Kakamega Forest National Reserve, located in western Kenya is a unique and vital ecosystem that stands out as the only remaining tropical rainforest in the country. It was established in 1933 and a national reserve was added later in 1985. This lush forest spans approximately 240 square kilometers and is located near the town of Kakamega. It is a crucial habitat for a variety of plants and animal species, making it an essential site for conservation efforts. The area is surrounded by a rich cultural landscape, with local communities living in harmony with nature, further enhancing its charm.
The forest is home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna. The reserve is home to some of Africa’s greatest hard and soft woods such as Elgon teak, red stinkwood, white stinkwood, and several varieties of croton. There are 380 recorded species of plants. This includes 60 species of ferns, 150 species of trees and shrubs, and 170 species of flowering plants including 60 species of orchids with 9 species found only in this forest. Mammals like blue monkeys, redtail monkeys, De Brazza’s monkeys, baboons, potto and the occasional vervet monkeys can also be spotted here, contributing to the forest’s rich biodiversity.
Weather and Climate of Kakamega Forest
Kakamega Forest National Reserve has a tropical high-rainfall climate. Its closeness to the equator means that temperatures are steady throughout the year. Afternoons average around 26 degrees Celsius (79 degrees Fahrenheit), while nights average around 14 degrees Celsius (57-degree Fahrenheit). It rains all year, with peaks in April and May.
Tourist attractions found in Kakamega Forest National Reserve
Wildlife
Kakamega Forest National Reserve is home to a fascinating mix of mammals. Among them, you can find the bush pig, duikers, bushbuck African clawless otter, mongoose, giant African water shrew, squirrels, tree pangolin, porcupine bats, and a variety of primates including the blue monkeys, redtail monkeys, De Brazza’s monkeys, baboon, potto and the occasional vervet monkeys.
Kakamega Forest National Reserve is also home to a variety of wildlife including lots of Amphibians and reptiles. It’s a rich ecosystem where you can find many different Insects and some are quite spectacular, such as Goliath beetles, and pink and green flower mantis. The forest is also home to over 489 species of butterflies. several groups of insects are particularly abundant here, including a wide range of moths and butterflies, grasshoppers, and beetles. You can also spot snails, millipedes, and various types of spiders. the diversity of life in Kakamega forest makes it a fascinating place to explore.
Birdlife of Kakamega Forest National Reserve
Kakamega Forest National Reserve is a remarkable place, especially if you love birds. It’s home to an incredible variety of feathered creatures, with a whopping 367 different bird species spotted there. Among them, you can find unique birds like the striking Great Blue Turaco from West Africa and the colorful Black-and-White Casqued Hornbill. What’s really special is that there are at least nine bird species that you can only see in Kakamega Forest.
Other bird species spotted here include the African blue flycatcher, African broadbill, African emerald cuckoo, African goshawk, banded prinia, black cuckoo, black-billed turaco, black-billed weaver, brown-crowned waxbill, brown illadopsis, brown-capped weaver, brown-throated wattle-eye, birds, buff-throated Apalis, dusky tit, great blue turaco, crowned eagle, Cassin’s honey, eastern olive sunbirds, great blue turaco, joyful greenbul, grey-breasted barbet, hairy-breasted barbet, purple-throated cuckoo-shrike and white-breasted negrofinch among others.
Flora of Kakamega Forest National Reserve
Kakamega Forest National Reserve is a remarkable place that boasts over 1000 different plant species. Her you can find over 60 species of ferns, 150 species of trees and shrubs, and 170 species of flowering plants including 60 species of orchids with 9 species found only in this forest. The forest is also home to vibrant and unique mushrooms that add pops of color to the landscape. This rich biodiversity makes Kakamega a fascinating destination for nature lovers and anyone interested in exploring the wonders of plant life.
Tourist activities to do at Kakamega Forest National Reserve
Butterfly watching
The Kakamega National Park is home to over 4800 species of colored butterflies and an additional 6000 species of the less colored butterflies, and moths. Common types of butterflies are the; Forest Mother of Pearl, Mocker Swallow-tail, Regal Swallow-tail, Black-tipped Diadem
Birdwatching tours
Kakamega Forest National Reserve is a fantastic spot in Kenya for anyone interested in birdwatching. This lush forest is home to more than 390 species of birds, making it a true paradise for bird lovers. While exploring the area, you might get lucky and spot some unique and striking birds such as black-billed turaco, grey parrot, blue-headed bee-eater African blue flycatcher, African broadbill, African emerald cuckoo, African goshawk, banded prinia, black cuckoo, black-billed turaco, black-billed weaver, brown-crowned waxbill, brown illadopsis, brown-capped weaver, brown-throated wattle-eye, birds, buff-throated Apalis, dusky tit, great blue turaco, crowned eagle, Cassin’s honey, eastern olive sunbirds, great blue turaco, joyful greenbul. Each visit to Kakamega Forest offers a new adventure in birdwatching, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.
Wildlife sightings.
Wildlife sightings in Kakamega Forest National Reserve are an exciting experience that adds a unique touch to your trip to Kenya. While this forest isn’t primarily famous for its wildlife, it’s actually a hidden gem filled with a variety of intriguing animals. During your wildlife sighting tours, you might spot animals like bush pigs, bushbucks, African clawless otters, and even the giant African water shrew. The forest is also home to different types of monkeys, such as blue monkeys, De Brazza’s monkeys, and redtail monkeys, all going about their daily lives in the wild. Enjoy the chance to see these remarkable creatures in their natural habitat.
Cultural Visit to the Luya Tribe
The cultural visit to the Luya Tribe visit is a great opportunity to meet and learn about these remarkable indigenous people. During the visit here, you’ll get to enjoy their vibrant dance performances, which are full of energy and rhythm, as well as hear their traditional stories and legends that have been passed down through generations. It’s a wonderful chance to immerse yourself in their rich culture and gain a deeper understanding of their way of life.
Camping
If you love spending time in nature, Kakamega National Park is the perfect spot for your next camping trip. This park offers a lovely escape into the heart of a beautiful rainforest, filled with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. It’s considered one of the best camping locations in the country.
Imagine yourself surrounded by peaceful scenery, enjoying the cool air as you settle in for the night. There’s something magical about gathering around a campfire under the stars, sharing stories and laughter with friends or family. As night falls, the sounds of the forest become your backdrop.
When morning arrives, you’ll be greeted by the delightful songs of birds waking up around you. Their cheerful chirps fill the air, and it’s fun to try to identify which bird is singing its morning tune. Just when you think you might still be dreaming, you’ll realize that a warm cup of tea is ready for you right outside your tent, setting the perfect tone for the day ahead. Camping at Kakamega is truly an unforgettable experience that connects you with nature and refreshes your spirit.
Best time to visit Kakamega Forest National Reserve
Kakamega Forest National Reserve can be visited year-round. There is quite heavy rain throughout the year, but December to February are the driest months. June to August is an excellent time for bird watching, as many birds breed and display after the rains of April and May. August and September are the best months for butterflies. Migrant birds are present from November to April.
Where to stay at Kakamega Forest National Reserve
When visiting Kakamega Forest National Reserve, you have several options for where to stay, depending on your preferences and budget. You can choose from cozy self-catering chalets and lodges that offer a more comfortable experience, or if you’re looking for something more adventurous, there are also rustic camping sites available. Some of the accommodation options here include Isecheno KEEP bandas, Senel Guest House, Isukuti Guest House, Golf Hotel Kakamega, and others.
How to get into Kakamega Forest National Reserve
By road.
If you’re planning a trip from Nairobi to Kakamega Forest Reserve, it will take you about six hours by car. Once you reach Kakamega town, it’s just an 18-kilometer drive to the forest station in the Kakamega rainforest.
You can easily get to Kakamega Town from Kisumu by taking a bus or matatu (a shared minibus). To explore the forest, you’ll need your own vehicle or you can join a safari tour.
The reserve is best explored on foot. The forest has many clearly marked walking trails. There are excellent and fully qualified local guides are available for walking.
By Flight
Most travelers coming from Europe or North America to Kenya usually land in Nairobi, since it’s the main airport and there are many flight options available. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) is about 15 kilometers (9 miles) southeast of the city. The second major international airport in Kenya is Moi International Airport (MBA), which is located around 9 kilometers (6 miles) west of Mombasa.
Charter flights between parks are typically arranged for you by your travel company, like Enclose Africa Safaris. You can catch daily flights from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) to Kisumu International Airport (KIS). There are multiple local airlines you can use to book your domestic flights to Kisumu.
You can arrange a pick-up, rent a car, or get a taxi at Kisumu International Airport (KIS), which is about an hour’s drive from Kakamega Forest Reserve.
