KAKAMEGA FOREST & LAKE VICTORIA

Kakamega Forest Reserve covers an area of about 240 km2 and was established to protect the only tropical rainforest in Kenya, a remnant and eastern limit of rainforests of Zaire and West Africa. As a remnant of previously large forest, Kakamega is a refuge of many endemic species of animals and plants.

The second largest fresh water lake in the world, Lake Victoria geographically dominates the area with its 70,000 sq km surface. Despite its huge size, the murky lake is not that deep - only 100 metres at its deepest.

Although it borders on three countries - Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda - it is no longer possible to travel between these countries via the lake.

The basin is home to the Luo people, who moved into the area from Sudan in the 15th century and are now Kenya's third largest ethnic group.

Although western Kenya does not attract many tourists and is blissfully free of safari minibuses, it is an extremely scenic region with gentle hills and emerald tea plantations.

A Lake Victoria Safari will guarantee you uncrowded and private game viewing. The region is also ideal for birdwatching as the lake attracts a variety of large water birds.