"A Haven for Birds & Butterflies"
Kakamega Forest National Reserve Tourism
Kakamega Forest National Reserve, located northwest of Nairobi, is a unique slice of the ancient Guineo-Congolian rainforest, covering about 240 square kilometres. It stands out as Kenya's only remaining tropical rainforest and a critical ecological hotspot for conserving bird and plant life. There are 367 bird species, including around 16 species unique to the forest in the country including the Great Blue Turaco and the Grey Parrot.
The forest is also home to over 400 butterfly species and a variety of primates, such as the blue monkey and the black-and-white colobus monkey. Boasting diverse plant life, including 60 types of orchids among 380 recorded plant species, Kakamega Forest Reserve is a special natural haven.
With well-kept trails, it offers an easy and eco-friendly way for visitors to explore and enjoy the tropical forest while actively contributing to its preservation. These hiking trails are used for various activities like walking, camping, hiking, primate and bird watching, and game watching.
Various mammals, including bush pigs, colobus monkeys, and pottos, call this forest home. Bird enthusiasts can spot captivating species like the Blue-Headed Bee Eater and Black-Billed Turaco. There are also viewpoints and small waterfalls for nature enthusiasts to discover. The Isiukhu Falls, a stunning waterfall within the forest, is a must-see attraction, offering a serene spot for relaxation and photography.
The reserve also serves as an important site for research and conservation efforts. Organizations and local communities work together to preserve this unique ecosystem, promoting sustainable tourism and environmental education. Accommodations within and near the reserve, ranging from campsites to eco-lodges, ensure that visitors can fully immerse themselves in the forest experience.
Entry Fees to Kakamega Forest Reserve
Citizen: Adult – KSH 300, Child – KSH 125Resident: Adult – KSH 300, Child – KSH 125
Non-Resident: Adult – USD 22, Child – USD 13
Entrance Gates to Kakamega Forest Reserve
Kakamega Forest National Reserve has two entrance gates, each leading to different parts of the reserve.- KWS Gate: This gate is located in Buyangu and takes you to the northern section, known for its well-kept trails and diverse birdlife. The KWS gate is conveniently located 600 meters from the A1 road north of Kakamega, making it easily accessible by car.
- Kenya Forestry Service Gate: This gate is located in Isecheno and provides access to the southern part, offering varied hiking trails and wildlife experiences.
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Things to do in Kakamega Forest National Reserve
1. Hiking Trails
Explore Kakamega Forest National Reserve through a range of hiking trails suitable for all fitness levels. From easy nature walks to more challenging hikes, these well-kept paths offer opportunities t (Read More)o encounter colobus and Debrazzar monkeys while enjoying scenic views. The best times for hiking are mornings and late afternoons. Trails vary in duration, from 2-3 hours for nature walks to longer durations for more challenging hikes.
2. Birdwatching
Kakamega Forest National Reserve is home to over 300 species. Notable birds include the Great Blue Turaco and the Black-and-White-Casqued Hornbill. Early mornings are ideal for birdwatching. Don't for (Read More)get binoculars and a bird guidebook for an enjoyable birdwatching experience in this tropical forest.
3. Primate Watching
Kakamega Forest National Reserve is known for its diverse primate population. The forest is home to Black and White Colobus, De Brazza Monkeys, Blue Monkeys, Olive Baboons, Red Tailed Monkeys and othe (Read More)r primates. Morning and late afternoon are optimal times for primate watching. A knowledgeable guide and binoculars can enhance your experience.
4. Nature Trails
Explore Kakamega Forest National Reserve through its inviting nature trails, perfect for forest walks, camping, rock climbing, and village strolls. These well-kept paths showcase the beauty of the anc (Read More)ient Guineo-Congolian rainforest, offering a chance to connect with its diverse flora and fauna. Guided walks are available.
5. Weeping Stone
The intriguing Weeping Stone in Kakamega Forest National Reserve is an impressive 8-meter-high rock, with a smaller balanced rock on top, continuously releasing a trickle of water, creating a captivat (Read More)ing sight throughout the year. The Weeping Stone's unique geological features make it a must-see attraction, seamlessly blending nature and cultural significance.
6. Butterfly Wonderland
Kakamega Forest National Reserve is home to over 400 captivating butterfly species. Some of these butterflies are exclusive to this forest and West Africa.
7. Yala Gold Rush Heritage
The Yala River area is steeped in history as a former gold rush site. You can discover remnants of the past with deep pits used by gold prospectors. Locals practice the age-old tradition of panning fo (Read More)r gold along the river banks, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's captivating history.
8. Isiukhu Falls
Isiukhu Falls is a beautiful waterfall in the Kakamega Forest, Kenya. Walk along easy trails to reach it, enjoying the green surroundings. The falls are best in the morning when the sunlight hits them (Read More) just right. It's a good spot for a peaceful time in nature.
9. Buyangu Hill
Buyangu Hill is a hill with great views of Kakamega Forest. You can get there by a moderate hike from Kakamega town. It's nice to go early morning or late afternoon. The hill is good for people who li (Read More)ke hiking and nature.
10. Cultural Evening with the Luya Tribe
Experience Luya Tribe culture in Kakamega town or nearby villages. Local community centres organize these events. They show Luya traditions, dances, and stories. It's in the evening, and you can join (Read More)in the dances and try local food.
11. Mama Mutere
Named by the locals, Mama Mutere is the biggest and oldest tree in Kakamega, standing at an impressive 40 meters (131 feet) and boasting an age of around 250 years. Beyond its remarkable size and age, (Read More) the tree holds cultural significance as its bark has been utilized in traditional medicine to address stomach and various other ailments.
Must Know Before You Travel to Kakamega Forest National Reserve
- Opening Hours: Gates are open year-round from 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM.
- On-Foot Exploration: For the best experience, explore Kakamega Forest on foot.
- Birdwatching Hours: Morning (06:30 AM - 08:30 AM) and evening (04:30 PM - 06:30 PM) are the times for birdwatching.
- Entry Fee: Single entry fee is valid for 24 hours.
- Guided Trails: Mandatory to have a guide (cost: KSH 1000) for informed trails and to avoid getting lost in the forest.
- Payment Method: Cash not accepted; bring M-Pesa for entry.
- Footwear and Rain Gear: Wear high-heeled hiking boots or buy Wellington boots. Raincoats are advisable for the rainforest.
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Wildlife in Kakamega Forest National Reserve
- Tree Species: Over 380 tree species contribute to the forest's rich flora.
- Birds: The reserve boasts a diverse avian population, with 330 bird species, including the Blue Headed Bee Eater, Black Billed Turaco, Turner's Eremomela, and Grey Parrots.
- Snakes: Kakamega Forest is home to 27 snake species, adding to its biodiversity.
- Mammals: Various mammal species thrive in the lush ecosystem, such as bush pigs, colobus monkeys, De Brazza monkeys, pottos, duikers, and more.
- Primates: The forest hosts seven primate species, including easily sighted black-and-white colobus, red-tailed, and blue monkeys, as well as the rare de Brazza’s monkey.
- Botanical Treasures: Kakamega Forest is renowned for its botanical richness, featuring 380 plant species, including 60 orchid species, with nine exclusive to the forest.
- Insects: The insect world flourishes with 489 butterfly species, Goliath beetles, pink and green flower mantises, and other fascinating insects.
- Diverse Insect Groups: Various insect groups, including ants, Lepidopterans, Orthopterans, and beetles, contribute to the forest's remarkable insect life.
- Other Inhabitants: Gastropods, millipedes, and spiders further enhance the forest's ecological tapestry.
Best Time to Visit Kakamega Forest National Reserve
How to Reach Kakamega Forest National Reserve
How to Reach Overview
Kakamega Forest Reserve can be reached easily by using Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport as your entry to the country. From Nairobi, you can take a direct flight to Kakamega or choose to fly to Kisumu or Eldoret and then proceed to Kakamega by road, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours. For those preferring a scenic road trip from Nairobi, expect approximately 7 hours of travel. Buses from Nairobi to Kakamega town are also available for alternative transportation.
How to reach Kakamega Forest National Reserve by flight
For air travel, use Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), located 15 km southeast of Nairobi, as your entry point. Scheduled flights to Kakamega are available from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Alternatively, you can fly to Kisumu or Eldoret and then proceed to Kakamega by road. The journey by road usually takes approximately 1.5 -2 hours.
Charter flights between parks are usually organized by tour operators. There are daily flights from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) to Kisumu International Airport (KIS). Some Nairobi-to-Kisumu flights also depart from Wilson Airport (WIL). The flight from Nairobi to Kisumu is about 1 hour and costs around $90 for a round trip.
Various carriers, such as AirKenya, Jambo Jet, Kenya Airways, and Safarilink, offer domestic flights to Kisumu from different airports, connecting Nairobi, Mombasa, Eldoret, and other destinations.
Charter flights between parks are usually organized by tour operators. There are daily flights from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) to Kisumu International Airport (KIS). Some Nairobi-to-Kisumu flights also depart from Wilson Airport (WIL). The flight from Nairobi to Kisumu is about 1 hour and costs around $90 for a round trip.
Various carriers, such as AirKenya, Jambo Jet, Kenya Airways, and Safarilink, offer domestic flights to Kisumu from different airports, connecting Nairobi, Mombasa, Eldoret, and other destinations.
How to reach Kakamega Forest National Reserve by road
The journey from Nairobi typically takes around 7 hours.
To reach the Kakamega Forest, take the road, situated 260 miles northwest of Nairobi and 27 miles north of Kisumu. The shortest route from Nairobi spans 418 km, passing through Nakuru and Kapsabet. Follow the A104 road to Timboroa, continue for 4 km, then turn left onto the C36 road to Kapsabet. Proceed on the C39 road until it intersects with the Kisumu–Kakamega road. From Kakamega town, the forest station is approximately 18 km away.
To reach the Kakamega Forest, take the road, situated 260 miles northwest of Nairobi and 27 miles north of Kisumu. The shortest route from Nairobi spans 418 km, passing through Nakuru and Kapsabet. Follow the A104 road to Timboroa, continue for 4 km, then turn left onto the C36 road to Kapsabet. Proceed on the C39 road until it intersects with the Kisumu–Kakamega road. From Kakamega town, the forest station is approximately 18 km away.
How to reach Kakamega Forest National Reserve by bus
To reach Kakamega Forest by public transport, take a bus or matatu from Nairobi to Kakamega town, which usually takes around 6-7 hours. From Kakamega town, you can hire a taxi or take a local matatu to get to Kakamega Forest, approximately 18 km away. The travel time and cost for local transport may vary based on availability and specific conditions.
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