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Overview
Discover the hidden avian gems of Western Kenya on this specialized 6-Day Birding Safari. This itinerary takes you off the beaten path to the lush Kakamega Forest, the only remnant of the ancient Guineo-Congolian rainforest in Kenya. Here, you will search for West African forest species found nowhere else in the country. Your journey concludes on the shores of Lake Victoria in Kisumu, a haven for waterbirds and the rare Papyrus Gonolek.
Price per person sharing (USD)
| Guests in the vehicle | Per person sharing |
|---|---|
| 2 guests | USD 1,725 |
| 4 guests | USD 1,380 |
| 6 guests | USD 1,265 |
Rates are per person sharing, based on the number of guests in the safari vehicle. Contact us for an exact quote for your group size and travel dates.
Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi to Kakamega Forest
Your birding adventure begins with an early morning departure from Nairobi, driving west through the Great Rift Valley and the tea plantations of Kericho. Arrive at Kakamega Forest in the afternoon. Check in at the serene Rondo Retreat Centre, nestled deep within the forest. Enjoy a late afternoon nature walk to spot forest giants like the Great Blue Turaco and Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill.
Dinner and overnight at Rondo Retreat Centre.
Day 2: Full Day Birding in Kakamega Forest
Wake up to the cacophony of forest life. Spend the full day exploring the various trails of Kakamega, such as the Pump House and Buyangu Hill. This forest is home to over 360 bird species. Look for the Blue-headed Bee-eater, Turner's Eremomela, and the Grey Parrot. Your guide will help you identify the unique calls of the forest dwellers. Enjoy a picnic lunch under the canopy before continuing your search.
Dinner and overnight at Rondo Retreat Centre.
Day 3: Deep Forest Exploration
Dedicate another day to the deeper parts of the forest to find the shy and elusive species. Early morning is the best time to spot the Equatorial Akalat and the White-tailed Ant-thrush. You may also encounter diverse primates, including the Red-tailed Monkey and the beautiful De Brazza's Monkey. In the evening, take a night walk (optional) to look for the Potto and various owl species.
Dinner and overnight at Rondo Retreat Centre.
Day 4: Kakamega Forest to Kisumu (Lake Victoria)
After a final morning bird walk, bid farewell to the rainforest and drive to Kisumu City on the shores of Lake Victoria. Check in at Dunga Hill Camp. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on the lake to spot waterbirds like the African Skimmer, Hamerkop, and Kingfishers. The lake breeze offers a refreshing change of pace.
Dinner and overnight at Dunga Hill Camp.
Day 5: Dunga Swamp & Kisumu Bird Sanctuary
Spend the day exploring the Dunga Swamp and the local heronry. This papyrus swamp is a critical habitat for the near-threatened Papyrus Gonolek and Papyrus Canary. You will also visit the Kisumu Impala Sanctuary, which hosts free-ranging impalas and zebras, as well as caged leopards and lions. The sanctuary's lakefront location attracts numerous waders and egrets.
Dinner and overnight at Sarova Imperial Hotel (Kisumu).
Day 6: Kisumu to Nairobi
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast in Kisumu. Depending on your preference, you can visit the nearby Ndere Island National Park (optional) for a morning hike before beginning your drive back to Nairobi. You will be dropped off at your hotel or airport in Nairobi, marking the end of your unique Western Kenya birding safari.
Included
Included in Your Trip Cost
- Accommodation
- Meals as per itinerary
- National Park entrance fees
- Professional Tour guide
- Tour Van or Land cruiser
- Drinking water
Excluded
- International Flights
- Tips
- Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
- Laundry
What Our Guests Say
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Good to know
Questions about 6 Days Kenya Birding Safari: Kakamega Forest & Kisumu
Where does this safari start and finish?
Pick-ups and meetings are arranged in Nairobi. Tell us your hotel or arrival flight and we will confirm the exact meeting point and time.
Who will guide me?
Your safari is led by an experienced driver-guide who knows the parks and wildlife. Our consultants are also on WhatsApp at +254 794 588 242 if you have questions along the way.
Can I change the itinerary?
Yes. Every tour can be adjusted to your dates, budget, group size and interests. Send us your changes and we will confirm what is possible.
What is included in the price?
See the Included and Excluded lists above for this tour. We confirm everything in writing in your quote, so there are no surprises.
How do I book and pay?
Send an enquiry or message us on WhatsApp and a consultant will confirm availability and send your quote. Payments are made securely online through Pesapal, and we explain each step when you confirm.
What should I know about health and safety?
Please arrange travel insurance, speak to your doctor about vaccinations and malaria prevention, and read our safety and health guide before you travel.
Request a Free Quote
Tell us your dates and group size — we’ll reply, usually the same day, with a tailored quote. No payment needed.
- Free, no-obligation quote, usually the same day
- Tailor-made itineraries for your dates & budget
- Private safari vehicle & expert local guides
- Meet & pick-up in Nairobi, support throughout your trip