Kakamega Forest National Reserve
✈️ Airport: Kisumu International Airport and Eldoret International Airport
Train: The Kisumu Safari train
Currency: Kenyan Shillings (Kes)
Weather; Warm and Tropical
Language: English and Swahili are the national languages
Time Zone: East Africa Time (GMT+3)
How to get Kakamega Forest National Reserve
By road – The shortest route from Nairobi (418 km) is via Nakuru and Kapsabet. Take the A104 road as far as Timboroa and continue for another 4 km until you see left turn which takes you to the C36 road to Kapsabet from there take the C39 road until it joins the Kisumu – Kakamega road.From Eldoret the shortest route is via the C39 road to Kapsabet.
By air – There are now scheduled flights to Kakamega and visitors can also fly to Kisumu or Eldoret and travel by road to Kakamega.
How to Book a Visit to Kakamega Forest National Reserve
Good news you don’t have to book in advance. Payment is done on Ecitizen
How Much Is The Entry Fee And Opening Hours?
Citizen/Resident Adult-Ksh300
Citizen/Resident Child – Ksh125
Non-Resident Adult 22usd
Non-Resident Child 13usd
Monday to Sunday: 6:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. All year round including public holidays and weekends
What to take with you
Money to buy refreshments or meals
Also useful are: binoculars, camera, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and a guidebook
Kakamega Forest National Reserve On Google Maps
Unveiling the Enchanting Secrets of Kakamega Forest National Reserve
Kakamega Forest National Reserve, a lush paradise nestled in the heart of Kenya’s Western Province. In this blog post, we’ll embark on a journey through the enchanting Kakamega Forest, uncovering its unique features, size, and wildlife wonders, including some of its slithery residents.
Discovering the Uniqueness of Kakamega Forest
Kakamega Forest is renowned for its unparalleled biodiversity and ecological significance, earning it the title of Kenya’s last remaining tropical rainforest. What sets Kakamega apart is its unique blend of flora and fauna, boasting over 380 species of plants, 400 species of birds, and countless insects, mammals, and reptiles. The forest’s dense canopy, towering trees, and meandering streams create a captivating landscape that’s teeming with life and vibrant energy.
How Big is Kakamega Forest?
Covering an area of approximately 238 square kilometers (92 square miles), Kakamega Forest may not be the largest forest in Kenya, but it certainly packs a punch in terms of biodiversity and ecological importance. Its relatively compact size makes it easily accessible for visitors to explore and appreciate its natural wonders, from towering trees to hidden waterfalls and serene hiking trails.
The Largest Forest in Kenya
While Kakamega Forest National Reserve holds a special place in Kenya’s natural heritage, the title of the largest forest in Kenya belongs to the Mau Forest Complex. Encompassing over 400,000 hectares (1,500 square miles) in the Rift Valley and Western Kenya, the Mau Forest Complex plays a critical role in regulating the country’s water supply, supporting biodiversity, and mitigating climate change.
Snakes of Kakamega Forest
For those with a fascination for reptiles, Kakamega Forest is home to a variety of snake species, including the elusive forest cobra, the vibrant green mamba, and the harmless but strikingly patterned house snake. While encountering snakes in the forest is rare and usually occurs deep within the undergrowth, it adds an element of excitement and intrigue to any nature walk or wildlife viewing excursion.
Finally…
Kakamega Forest National Reserve is a true treasure trove of biodiversity and natural beauty, offering visitors a glimpse into Kenya’s rich ecological heritage. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, a botanist, or simply someone who appreciates the wonders of the natural world, Kakamega Forest promises an unforgettable experience. So come, wander beneath the canopy of ancient trees, listen to the symphony of bird calls, and immerse yourself in the magic of Kakamega Forest.