Butterflys, birds and forest monkeys in
Kakamega Forest

Forest surrounding

Kakamega Forest is placed in one of the most densely populated rural areas of Kenya. Within a 2km-buffer next to the forest boundary, in 1999 on average 643 inh./kmē were found, near Kakamega Town and at the southern edge even about 1,000 inh./kmē. This number is increasing by about 150 inh./kmē and five year.

Rural livelihood is based on small-scale subsistence farming, in the south including the cultivation of tea while in the north of sugar cane which requires a more favourable climate. Kakamega Town itself can be described as a lively city due to its young and rapidly growing university. The area is rich regarding cultural traditions, with e.g. Isukuti dance and bull fighting of the Luhya people or the sacred forests of the Tiriki to the south.

 

Tourist attractions

In Kenya Kakamega Forest is famous for its unique bird (488 species, being listed as Important Bird Area) and butterfly diversity (487 species), plus that it is perhaps the best place in Kenya to watch forest monkeys (6 primate species). 84 km of walking trails allow to explore the forest ideally by foot. The forest guides are happy to take you for a walk while explaining this unique ecosystem. Whereas some steep hills like Lirhanda, Mahiakalo, Buyangu, and Kambiri offer spectacular views over the forest.

Overnight facilities in form of guesthouses, bandas or campsites are provided by KWS, KFS or KEEP. These stakeholders will also advice you on how to experience cultural activities. Kakamega Forest is also unique regarding its available information material. As such you can learn a lot more during your visit to Kakamega Forest.

Kakamega Forest used to be the main focus area of research within the BIOTA East Africa project. See also the Web pages by KWS and KFS for more information.
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