Marafa Depression: The Artistic Leftover

Only in Kenya will you visit a location and learn the peculiar yet interesting tales that describe how various places came to be. In the western region, there is a story that tells of Simbi Nyaima; in Machakos County, there is a fable that speaks to the Kyamwilu Hill; in the southern region stays a narrative about Lake Chala; and at the Kenyan coast, a rather unique tale describes how the Marafa Depression came to be. 

Marafa goes by other names: Hell’s Kitchen – like the famous international cooking show, and Nyari – which is a local dialect that translates to ‘the place that broke itself’. 

Physically, Marafa can best be described as a canyon, the artistic leftovers of many years of continuous soil erosion. But local folklore tells another story… so let’s indulge. 

Hadithi Hadithi? 

There was once a vibrant community where the depression now sits. Like many communities of past times, this one too had seers who could foretell events to come. Seers were respected people in the community because their gift was divine, and so one particular seer in this community informed the people that a miracle was on the horizon, and in order for this miracle to be fulfilled, the people needed to leave their home. The people obeyed and the exodus happened as planned. All left except one woman who was adamant about leaving. She was left in the abandoned town which soon after mysteriously vanished, leaving a depression in its place. And time, sun, and wind continued to mould the depression into what it is today… clearly, a place that broke itself. 

Located within Malindi County, about 30 kilometres from Malindi town, the Marafa Depression is one of a kind on this side of the world and stands out as one of Kenya’s most incredible geological sites. More so, it tops the ‘must-see’ list of things to do in Malindi and has for years attracted both local and international tourists. Its jagged landscape blanketed by brown-red-white-pink soils coupled with the scorching coastal sun is perhaps (and understandably so) what gives the area the name synonymous to a blazing kitchen. 

And while this site is evidently a physical feature, its preservation is just as important as cultural sites. For this reason, it is a community-run initiative which is sponsored by the government and the aim is to help give back to the community while ensuring the site is protected. To access this expansive, unusual yet remarkable area, all you need is about 150 Kenya Shillings and a camera to add this Kenyan place to your travel gallery. 

Have you been to the Marafa Depression aka Hell’s Kitchen? Share with us your experience in the comment section.