Eastern Province, Administrative province in eastern Kenya
Eastern Province stretches from the Mount Kenya foothills to semi-arid plains across multiple counties with varied landscapes. The region features different elevations that range from thick forests to open grasslands shaped by these natural variations.
The area was established as an administrative province during colonial times and maintained this structure until 2010. A new constitution then replaced provinces with a decentralized system of county governments.
The region is home to multiple ethnic groups including the Embu, Meru, and Kamba peoples, each maintaining their traditional farming practices and social structures. These communities shape the everyday life and local customs visible in villages and towns throughout the area.
The region is more accessible during rainy seasons, as many roads become dusty and difficult to travel in dry months. It makes sense to use local guides to better understand the different elevation zones and their features.
Mount Kenya National Park within the region contains glaciers at the equator, supporting multiple distinct ecosystems from rainforest to alpine vegetation. This rare combination of tropical and mountainous habitats at this latitude is remarkable worldwide.
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