Culture

The peoples of the area are the Tugen and the Il Chamus (or Njemps) with the Pokot living slightly further north, and visiting the area to graze cattle or trade. A few Turkana have migrated to the area. There is very little cultivation owing to the long hot dry season, followed by the habitually violent rains in May, and most inhabitants survive on their goats, sheep and cattle supplemented by fishing catfish and tilapia, as well as harvesting wild fruits and berries.

Robert's Camp have a long-standing relationship with communities from each tribe and have a range of activities to enable visitors to learn more about their fascinating cultures.

Njemps

At the end of the 18th century a mix of Maasai and Samburu arrived to settle in this area, and by the end of the 19th century they were keeping cattle and fishing. The Njemps, who still keep livestock, fish and cultivate on the eastern shores of Baringo, are one of the smallest tribes in Kenya, and the only Maa-speakers who fish: using balsa-wood canoes to cross the lake and fish.

Pokot

Traditionally nomadic pastoralists, the local Pokot people are one of the last remaining tribes in Kenya who have been relatively unaffected by Western influence. They are colourful people, with interesting traditions and lifestyle.

Tugen

The Tugen are a tribe whose name is given to the magnificent hills where they live. They are part of the Kalenjin group of tribes, producing some of the best runners in the world. The Tugen hills are also home to Orrorin Tugenensis, which is the second oldest hominoid skull in the world. It was discovered in 2003 and archaeologists have dated it back 6 million years. There’s also a museum, perched on the edge of the hills.

Turkana

Traditionally from further north, leading a harsh lifestyle on the rocky shores of Kenya’s massive lake Turkana, there are now many Turkana in Baringo area and a village which guests can visit.