Recommended Forests

Mt. Kenya Forest

Mt Kenya, Africa’s second highest peak, is regarded as the realm of Ngai, god of the local Kikuyu people. The mountain itself is an awe-inspiring sight with its ragged peaks and equatorial snow. Mount Kenya is surrounded by a belt of verdant forest that is an equally fascinating destination.

Traditionally, all Kikuyu homes were built to face this sacred peak.

They call it Kirinyaga, or place of light. While the 5,199 meter summit is a difficult technical climb, the lesser peak of Point Lenana (4,985m) can be easily reached by any fit trekker.

This trek takes between 3 and 5 days, through a fascinating world of forests, wildlife, and unique montane vegetation including podocarpus and grounsel, and finally one of the world’s rarest sights, equatorial snow.

For those who don’t want to climb the Mountain, the cool highlands that surround its base are well worth a visit. The forests are ideal for game viewing, and there are crystal clear mountain streams and lakes that are the perfect place for trout fishing.

****Suggestion for image: A panoramic view of Mt. Kenya with its snow-capped peaks and surrounding forest.****

The Aberdare Forest

The Aberdares are the third highest range of mountains in Kenya, reaching a summit of just over 4,000m. This massive range is well known for its thick salient forests and their prolific game.

At night the forest comes alive

The cries of hyrax and the distinctive rasping growl of leopard echo among the trees. The Aberdares has two ‘Tree Hotels’, unique safari lodges set high in the canopy above waterholes and natural salt licks.

A night in the Aberdares is unforgettable. Elephant herds surround the waterholes, drink and then fade away into the forest. Buffalo bulls fight over territory in spectacular battles. Sleek Genet cats descend from the trees and slip through the halls of the lodge. Occasionally, a Rhino or the elusive Bongo antelope appear and visit the waterhole.

The Aberdares can also be explored by vehicle, or on foot.

There are trekking trails throughout the forests and across the moorlands. A few days spent here is one of Kenya’s best forest treks.

The foothills of the Aberdares are ideal for exploring on horseback, and there are crystal clear mountain streams that abound with Trout. The Aberdares are a great place for waterfalls. There are a series of spectacular falls along the range, and at Nyahururu, Thompson’s Falls have become a popular rest stop for travelers.

There are good roads within the park, though a 4WD vehicle is needed during the rainy season. The lodges and hotels here organize game drives. There are hiking trails through the Aberdares. A ranger guide is compulsory.

****Suggestion for image: A view of the Aberdare Forest with a waterfall in the background.****

Arabuko Sokoke Forest

North of Mombasa is the coastal forest of Arabuko Sokoke. This fascinating forest wilderness is nestled beside the beaches of Watamu, just minutes from the waters of the Indian Ocean. But enter the forest and discover a world apart from the beaches and reefs. In this 400 sq. km reserve, there is an untold wealth of natural beauty.

About Arabuko Sokoke Forest

The beaches of Watamu, just minutes from the waters of the Indian Ocean. But enter the forest and discover a world apart from the beaches and reefs. In this 400 sq. km reserve, there is an untold wealth of natural beauty. The air is filled with butterflies and birds, the trees alive with monkeys, and the forest floor home to many smaller mammals. The forest stretches to the headwaters of the mighty Sabaki River, and occasionally herds of elephant pass through the forest en route to the river.

This rich forest once hid another secret. The 13th century Swahili town of Gedi thrived here for hundreds of years, hidden away from Portuguese invaders and the influence of the outside world. The town was eventually deserted, and today the ruins of Gedi, lying among the trees and twisting vines of the forest, are a haunting reminder of the past.

****Suggestion for image: A dense section of Arabuko Sokoke Forest with butterflies and birds.****

Kakamega Forest

The sheer abundance of birdlife here is overwhelming. This is an important primate reserve, and the forest is full of monkeys of many species. Beautiful Chameleons are often seen in the undergrowth.

At night the forest is a different world

The air is filled with bats and ringing with the sounds of frogs, night birds, and the booming call of the giant forest squirrel.

Despite its easy accessibility, Kakamega is a quiet haven for nature lovers, the perfect place to relax for a few days. The forest has many walking trails, and there are plenty of very good guides available.

****Suggestion for image: A view of Kakamega Forest with a variety of bird species.****