What Are These Rocks Likely To Be?
Based on the photo you shared and geological context, these appear to be granite inselbergs or tor-like outcrops, formed by the slow erosion of surrounding softer materials and the elevated resistance of the granite underneath. These dome-shaped or rounded granite formations are classic examples of exfoliation weathering in ancient crystalline bedrock, leaving behind isolated rocky prominences. Inselbergs often consist of precambrian granites or gneisses .
Where They’re Commonly Found in Kenya
- Western Kenya’s Kakamega–Kisumu–Mumias region is known to host Kisian, Maragoli, and Mumias granite intrusions from the Archean era .
- Vihiga County, including the Maragoli Hills, is well-noted for its expansive granite terrain—“30 percent of Vihiga’s land is covered in rocks,” making it prime for granite exposure .
- A prominent local example includes the Mawe Tatu Hills near Likuyani, Kakamega—three significant granite outcrops forming an intriguing hiking destination .
- The Nandi Escarpment (bordering Kakamega Forest) also features substantial granite and volcanic rock formations rising dramatically from the plains .
Likely Match: Maragoli Hills or Nearby Granite Outcrops
Considering the texture, geology, and vegetation in your image, and knowing it’s in western Kenya, these are probably part of the Archean granite outcrops typical of the Maragoli–Kakamega–Mumias belt, such as those found in Maragoli Hills or Mawe Tatu Hills.
