altitude acclimation
Allow 1-2 weeks to properly adjust. Start with light activity and gradually increase.
2.Hydration
Altitude and exercise increase fluid needs; drink more water than usual.
3.Sun protection
The equatorial sun is intense at altitude. Use high-SPF sunscreen.
4.Medical insurance
Ensure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation and altitude treatment.
Before You Travel:
-
Get recommended vaccinations
-
Antimalarial medication
-
Pack a basic medical kit
-
Consult doctor about altitude
Medical facilities:
The nearest well-equipped hospital is in Eldoret, about 30-40 minutes by car from Iten. For minor issues, Iten has basic medical facilities familiar with treating common running injuries. The highlands of Iten and Eldoret are malaria free, so antimalarial medication is not needed, except maybe for those who travel around the country
Running Culture in Iten
Experience the training environment that has produced countless champions
Famous Running Routes
Iten offers unmatched access to train with world-class athletes, blending elite running culture seamlessly into everyday Kenyan life and experience.
Morning Runs
Join the 6 a.m. community runs that depart from various points around town. These range from easy recovery runs to more structured sessions.
Track Sessions
Tuesday and Thursday mornings typically see organized track workouts at Kamariny Stadium, where you might find yourself sharing a lane with Olympic medalists.
Fartlek Thursdays
The famous Kenyan fartlek sessions often happen on Thursdays along the dirt roads. These are challenging but welcoming to visitors who can handle the pace.
Take the leap, break through your limits, and elevate your life physically and mentally—at Kenya Camp
Hugo van den Broek , Kenya Camp, Founder & Head Coach
Famous Running Routes
Pond Loop
- Popular -
A loop around Iten, with half of it on tarmac, and the other half on dirt roads. This includes a 700m long hill, which is often used for hill reps by elite Kenyans.
Distance: 7.8km Elevation Gain: 200m
Singore Forest
- Trail -
Soft trails through eucalyptus forests offer respite from the roads and cooler temperatures on hot days.
Distance: 8-12km Elevation Gain: 200m
Pound Loop
- Tempo -
A rolling 14km circuit popular for tempo runs, with a mix of tarmac and dirt roads.
Distance: 14km Elevation Gain: 175m
Sergoit Loop
- Advanced -
Perfect for long runs, almost fully on dirt roads. Going out more downhill, with lots of uphill in the second half of the run. Not for the faint-hearted.
Distance: 30km Elevation Gain: 300m
Natural Attractions & Scenery
While running might be your primary reason for visiting Iten, the region offers much more to explore during recovery days.
Cultural Experiences
Local Markets
Visit Iten's fruit and vegetable market (daily) or the main market (Saturdays) when people come from all surrounding villages to sell their local produce and crafts.
St. Patrick's High School
This famous institution, under the guidance of Brother Colm O'Connell, has produced countless champions. Arrange a visit to see where many running careers began and learn about the legendary training system.
Traditional Kalenjin Homesteads
Some local families welcome visitors to experience traditional rural life,These provide insights into the community that has produced so many champion runners.
Church Services
Sunday church services provide insight into the spiritual life that many athletes credit as crucial to their success. Visitors are typically welcomed warmly, and the singing and celebration are memorable.
Where to Stay in Iten
Finding the right place to stay enhances your Iten experience, with options ranging from immersive Kenya Camp with options ranging from an immersive Kenya Camp experience, to a stay based on accommodation and meals only.
The Hub
Choose from our premium accommodations designed specifically for athletes. When you join Kenya Camp, your stay and food are included in the price.
The Lodge
At The Lodge, we provide the perfect environment for runners, athletes, and visitors looking to experience the best of Iten. Since 2013, we've welcomed guests from around the world.
Runner-Friendly Lodging
Athlete-Focused Meals
Meals tailored to athletes' nutritional needs with early breakfast options before morning runs.
Flexible Schedules
Flexible meal times to accommodate training schedules and early morning runs.
Recovery Facilities
Recovery areas and sometimes basic gym equipment to support your training.
Running Connections
Connections to local running groups and coaches for training. Insightful seminars on key running topics
When Elite Athletes Train in Iten
-
For stays of a month or more, negotiate monthly rates for significant discounts
-
Consider for group stays, which can be more economical and provide greater independence
-
Internet connectivity has improved high-speed connections everywhere
Running Camps & Coaching
What to Expect at Running Camps
Structured Training
Organized workouts with coaches and local athletes
Recovery Facilities
Baoarding & Lodging, gyms, massage services at some locations
Local Connections
Access to local running groups and training partners
Cultural Immersion
Experience Kenyan lifestyle and training philosophy
Kenya Camp
Founded by coach and former elite marathoner Hugo van den Broek, 24+ years of experience, coaches elite and amateur runners worldwide. This facility offers accommodation, meals, training programs and coaching.