​Birds – Kakamega Forest

Anthony Ham
Expert
By Anthony Ham

Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of many Lonely Planet guidebooks, including the guide to Kenya.

Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of the Lonely Planet guide to Kenya.

Anthony is the author of the Lonely Planet guide to Kenya.

Kakamega Forest National Reserve is an eastern extension of the great Congo Basin rainforest. It is one of Africa’s most famous birding forests, and it supports more than 80 species on the eastern limit of their range from Central and West Africa. Examples of this are the spectacular great blue turaco and the colorful blue-headed bee-eater. More than 350 bird species have been recorded, 36 of which are endemic to the forest and can only be found here.

Notable Birds in Kakamega Forest
› ‹
Cinnamon-chested bee-eater
Locally common
Crested guineafowl
Common
Giant kingfisher
Common
Great blue turaco
Occasional
Vieillot’s black weaver
Locally common

Birding Rating

Birding Specials –Treats for Avid Birders

Facts & Figures

Birds in Kakamega Forest
Bird Species
350+
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr

Best Time for Bird Watching

Many birders find Kakamega Forest a bird-watcher’s paradise that is productive all year. Unusual forest species are often permanent inhabitants and can be seen at any time. June to August is particularly rewarding as many birds breed and display at that time. Migratory birds swoop into the forest from November to April. There is a lot of rain throughout the year, but April and May are the wettest months and travel in that time can be more challenging.

Want To Visit Kakamega Forest?

Kakamega Forest Safaris

Birding Rating

Facts & Figures

Birds in Kakamega Forest
Bird Species
350+
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr