Kakamega Forest

Wildlife & Animals

Expert

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

Although teeming with small animals, Kakamega Forest National Reserve is not primarily a wildlife destination. There are seven primate species of which you could easily see black-and-white colobus, red-tailed and blue monkey. The very rare de Brazza's monkey is more difficult to find. Giant forest squirrels live in the canopy, while you might see some small antelope, such as duiker and dik-dik, scurrying off in the undergrowth.

ElephantNone

GiraffeNone

HippoRare

BuffaloNone

ZebraNone

WildebeestNone

White RhinoNone

Black RhinoNone

LionNone

LeopardRare to None

CheetahNone

HyenaNone

Wild DogNone

Wildlife Highlights

The forest transforms after sundown. Night walks are conducted by spotlight and are more than worthwhile. Some of the nocturnal creatures you might encounter are bushpig, genet and civet. Hammer-headed fruit bats can be seen in flight. Rare sightings of potto and tree pangolin have been recorded, and a real Kakamega special is the giant otter shrew. There are lots of interesting insects as well, including the supersized goliath beetle.

Best Time for Wildlife Viewing

Kakamega Forest can be visited throughout the year, but heavy rains might interfere with hiking trips. The driest months are from December to February. The heaviest rain is in April and May, so these months are less ideal.