Why Visit? Kariandusi Prehistoric site is one of the earliest Lower Paleolithic sites discovered in East Africa and offers crucial insights into early human tool-making and settlement patterns. Discovered in 1928 by Dr. Louis Leakey, the site has remained a cornerstone of prehistoric research and is associated with the Acheulian hand-axe culture.
See original and replica tools that were crafted nearly a million years ago.
Walk along designated trails to the excavated riverbed where ancient tools were uncovered.
Natural formations within the area with geological and anthropological significance
A colonial-era church structure located within the site.
The site was discovered in 1928 by Dr. Louis Leakey during his first East African Archaeological Expedition. It has since been revisited by several research teams, with the most recent major excavation led by J.A.J. Gowlett and R.G. Crompton in 1974. Kariandusi provides invaluable insights into the life and technologies of Homo erectus, who inhabited the area during the Early Stone Age.
Highlights:
Considered a potential Acheulian handaxe “factory site”
Over 250 handaxes are held at Cambridge University alone
Made primarily of obsidian and trachyte
Opening Hours: Daily, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (including public holidays and weekends)
Admission: Payments through the eCitizen platform (No cash accepted onsite)
Contact for Bookings:
Curator: Wyne Kemei
Phone: +254 720 390 697
Kariandusi is overseen by the National Museums of Kenya and is affiliated with the Directorate of National Repository & Research. The site continues to support research in paleoanthropology, lithic analysis, and Early Stone Age environments. It remains an active learning and field training site for local and international scholars.
Factory Theory: Due to the abundance of handaxes, Kariandusi was once believed to be a manufacturing hub. However, recent evidence suggests the tools may have been deposited by receding waters from nearby Lake Elementaita.
Edge-Wear: Many tools show minimal wear, sparking debate on their use. One theory suggests tools may have served symbolic or social functions.
Handedness: A study by Laura Phillipson revealed 11% of examined tools were likely designed for left-handed use, suggesting early emergence of modern handedness traits.
School Trips & Guided Tours: Tailored learning experiences for students and researchers.
Lectures & Field Seminars: Scheduled workshops and forums in archaeology and history.
Public Demonstrations: Occasionally hosts stone tool-making demonstrations and paleoanthropology talks.
Picnic Sites: Shaded outdoor eating areas with benches and signage
Camp Site: Available by prior arrangement; ideal for school groups and researchers
Information Panels: Bilingual exhibits in English and Kiswahili
Toilets & Handwashing Stations: Located near the museum entrance
Free Parking: On-site secure parking
Best Time to Visit: Dry season (June to October) for clear trails and birdwatching
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes recommended
Weather: Bring sun protection and water
Photography: Allowed; please seek permission for drone usage
Combine Visits: Pair with nearby attractions like Lake Elementaita, Lake Nakuru National Park, or the Hyrax Hill Museum
Curator: Wyne Kemei
Phone: +254 720 390 697
Step into the footsteps of early man at Kariandusi—where discovery, science, and prehistory come alive amidst the silent stones of the Rift Valley.
The National Museums of Kenya (NMK), established under the Museums and Heritage Act (2006), is a multi-disciplinary institution dedicated to collecting, preserving, researching, and presenting Kenya’s cultural and natural heritage.
The National Museums of Kenya (NMK), established under the Museums and Heritage Act (2006), is a multi-disciplinary institution dedicated to collecting, preserving, researching, and presenting Kenya’s cultural and natural heritage.
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