Kakamega Forest Guide: Kenya's Tropical Rainforest, Primates and Birds

Most Kenyan itineraries focus on open plains, so Kakamega comes as a surprise. It is a tall, humid forest that belongs to the same family of habitats as the rainforests of western Uganda and the Congo basin, with tree species and animals found nowhere else in Kenya.

This guide explains what the forest is, what wildlife and nature to expect, the activities available, when to go, how to get there, where to stay and how to link it with other East African destinations. If you are comparing forests, the Kibale Forest guide is a useful companion.

This guide is part of our Uganda districts and towns guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

What Kakamega Forest Is

Kakamega is a surviving fragment of the Guineo-Congolian rainforest that once stretched across equatorial Africa, and it is Kenya's only significant example of that habitat. The forest includes tall canopy trees, dense understorey, clearings and streams, and it is protected as a national reserve and national park, with areas managed by different authorities. Because many forest species here are found in Kenya nowhere else, the forest has great value to scientists and birders. The air is humid and rain can fall in any season, which keeps the forest green.

Primates and Mammals

The forest is home to several monkey species, including red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys and black-and-white colobus, which often announce themselves with crashing branches and deep calls. Smaller creatures such as galagos and pottos emerge after dark, and night walks led by trained guides are a highlight. Other mammals include bush pigs, giant forest squirrels and small antelope such as duikers, though most are shy. For wider reading on forest primates, see the Uganda primates and monkeys guide and colobus species profile.

Birds and Butterflies

Kakamega is among Kenya's finest birding locations. Species typical of western rainforest include great blue turacos, Ross's turacos, hornbills, trogons, barbets, bulbuls, greenbuls and the African grey parrot, along with specialities that attract birders from far away. The forest also hosts a huge variety of butterflies and moths, often congregating on forest paths and clearings on sunny mornings. Read our profiles of the turacos and hornbills before you go.

Activities in the Forest

The classic activity is a guided forest walk at dawn, with a local guide who knows where the monkeys and birds are. Longer walks lead to hills for views over the canopy, and quieter trails suit photographers. Night walks reveal frogs, chameleons and nocturnal mammals. Local community groups offer visits to nearby villages and traditional healers, and the Crying Stone of Ilesi near Kakamega town is a popular nearby landmark. A low-key pace and patience reward visitors more than speed.

Best Time to Visit

Kakamega can be visited all year. The drier months from December to February are usually easier for walking, with fewer muddy trails, and are good for birding. Rain falls throughout the year and sometimes arrives in heavy afternoon bursts, so a waterproof jacket is essential. Mornings are the best time for activity in all seasons. See our best time to visit Kenya guide for the bigger picture.

Getting There and Where to Stay

Kakamega lies in western Kenya and can be reached by road from Kisumu, Eldoret or Kitale, or by a combination of a flight to Kisumu and a transfer. The roads become rougher near the forest, so allow generous time. Accommodation ranges from forest lodges and community-run bandas to simple guesthouses in Kakamega town. Many travellers stay at least two nights so they can do both a dawn walk and a night walk. See Kenya lodges and camps.

Combining With Other Destinations and Practical Tips

Kakamega fits neatly into a western circuit with Kisumu and Lake Victoria, and it is close to the Ugandan border, so it can be paired with Uganda's forests, for example Mabira Forest or Kibale, on a regional trip. Many travellers also connect it with the Masai Mara. Pack insect repellent, long sleeves, binoculars and sturdy footwear, and carry a small torch for night walks. Our health and vaccinations guide covers malaria precautions.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team