How to get to Kakamega

Kakamega is a colourful city in western Kenya, serving as the gateway to the famous tropical rainforest of the same name. Before travelling to Kakamega, it is worth exploring the available transport options in advance to plan the perfect itinerary. We will explain how to reach the city by plane, bus, or car, ensuring your journey is easy and exciting.

Kakamega itself does not have a civil airport for large passenger liners, so it is most convenient for travellers to use the airports of neighbouring cities. The nearest and most popular arrival point is Kisumu, located just a few dozen kilometres from your final destination.

You can also consider flying into Eldoret or Kitale, which regularly receive domestic flights from various parts of Kenya. Upon arrival at any of these airports, you will easily find transport to cover the remaining part of the journey and reach the city.

There is no railway station in Kakamega itself, but this is no reason to forego a journey by rail. The optimal option for tourists is to take the popular Kisumu Safari Train route, which runs from Nairobi to the city of Kisumu, located on the shores of Lake Victoria.

The distance from the Kisumu railway station to Kakamega is about 50 kilometres. The remaining part of the journey can be comfortably covered by taxi or local bus in approximately one hour, allowing you to admire the landscapes of the western part of the country.

Bus services connect the city with key transport hubs in the region, offering travellers a convenient and budget-friendly way to travel. The shortest and most popular route is from Kisumu: a journey of about 50 kilometres will take just one hour, allowing you to enjoy the colourful scenery along the way.

For those travelling from the north or east, Eldoret and Kitale make excellent starting points. The road from Eldoret (about 65 km) takes approximately one and a half hours, while the 90-kilometre journey from Kitale can be comfortably covered in a similar amount of time.

Travelling by car through western Kenya allows you to enjoy picturesque views of green hills and colourful local settlements. The quickest route is from Kisumu: the distance of 50 kilometres can be covered in just an hour, whereas the road from Eldoret, spanning about 65 kilometres, will take approximately one and a half hours.

The route from Kitale is slightly longer — about 90 kilometres, which will take around two hours of driving on a paved road. For comfortable movement between cities, it is convenient to use taxi services or book a private transfer; however, it is recommended to agree on the cost of the trip with the driver in advance before departure.

A journey to Kakamega promises to be unforgettable thanks to the unique nature and the hospitality of the local residents. To ensure your trip to this green corner of western Kenya is as comfortable and hassle-free as possible, we have prepared a list of useful practical recommendations.

1. Clothing and gear for the climate. Kakamega is known for its tropical rainforests and frequent rainfall. Be sure to bring a light raincoat or umbrella, as rain can start suddenly, especially in the afternoon. For forest excursions, comfortable, closed, and waterproof shoes with non-slip soles are essential.
2. Transport in the city. The most common and accessible way to travel short distances is the "boda-boda" motorcycle taxi. It is fast but requires caution: always ask for a helmet and agree on the price of the trip in advance. For longer journeys, "matatu" minibuses are suitable.
3. Finances and payment. The official currency is the Kenyan Shilling. In major hotels and supermarkets, you can pay by card, but markets and small shops only accept cash. We recommend carrying small denominations. The M-Pesa mobile payment system also works everywhere.
4. Health and safety. Since the region is humid, there is a risk of mosquito bites. Use repellents and wear long-sleeved clothing in the evening. Drink only bottled water and avoid ice in drinks if you are unsure of its quality. The city is peaceful, but walking alone on unlit streets at night is not advisable.
5. Communication. English is an official language, so there will be no communication problems in hotels and tourist spots. However, locals greatly appreciate it if tourists know a couple of words in Swahili, for example, the greeting "Jambo" (Hello) or thank you "Asante" (Thank you).
6. Local etiquette. Kenyans are a polite and traditional people. It is customary to shake hands upon meeting, and you should greet even strangers if you engage in dialogue. Before taking a photo of a person, be sure to ask for permission — photographing without asking may be perceived negatively.
7. What to avoid. Do not openly display expensive gadgets, jewellery, or large sums of money in crowded public places. Also, try to avoid discussing political topics to avoid getting into an awkward situation.
8. Advice for visiting the forest. If you are heading into the Kakamega Forest, it is best to hire a certified guide from the local association (KFGGA). Independent walks are possible, but with a guide, you will see many more rare birds and primates, and you will not get lost on the forest trails.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid misunderstandings and focus on the main thing — exploring the beauty and culture of this amazing region. Be open and friendly, and Kakamega will welcome you with open arms!