Kakamega Forest is situated in the town of Kakamega, southwestern Kenya. The forest is one of the few pieces of evidence left behind: a tropical rainforest across Central Africa, also known as the Guineo-Congolian Forest. It is a place of wonder, beauty, and nature blended perfectly. It is an adventure full of thrilling sights and adventures, something a thrill-seeker at heart will enjoy. A place full of unique fora and fauna, with trees that even date back 100 years, exists in this forest. It is rich in history, culture, nature, and beauty.
Flora And Fauna Of The Kakamega Forest
The Kakamega Forest is protected and conserved by the Kakamega Forest National Reserve. Their goal is to document all the species that inhabit the forest to keep track of them and protect them from perishing. If you explore this dense forest on foot, you are likely to come across various almost centuries-old trees, as well as different species of birds, butterflies, primates, colourful mushrooms, etc. There are mammals, too, like colobus monkeys, pottos, bush pigs, giant forest hedgehogs, etc. Many birds like the Black Billed Turaco, Blue Headed Bee Eater, Grey Parrots, and more can be seen.
If you enjoy observing and learning about insects, this forest has hundreds to observe and look at. The Goliath Beetles, Gastropods, spiders, Millipedes, pink and green flower mantis, and many colourful butterflies. One thing is sure: you will be blown away by the Kakamega Forest and all the unique species it is home to.
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Things To Do In Kakamega Forest
Kakamega forest has a unique presentation of avifauna with 16 species of bird found only in Kenya; it is a significant natural habitat for the conservation of avifauna as it currently provides a habitat for the highest number of forest-dependent bird species in Kenya.
1. Camping
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Kakamega Forest is one of the best places to set up camp with friends and family. If you enjoy spending time out in nature, then camping here is perfect for you. It is a beautiful place to fall asleep to the sounds of nature and wake up to the calls of birds early in the morning. A break from monotonous city life is necessary, and camping here can help people connect with nature and their surroundings.
People often camp in groups, and a bonfire is lit once they settle in. It is a fantastic time to bond with friends and family and meet new people. You can share food and stories and enjoy a hot, steaming cup of tea the following day.
Best Time To Visit: All Year Round
Timings: From 6 Am
2. Photography
Enjoying your time in Kakamega Forest is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and you do not want to miss any moment. You must bring your camera to capture every beautiful moment in this dense forest of Kenya. Nature has no order, which makes it even more spectacular. Snap dozens of pictures so you can always look back at them fondly.
Best Time To Visit: All Year Round
Timings: From 7 Am
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3. Hiking
Some of the best hiking trails are found in the Kakamega Forest. They range from 1km to 7km long trails. The view is beautiful, with the sunlight passing through the leaves, it leaves a beautiful sight for hikers to enjoy on their trail.
The Isiukhu Trail is one of the most popular and lengthy treks in Kakamega Forest. It connects Isiukhu Falls to Isecheno and the journey can take about half a day. This trail offers a fantastic view of the Nandi Escarpment from Buyangu Hill.
Best Time To Visit: All time
Timings: From 6 Am
4. Bird Watching
Image Credit: Francesco Veronesi for wikimedia commons
If you are an avid bird watcher, visiting Kakamega Forest should be on your bucket list. The forest is home to over 300 species of birds. Including the birds, the forest consists of primates like black-cheeked, white-nosed monkeys, sykes, etc.
Some of the birds that you must keep an eye out for are blue-headed bee-eaters, hornbills, grey parrots, black-billed turaco, and many more to watch in their natural habitat.
Best Time To Visit: During Monsoon.
Timings: From 5 Am.
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How To Reach Kakamega Forest
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By Air
All the main cities, such as Mumbai and Ahmedabad, have flights to Kenya. The closest airport to the Kakamega Forest is the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi. It is a long journey of 369 km, which will take approximately 7 to 8 hours.
By Road
If you wish to visit the forest by road, the best place to start your journey would be Nairobi. It takes about 7 hours. The best route is 260 miles northwest of Nairobi and 27 miles north of Kisumu. If you wish to take the shortest route, approximately 418 km, you must take the road passing through Nakuru and Kapsabet.
Further Read: National Parks In Kenya
Now that you know what Kakamega Forest offers as a tourist attraction, it is time to book your trip to Kenya and enjoy the wilderness with your family and friends. It is home to many species that can be found in this lovely forest, including pottos, colobus monkeys, Debrazzar monkeys, gigantic forest hedgehogs, and bush pigs. The Black Billed Turaco, Turner’s Eremomela, Grey Parrots, and Blue Headed Bee Eater are a few of the birds that can be spotted here. You may enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and bird viewing in the peace of this forgotten woodland.
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Cover Image Credit: Kakamega Forest for wikimedia commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Kakamega Forest
Are there any accommodations in Kakamega Forest?
Yes, the Kakamega Forest National Reserve provides accommodations equipped with all the facilities that guests would need and want. You can even camp inside which is extremely popular amongst the tourists.
Are there any nearby tourist attractions to visit?
Yes, there is the Crying Stone, Ilesi Pottery Centre, Malava Forest, Muliro Gardens, and many other places to visit once you are done visiting the Kakamega Forest. These are popular sites that offer the best experience you can ever have.
Is there an entry fee?
For residents or citizens its 300 Kenya Shillings for an adult and 250 Kenya Shillings for a child. For non-residents, the price for an adult is 25 US Dollars and 15 US Dollars for children.
When is the best time to visit Kakamega Forest?
The best time to visit would be between the months of December and February and June to July. There is less rain and more visibility to bird watch.
Can you visit Kakamega Forest any time of the year?
The Kakamega Forest can be visited throughout the year. Still, each season brings forth its own difficulties. For example, there is heavy rain from April to ajaune and November to mid-December. Therefore, it is advised to only visit during the dry months so you can thoroughly enjoy the experience.
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