What to Expect and How to Make the Most of Your Time in Kenya
As your trip to Iten gets closer, we wanted to share some friendly advice from the first people you are likely to meet: Willy Songok, our Lead Tour Guide and Emmanuel Kipruto, our Lead Run Guide.
Between them, they have decades of experience welcoming runners to the Rift Valley. Their advice is simple, honest, and full of character – just like life in Iten.
“Hello my friend,
My name is Willy Songok, and I will be your lead guide here in Iten. I have been welcoming guests to Kenya for many years, and it always makes me happy to see people from around the world come to enjoy our country, our running culture, and our way of life.
Before you arrive, we want to share some tips, not big things, but just a few pieces of advice to help you settle in and enjoy your time. Kenya is a beautiful place, and when you take things as they come, you will find a lot to smile about.
Safe travels, and see you soon.”
1. Be Ready to Leave Your Comfort Zone
Willy: “In Iten, life is different. The roads are dusty, the days start early, and sometimes the power goes out without warning—but this is all part of the experience. When you let go of your usual routines and open your heart to something new, that is where the real magic happens.”
2. Things May Not Always Go as Planned (And That’s Okay!)
Willy: “Here in Kenya, we are used to adapting. Sometimes the weather changes, a cow walks through the middle of the road, or a meeting starts a bit late. We smile and keep going. If you can be flexible, you will enjoy the rhythm of life here. If something doesn’t go exactly as expected, just know we are always here to make it right.”
3. Don’t Take Time and Distance Too Seriously
Willy: “If someone here says, ‘It’s just a short run,’ be ready—that might mean 12km, and yes, there will be hills! When we say ‘we leave at 10,’ sometimes that means 10:15. At camp, we run on a schedule, but outside of that, relax and enjoy the flow. We believe that not everything needs to be rushed.”
4. Road Rules & The First Few Days
Emmanuel: “When you arrive, you might feel excited to run fast straight away. But I always tell guests: run pole pole (slowly, slowly). For the first three days, leave your ego at home. Also, remember to always run on the left side of the road, that is how we do it here!”
5. Practical Essentials: Suncream & SIM Cards
Emmanuel: “The sun is very strong at altitude, even when it’s not hot. Please bring suncream from home, as it is hard to find good quality options in town. Also, I recommend getting a Safaricom SIM card at Nairobi Airport when you land. It is quick, and the 4G connection in Iten is much better than WiFi for staying in touch.”
”“Karibu sana. You are most welcome here, and we are excited to share our home with you. Bring your smile, bring your running shoes, and come with an open heart. We will take care of the rest.”
Willy Songok
About the Authors
Willy Songok (Lead Tour Guide)
Willy is often the first face you’ll see in Kenya. A veteran guide with a deep love for his country, he is an expert at helping international guests navigate the cultural nuances of life in the Rift Valley.
Emmanuel Kipruto (Lead Run Guide)
Emmanuel is your guide on the red roads. With years of experience supporting international guests, he ensures you navigate the unique terrain of Iten safely and with a smile.
”“I will see you soon in Iten. Come with open heart and open mind, and I promise we will run well, laugh a lot, and enjoy the experience together. Karibu sana."
Emmanuel Kipruto
