Kakamega Forest Kenya Eastern Arc Tropical

Kakamega Forest is an important Eastern Arc rainforest located in western Kenya. It’s the only tropical rainforest in the country and is home to a wide range of rare and endangered species, including chimpanzees, elephants, and powerful owls. It’s also an important resource for local communities, providing food, water, and medicines.

Kakamega Forest Kenya Eastern Arc Tropical Summary

Attraction Name: Kakamega Forest
Country: Kenya
Continent: African
Capital Name: Nairobi
Language: Swahili, English
Currency: Kenyan Shilling
Nationality: Kenyan

Why must you visit Kakamega Forest Kenya?

Kakamega Forest in Kenya is a unique and important biodiversity hotspot that is home to many endemic species. It is believed to be the last remnant of the ancient Guineo-Congolian rainforest that once covered most parts of Central and West Africa. The forest is also home to numerous birds, notably the de facto national bird of Kenya, the endangered Jackson’s Francolin, which is found nowhere else in the world.

Additionally, the forest also hosts a variety of other wildlife, including elephant, leopard, buffalo, bushpig, primates and numerous reptiles and amphibians. Visiting Kakamega Forest is an excellent way to explore the rich wildlife and take in the stunning views of the area’s lush forest canopy. Furthermore, the forest provides visitors with a unique cultural experience, with women from the surrounding communities offering guided tours to share the history and folklore connected with the area.

Tell us about Kakamega Forest Kenya

Kakamega Forest is a tropical lowland rainforest located in western Kenya, near the border with Uganda. It is the only remaining tract of the rainforest that originally covered most of western Kenya and is the only natural rainforest in East Africa. The forest is considered to be a biological hotspot, as it is home to a unique and diverse array of flora and fauna. It contains over 400 species of birds, 178 species of butterflies and numerous other species of reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and invertebrates.

Many of the species living in the forest are endemic and endangered, making Kakamega Forest an important area for conservation. The forest is also home to numerous traditional ethnic groups, including the Banyala, Nyala, Tiriki, Maragoli, and the Isukha. It is also an important source of medicinal plants, which are used by local traditional healers to treat a wide variety of illnesses. The forest is open to visitors and provides excellent birdwatching opportunities.

What are the things to do in Kakamega Forest Kenya?

Kakamega Forest is one of Kenya’s most precious natural resources. It spans more than 240 squared kilometers and is home to an amazing array of flora and fauna. For adventure seekers, it provides a great experience of exploration, discovery, and relaxation. Here are some of the things to do in the Kakamega Forest:

Wildlife Viewing: Kakamega Forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including several rare species. A number of safari tour companies provide wildlife viewing excursions of the forest that allow visitors to see chimpanzees, elephants, baboons, black-and- white Colobus monkeys, and other creatures.
Birdwatching: Birdwatchers will enjoy Kakamega Forest for its array of colorful birds. Species such as yellow-bellied greenbul, papyrus gonolek, crested eagle, and Fischer’s turaco are commonly spotted.
Camping: Camping is an enjoyable way to experience the nature of Kakamega Forest. Set up camp on the shore of Lake Victoria for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Hiking: With its lush vegetation and rocky terrain, the forest provides excellent opportunities for hiking. Join a guided tour or embark on a self-guided exploration of the terrain.
Water Activities: Whether it’s a leisurely canoe ride on Lake Victoria or a thrilling whitewater rafting trip down the Lugwe River, there is an abundance of water activities that can be enjoyed in Kakamega Forest.
Fishing: Fishing enthusiasts can explore the rivers of the forest in search of the juiciest catfish, tilapia, and even endangered Victoria Nyanza perch.

Kakamega Forest is one of the most beautiful and diverse forest ecosystems on the planet. Whether you’re looking for a memorable wildlife excursion, an adventure-filled camping trip, or just a quiet day of fishing, this Kenyan paradise has something for everyone.

What are the best foods at Kakamega Forest Kenya?

The best foods to be found in Kakamega Forest are the species of wild fruits and vegetables that grow in the forest. These include mangoes, bananas, coconuts, avocados, oranges, pumpkins, cassava, maize and many more. Other wild food offerings include a variety of mushrooms, wild nuts, and honey from local beekeepers.