Kakamega Forest

Kakamega Forest

Kakamega Forest is Kenya’s last remaining section of the ancient Guineo-Congolian rainforest, which once stretched across much of Central Africa. The Buyangu area in the northern part of the forest is protected by the Kenya Wildlife Service and is known for its ancient trees, many of which are over 100 years old. The road from Kisumu to Kakamega crosses the scenic Nandi Hills and the beautiful Yala River, which flows through and helps sustain the forest.

Big variety of wildlife

Kakamega Forest is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including monkeys, pangolins, genets, giant forest squirrels, bushpigs, fruit bats, and around 400 bird species. The forest also supports numerous reptiles, insects, and butterflies. Together, these animals play an important role in maintaining the ecosystem by pollinating flowers and dispersing seeds throughout the forest.

About 10,000 years ago when the climate became drier the area of the rainforest shrank to what it was about 250 years ago. With time, much of the indigenous forest has been cut down as people needed the land for farming and Kakamega forest has become an exotic isolated relic of this vast African equatorial jungle, making it a unique habitat in Kenya. To the local Luhya people, Kakamega forest has not only been a generous supplier of firewood and building materials for centuries, medicinal plants are being used to heal all kinds of illnesses.

Due to commercial exploitation and increased population in the area the future of the forest was uncertain untill two nature reserves (Yala and Isecheno) in 1967 were being created and in 1985 two more reserves in the northern part of the forest (Buyangu and Kisere) were being created, somehow reducing the pressure on the forests natural resources.

Slowly Kakamega forest has become famous around the world for being home to several hundred species of birds, snakes, lizards, insects, monkeys and other mammals. A choice of walking trails, view points and guided tours enable you to experience some of this fascinating, beautiful and unique forest first hand. Especially in the northern part of the forest you will find virgin forest, intersected only by gurgling streams.

In the forest there are about 385 species of plants, including Elgon teak, red and white stink woods, varieties of Croton, Aniageria Altisima and several types of orchids. The forest is host to a number of lizards, amphibians and reptiles and true to the forests continental origins, the snakes of Kakamega are mainly from West Africa, the Forest Cobra, Jameson’s Mamba, Bush Viper, Gaboon Viper and Rhinoceros Viper.

There is a wide variety of unique birdlife to be observed in the park which has about 350 species of birds, including snake-eating birds, Black and White Casqued Hornbills, Turacos, Pygmy Kingfisher, Jameson’s Wattle-eye, Yellow-crested Woodpecker, Red-breasted Owlet, Martial Eagle, Crowned Eagle, Bateleur and many more.

It is probable, that at least forty five of the species on the Kenya list of birds are to be found only in the Kakamega and also there are many other endemic species in Kakamega forest. It is the last refuge in Kenya of the Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus erithacus) which is present in very low numbers and is close to being extirpated (locally extinct). In ancient times there were elephants roaming the forest and still the Bais (an open area surrounded by forest) evidences this. When walking through the forest you will often hear the Black and White Casqued Hornbills loud cry echoing between the more than a hundred years old trees, long before you get to see the bird itself.

Mammals and Primates

Kakamega Forest also supports a wide variety of wildlife, including the giant forest squirrel, scaly-tailed flying squirrel, hammer-headed fruit bat, bushpig, grey duiker, civet, suni, and clawless otter. Nocturnal animals such as the ground pangolin, potto, hedgehog, aardvark, and brush-tailed porcupine can also be found here. Although leopards are extremely rare, the forest is well known for its primates, including the black-and-white colobus, De Brazza’s monkey, blue monkey, Sykes’ monkey, red-tailed monkey, and olive baboon.

Climate and Weather

This part of Kenya receives some of the country’s highest rainfall, averaging around 2,000 mm each year. Most of the rain falls between April and November, while December to March is generally the dry season. Rain usually falls in the afternoon or early evening and is often accompanied by heavy thunderstorms.

Temperature

Temperatures remain fairly consistent throughout the year, with average daytime highs of around 27°C and nighttime lows of about 15°C. Days can feel warm and humid, so light clothing is recommended. Because trails can become muddy after rain, sturdy footwear is also advisable. Evenings and early mornings can be surprisingly cool, making a fleece or light jacket a useful addition to your luggage.

Visiting Kakamega Forest

The best time to visit Kakamega Forest is during the rainy season (April to July) when the forest is lush and wildflowers are in bloom. However, the forest offers rewarding experiences throughout the year. Visitors can stay in guesthouses, self-catering bandas, campsites, or at the charming Rondo Retreat, while additional hotels are available in Kakamega Town.

Guided Forest Walks

Exploring Kakamega Forest with a local guide can greatly enhance your visit. If you prefer to explore independently, stay on the marked trails and carry a map or compass to avoid getting lost. But experienced guides share fascinating information about the forest’s plants, wildlife, and birds while helping visitors navigate the trails safely. Supporting local guides also benefits nearby communities and promotes sustainable tourism. At Africa-Expert we can supply you with the best guides.

Attractions Near Kakamega Forest

Near Kakamega Forest, the mysterious Crying Stone of Ilesi (Ikhonga Murwi) is a popular attraction. A few hours north of Kakamega lies Mount Elgon (4,321 m), an extinct volcano with the largest intact volcanic crater in East Africa. Mount Elgon National Park, which covers most areas above 2,400 metres, is home to elephants, buffalo, and the famous Kitum Cave, where elephants are known to visit in search of natural salt.

National Parks and Wildlife

Nearby, Saiwa Swamp National Park is Kenya’s smallest national park and was established to protect the rare Sitatunga antelope. The park is also home to the De Brazza’s monkey and offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. Lake Victoria is easily reached from Kisumu or Homa Bay, where visitors can see hippos and a wide variety of bird species. Ndere Island National Park, about a two-hour boat ride from Kisumu, is known for its crocodiles and wildlife, while Ruma National Park, located near Homa Bay, is the only place in Kenya where you can see the rare Roan antelope.