Kakamega Forest National Reserve
Nyanza Region
Kakamega Forest National Reserve is Kenya's last remnant of the ancient Guineo-Congolian rainforest, located in the Nyanza region near the Uganda border. This tropical rainforest spans approximately 238 square kilometers, with about half remaining as indigenous forest. The terrain is undulating, situated mostly between 1500 and 1600 meters elevation, and forms part of the watershed for the Isiukhu and Yala rivers. The forest is renowned for its rich biodiversity, hosting over 380 plant species including rare hardwoods like Elgon teak and red stinkwood, and 367 bird species such as the Great blue turaco and black-and-white-casqued hornbill. Mammals like bush pigs, duikers, various primates, and occasional leopards inhabit the forest. The climate is wet year-round with heavy rains in April-May and August-September, supporting lush vegetation. The forest features grassy glades whose origins may be linked to past human activity or large mammal movements. Despite pressures from local resource use and cattle grazing, Kakamega Forest remains a vital conservation area and a fascinating destination for nature lovers and bird watchers.
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Tip: The best time to visit Kakamega Forest is during the drier months of January and February to enjoy easier trekking and wildlife spotting. Visitors should consider guided tours to fully appreciate the forest's biodiversity and to support conservation efforts. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during peak seasons. Modest discounts may be available for students or groups. Visitors should prepare for wet conditions and bring suitable gear for rainforest trekking.
Interesting facts
- •Kakamega Forest is Kenya's only tropical rainforest and the last remnant of the ancient Guineo-Congolian rainforest in the country.
- •The forest contains about 60 species of orchids, with 9 species found only in Kakamega.
- •367 bird species have been recorded, including at least 9 species not found anywhere else.
- •Large mammals such as elephants once roamed the forest but are now locally extinct.
- •The forest includes grassy glades whose origins may be linked to historical cattle grazing or movements of large mammals like buffalo and elephants.
History
Kakamega Forest Reserve was officially designated in 1933 as a protected area to conserve its unique tropical rainforest ecosystem.
In 1967, the Isecheno and Yala nature reserves were established within the forest.
The northern portion was designated as Kakamega National Reserve in 1985, incorporating the Kisere Forest Reserve.
Historically, the forest represents the last remnant of the Guineo-Congolian rainforest that once covered much of central Africa.
Over the decades, human pressures such as resource extraction and cattle grazing have impacted the forest, but conservation projects like the German-funded BIOTA East (2001–2010) have worked to inventory biodiversity and promote sustainable use.
Place Guide
Great Blue Turaco Spotting
One of the forest's most iconic bird species, the Great blue turaco is a vibrant and elusive bird best seen in the dense canopy. Birdwatching tours often focus on locating this species.
Isecheno Nature Trail
A well-maintained trail through primary and secondary forest areas, offering opportunities to see a variety of birds, primates, and unique plant species including rare orchids.
Yala River Watershed
The forest is part of the watershed for the Isiukhu and Yala rivers, which originate on the Nandi Escarpment and flow westward through the forest into Lake Victoria.
Contact
Phone: 0726 951764
