Marafa Hell’s Kitchen is one of the most fascinating natural places in Kenya. It is located in the village of Marafa, in Kilifi County, approximately 40 km from Malindi. Its local name is Nyari, which means “the place that broke itself.”

Why Is It Called “Hell’s Kitchen”?

The nickname “Hell’s Kitchen” comes from the intense heat that accumulates in the gorge during the day. The sandstone walls, carved by wind and water over the centuries, take on spectacular shades of red, orange, white and pink, especially at sunset.

The Legend of Marafa

According to the tradition of the Giriama people, a very wealthy village once stood in this place. Its inhabitants had become arrogant and wasted milk even to wash themselves, ignoring those who were suffering from hunger.

As divine punishment, the village sank into the ground, giving rise to the gorge. The colours of the rocks represent the blood, the milk and the wealth of the cattle.