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Visit Watamu - Marafa Depression, ,Nyari Hells Kitchen
Northwest of Malindi is the spectacular Marafa Depression, locally known as Nyari 
and popularly known as Hell's Kitchen. An extensive series of sandstone gorges and sheer gullies which is constantly changing as rains and winds cut new channels to expose many layers of coloured sandstone A visit there is a must but go early morning as by the afternoon the heat can be unbearable.
A Trip to Hells Kitchen by Helie Franklin
Our journey started with our driver from the hotel collecting us from the front of the hotel As always, we all went off with a good supply of snacks and cool drinks – just in case. Our driver took us up to through the bustling town of Malindi and headed north along the newly laid road.
Before long, we left the main road to continue our journey through the many isolated villages, which appear, at regular intervals along the dusty back roads. It is an experience in itself to see these villages and the happy, smiling people along the way.
The most amazing thing is that most villages have a variety of shops, a school, a bus service to the town (it may take you around 2 hours to get there), and all are bustling lively communities. We saw the local lads heading off to play their football match – all bare foot!
On arriving at Hells Kitchen, someone ran out to open the large gates at the entrance. We later found out that these gates are there to keep the wildlife out and ensure the safety of the plants which form the basis of their ‘social enterprise.’
Tom, our guide for our visit, warmly welcomed us. He and a group of locals were ready and waiting for any visitors.
To start with, we were taken to the edge of the ‘quarry’ to take in the spectacular view. From there, we ventured down into the depths of Hells Kitchen, stopping intermittently to take pictures.
Tom gave us information about the spectacular views as we went along. Also, he was on hand to ensure we managed to tackle the tricky and steep path It is also extremely hot in the depths of the gorge – like a kitchen or cauldron.
It is worth noting that good walking shoes, trousers and sensible clothing will enhance your visit to this area. If you have mobility problems, it is best viewing from the top of the gorge.
Tom explained that the floral and fauna hold many medicinal qualities and trainee doctors have to go into the quarry to find healing treatments for diseases in the 40+ plants there before they can fully qualify.
The area is sacred and services are held regularly in the gorge. Many village descendants come back here for their funeral services when it is their time. The families will also travel there for the service and celebrations following. These can go on for many days.
From the very top of the gorge, you can get a spectacular view across the landscape and Tsavo safari park can be seen on the horizon.
We joined the other villagers in the shade and shared our snacks with them. Tom then showed us the soaps and plants they make up to bring more revenue into the area. You can also purchase books and pencils from Tom for the school children. Tom’s wife is the local schoolteacher.
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video of Hells Kitchen Kenya