Natural Forests

Aberdares Forest

The Salient forest of the Aberdares is very rich in big game. Large herds of Buffalo and Elephant are often seen, especially at the Salt Licks and waterholes of the Forest Lodges.The impressively huge Giant forest Hog is often seen at night, and there are many leopards here, and a few Rhino. One of the rarest residents is the beautiful Bongo antelope.In the treetops around the lodges, Colobus monkeys are often seen, while at night bushbabies and Genets slip quietly through the rafters.There are game drives and treks possible through the Salient. The Forest Lodges are an excellent way to see game.

Built high over well lit waterholes and salt licks, these lodges are visited by a procession of oblivious game throughout the day and night. This allows guests to watch the wildlife from the comfort and warmth of the lodge. This privileged position gives guests the rare opportunity to observe natural behaviour and interaction as various animals emerge from the forest.

The Aberdares are the third highest range of mountains in Kenya, reaching a summit of just over 4000m. This massive range is well known for its thick salient forests, and their prolific game.These high altitude forests are broken by moorlands and plains, and through the abundant tree cover there are sensational views of the Rift Valley and the peak of Mt Kenya.The forest is a hidden world of wildlife. The thick vegetation provides perfect cover for countless species. Very large herds of Elephant and Buffalo move almost silently through the undergrowth, while overhead noisome birds and colobus monkeys dominate the canopy. At night the forest comes alive, the cries of hyrax and the distinctive rasping growl of leopard echoing among the trees. The Aberdares has two ‘Tree Hotels’, unique safari lodges set high in the canopy above waterholes and natural salt licks. Night sees an unending procession of game emerge from the forests to visit these clearings. This is an ideal opportunity for guests to unobtrusively observe game at length.

A night in the Aberdares is unforgettable. Elephant herds surround the waterholes, drink and then fade way into the forest. Buffalo bulls fight over territory in spectacular battles. Sleek Genet cats descend from the trees and slip through halls of the lodge. the 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 became a popular rest stop for travellers.

Arabuko Sokoke

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. 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….

Kakamega

The equatorial rainforest of Kakamega is a living museum of unique and rare species.This wonderful place is a treasure trove where the massive trees and thick wet undergrowth are the habitat of a world of diverse wildlife.The sheer abundance of birdlife here is overwhelming. This is an important primate reserves, 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 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.

Fourteen Falls and Kilimambogo

Fouteen falls and Kilimabogo, located 65 km from the city center derived its name from the fouteen succseive falls of water from the Athirive near the falls is Kilimabogoa swahiliword for moutain of buffalor and home to the great philantropist Sir Macmilla.Half way downthe hill is the grave for Sr Macmillahis wife and his helper.