Kakamega Rain Forest
Kakamega Forest is one of Western Kenyas best attractions. It is an island of about 2,400 square kilometres cut off from the Guineo-Congolan rainforest that used to stretch all the way west, clear across the African continent unbroken as far as the Atlantic. Due to the human population explosion and wide scale cultivation, the forests everywhere have receded.
Today it is a tiny patch of equatorial jungle with over 300 species of birds, 45% of all recorded butterflies, snakes and colobus monkeys amongst others. Many of these animals are found nowhere else in East Africa because similar habitats no longer exist.
Kakamega forest is fragmented. Two main areas can be visited. The first is the central Kakamega Forest Reserve, south east of Kakamega. The second part is the Kakamega Forest National Reserve northeast of the town. We'll deal with them separately.
Kakamega Forest Reserve
Upon arrival at the Kakamega Forest Reserve you are greeted by an official guide of Kakamega Environmental Education Programme (KEEP). Its best to take up the offer of a guide. Ask for Wilberforce, Moses or Ben who are all reliable, professional and knowledgeable. Their walks are very enjoyable and they are happy to tailor walks to your particular interest.
Apart from the birds, trees and medicinal plants explained by the guides, you can also ask them to show you the way to Lirhanda Hill. It is a lookout point offering splendid views over the whole expansion of the forest. Somewhere halfway is an old gold-mining shaft home to a large colony of bats. Dont forget your torch!! This is also as far as you can get by car.
How can I get there?
The easiest way of getting there is to follow the road signs to Rondo Retreat that will direct you off the Kakamega-Kisumu road to a rough muram road at Khayega market. Upon reaching the gate, instead of continuing towards Rondo Retreat you turn left through a small patch of tea fields. After 100 meters you turn left again.
Where can I stay?
At Kakamega Forest Reserve you will find the popular Forest Rest House and a couple of newly built bandas. The bandas and rest house are self catering, but the local residents are more than happy to provide you with a cook.
Kakamega Forest National Reserve
The significant difference between the forest here and further down south are the size of the trees. Many of them are colossal. The climate is drier and there is a greater variety of habitat. An easy excursion (1.5 km) from the forest station is to the rather feeble water fall Isiukhu Falls. Buyangu Hill offers spectacular views east across the forest to the Nandi escarpment.
How to get there
On the Kakamega-Webuye road there are two turning-offs. You need the first track signposted Kenya Wildlife Service Kisere Nature Reserve 6km. The forest station is about 3 km along the way where you can pick up a guide attached to the Kakamega Biodiversity Tour Conservations Operators. A number of driveable and walkable tracks through the forest begin just beyond the forest station. The main trail is well signposted. Though remote, it is not a place youre likely to get lost in.
Where can I stay?
You can stay at the KWS-run Udos Bandas and Campsite. There is a stream of fresh water but no food.
What else is there to see nearby?
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