GDC is stretching the frontiers of Kenya’s geothermal ecosystem. As Eric Wamanji writes, the Company is reimagining the steam world from power generation to leisure and recreation.
The Menengai Caldera in Nakuru County is spectacular by every metric. The volcanic activity that later created the crater produced a dramatic landscape of hills, ridges, volcanic rocks, gorges, and caves. The vegetation is equally diverse: shrubs, thickets, and trees. Menengai has it all.
Now add geothermal development to the picture: huge green pipes interlacing this striking terrain, hauling superheated steam to power plants; geothermal wells occasionally discharging steam; and drilling rigs at work. The result is a perfect cocktail of a unique adventure offering.
And this is the treasure that the Geothermal Development Company (GDC) is seeking to tap into- Geothermal tourism.
“There’s great potential for tourism here,” says Mr. Stephen Busieney, the Ag. Managing Director and CEO. “We’ll turn Menengai into a paradise. As for now, we’re engaging different stakeholders to onboard this into this exciting new frontier.”
The company has identified a 20 km circuit, already paved road for biking, trekking and jogging. Eng. Joseph Mberia who oversees infrastructure works at GDC has assured of a fit accessibility for different users. Those who want a bit of endurance hiking will also find some steep ascents fascinating. For those who just love tranquillity, GDC has a serene arboretum.
It is this dramatic character of Menengai that gives it an edge as a prospective tourism site. GDC understands that as much. Now, GDC is reimagining Menengai not just as a source of Kenya’s highly sought-after energy, but also as a centre for health and fitness, leisure, and recreation. Thus, the dawn of geothermal tourism is upon us.
GDC’s plan for geothermal tourism is a masterstroke. This diversification is part of a broader philosophy of optimal and sustainable utilisation of geothermal resources. The bold gesture is innovative, as GDC continues to push the boundaries of what is possible.
“There is a need for adventure tourism. That is what we are proposing here in Menengai. The inquiries we receive for tours and excursions are an indication that there is a market,” explains Mr. Busieney.
The Nakuru Tourism Association (NTA) finds this new concept fascinating. During the World Tourism Day a few moons ago, NTA members thronged the Menengai caldera to have a first-hand experience of the site.
Mr David Maina, the Chairman of NTA, hailed GDC for its visionary steps towards a holistic utilisation of geothermal resources, especially in the tourism sector.
“We appreciate that GDC is even set to establish a resort spa in Menengai. That will be a game changer in many ways. Importantly, it will help make Menengai a key attraction hub in the region,” he observed.
Rich history
The site also has a rich history. It once served as a hideout for Mau-Mau freedom fighters, and the caves – lava tubes – are still intact. In addition, local communities have developed a series of myths and legends around the caldera.
Like many volcanic sites around the world, Menengai carries intriguing stories. Its volcanic formations, together with the myths and legends surrounding them, offer a worthwhile diversion from the usual and the ordinary.
Its proximity to Nakuru CBD and accessibility adds to the mix, making Menengai irresistible.
But GDC’s geothermal tourism dream does not end with Menengai. Going forward, projects are being designed with tourism in mind. In this way, opportunities for tourism, employment, and commerce can all be expanded.
At the summit of the caldera, curio shop dealers idly away this afternoon. Not so many visitors, says Samuel Karanja, a trader. But his eyes light up on the prospect of turning Menengai into a proper tourism hub.
“That’s what we want. It will open room for more visitors,” Karanja enthuses. “Visitors who come here always marvel at Menengai when they see steam billowing into the air. Most of them express a desire to go and see what is happening down there.”
Soon their wishes will be granted. GDC is on an aggressive pursuit of geothermal tourism in its quest to expand its business portfolio. The company is seeking to partner with like-minded stakeholders to develop a comprehensive and inclusive geothermal tourism package in its areas of operation.
The constellation of GDC’s geothermal projects across the Rift Valley is exactly what the tourism sector needs.
“In future, geothermal tourism will become a key component of the tourism architecture in the country. That’s the future,” Mr. Maina says.
Beyond hiking and biking, GDC is set to establish a geothermal-heated spa and resort. Brine from geothermal processes can serve as a natural spa resource for leisure and recreation. GDC draws inspiration from Iceland, home to one of the world’s most famous geothermal spas, the Blue Lagoon.
Mr Busieney notes that once the project is up and running, the tourism side will create both direct and indirect jobs.
“We are all excited about this new possibility. Our goal is to give people an exciting experience. Let them have a feel of the magic that geothermal and its geological setting can offer,” he explains.
For people like Karanja, it could mean setting up another curio shop near the Menengai Geothermal Project. For community scouts like Peter Njoroge, it means getting busier.
“If well marketed, it means there will be a surge of visitors. That will require more scouts and tour guides. I’ll have to recruit and train more young people for that job. It’s quite exciting,” he enthuses.
To accelerate this dream, GDC has established a special internal team to explore the diverse tourism opportunities that Menengai can offer. The team, has designed a futuristic touristic site and experience like has never been seen in Kenya’s geothermal context before. Indeed, Menengai is rising as the new must-visit destination. Add it to your bucket list.
Download your copy of the Steam Magazine Issue 18 here: https://www.gdc.co.ke/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Steam-Magazine-Issue-18.pdf
