Exploring South Nandi Forest on Kenya Safari Tours
South Nandi Forest is not like the other forests you will encounter on a Kenya safari tours. It is not a small reserve with just a few trails, nor is it a dry savannah woodland. It is a mid-elevation rainforest, a transition zone between the lowland forests of Central and West Africa and the montane forests of Kenya's highlands, located just west of Kapsabet town in Kenya's Rift Valley Province . On a Kenya safari tours, most travelers speed through this agricultural region on their way to the western circuit, completely bypassing this 169.95 km² forest of high conservation value . That is a mistake. The forest was gazetted in 1936 as a Trust Forest covering 20,200 hectares, though significant portions have since been excised for settlement, tea plantations, and exotic tree species . Once contiguous with the famous Kakamega Forest, South Nandi is drained by the Kimondi and Sirua rivers, which merge to form the Yala River, a vital tributary flowing into Lake Victoria . The forest is home to unique biodiversity, rare birds, primates, and reptiles, and is part of a key water catchment area that supports livelihoods across Nandi, Vihiga, Kakamega, and Siaya Counties ..
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Wildlife and Birding in South Nandi Forest on Kenya Safari Tours
A Kenya Safari Tours adventure here is not about the Big Five, but about a rare and remarkable forest ecosystem. On Kenya Safari Tours, you come for the birds. The forest is recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA) and, as of 2025, a confirmed Key Biodiversity Area (KBA) . With 226 bird species recorded, including Turner's Eremomela (globally threatened), it is a world-class birding destination . On Kenya Safari Tours, you can spot the stunning Blue-headed Bee-eater, which in Kenya is restricted only to Kakamega and South Nandi Forests . Other highlights include the Great Blue Turaco, Hartlaub's Turaco, Bar-tailed Trogon, Chapin's Flycatcher, and the Narina Trogon . The forest is also home to primates including the Black and White Colobus, Blue Monkey, and Red-tailed Monkey, with studies showing a high density of Blue Monkeys and significant interspecific interactions between these species, especially during the dry season when food is scarce .
Best Time to Visit South Nandi Forest on Kenya Safari Tours
The best time for a Kenya safari tours to visit South Nandi Forest is during the dry seasons from June to October and January to February, when the weather is clear and the trails are less muddy. The forest is a birding destination year-round, and the wet seasons bring lush greenery and vibrant birdlife. Early morning visits offer the best chances for primate and bird sightings.
How to Get to South Nandi Forest on Kenya Safari Tours
On a Kenya safari tours, South Nandi Forest is located in Nandi County, approximately a 5 to 6-hour drive from Nairobi. The journey takes you through the scenic Great Rift Valley, heading towards Kapsabet, the nearest town. It is advisable to travel with a local guide who can navigate the forest trails, share stories of its ecology and conservation, and help you spot the endemic species.
Where to Stay on Kenya Safari Tours near South Nandi Forest
On a Kenya safari tours, accommodation near South Nandi Forest is available in Kapsabet town and in the nearby Nandi Hills and Kakamega areas. The Rondo Retreat Centre, located in the adjacent Kakamega Rainforest, is a peaceful Christian retreat offering cozy cottages, guided nature walks, and a serene escape into nature. Basic guesthouses and lodges are also available in Kapsabet for those seeking a more local experience.
Why Book with Dav Safaris for Kenya Safari Tours
Kenya Safari Tours with Dav Safaris offers reliable guided trips to South Nandi Forest, ensuring unforgettable Kenya Safari Tours. On Kenya Safari Tours, our local guides are experts on the forest's ecology and birdlife, and can lead you to the best spots for wildlife sightings. We handle all logistics, including transport, park fees, guides, and accommodation. You just show up with your camera and binoculars. Our itineraries are flexible on Kenya Safari Tours. Want to focus on birding on Kenya Safari Tours? We can do that. Want to combine a visit to the forest with a trip to Kakamega Forest on Kenya Safari Tours? We can arrange it. Want a mix of hiking, wildlife viewing, and community visits on Kenya Safari Tours? We can do that too, ensuring your Kenya Safari Tours are tailored to you.
