Kakamega Kakamega County, Kenya Travel Guide
Kakamega maintains warm daytime weather year-round, with average daily highs between 27-29°C (81-84°F). Evenings bring a pleasant coolness, with average daily lows between 15-17°C (59-63°F).
Long Rains occur from March to May having heavy, sometimes intense, downpours. Short Rains from September to November hold considerable rain, though often less intense. Humidity stays generally high, often exceeding 80%.
Kakamega experiences no monsoons or hurricanes. Extreme temperatures are rare. However, heavy rainfall during the rainy seasons can cause localized flooding.
This flooding might impact unpaved roads, making travel outside of main routes challenging. Always check local weather forecasts if travel at these times is on your agenda.
(Rainy Seasons: March-May, Sept-Nov)
Fewer tourists, lower accommodation rates, a sense of solitude.
Muddy trails, torrential downpours limit activities, pricier insect activity.
(Early March, Late May, Early Sept, Late Nov)
Fewer tourists, lush landscapes, potentially lower prices.
Variable weather, quick shifts between dry and wet periods.
(Dry Seasons: Dec-Feb, June-Aug)
Comfortable hiking, less muddy trails, better wildlife viewing, sunnier skies.
Potentially busier, accommodation might need advance booking.
The dry seasons (December-February and June-August) present the most comfortable and accessible conditions for hiking, birdwatching, and primate viewing. Less mud and clearer skies enhance the experience.
During rainy periods, birdwatching can be rewarding as many species become more lively. Expect rain interruptions.
Ideal in dry seasons for easier trails.
Good year-round, but dry seasons offer better access; rainy seasons present active birds.
Clearer sightings during dry periods.
Sunny skies in dry season, lush greens in rainy season.
Dry seasons for a generally pleasant experience.
Kenya generally requires most foreign nationals to obtain a visa prior to entry. The electronic visa (eVisa) system serves as the standard application method.
A Single Entry Visa suits most tourists. Multiple Entry Visas are available for those planning several entries. Apply online through the official EVisa portal or a service like VisaHQ. Applying several weeks it's wise to book in advance.
The fee for a single entry eVisa holds around USD 51, is not fixed. Verify the current cost on the official eVisa portal.
Here is an estimated daily cost breakdown for various travel budgets in KES (USD equivalent roughly 1 USD = 130-150 KES):
This section has required vaccinations, common health concerns, safety measures, and emergency contacts for Kakamega. Consult your doctor or a travel clinic well in advance of your trip for personalized advice.
Kakamega region is malaria-prone. Use anti-malarial medication as prescribed. Sleep under mosquito nets. Apply Insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin.
Dress in long sleeves and trousers, especially at dawn and dusk. Dengue Fever and Chikungunya are also mosquito-borne diseases; preventative measures against mosquitoes also apply here.
A common ailment. Drink only bottled or purified water. Avoid ice unless source certainty. Consume only thoroughly cooked food and peel all fruits yourself. Maintain clean hands.
Carry rehydration salts and Anti-diarrhea medication.
Avoid tap water and unpeeled fruits from unknown sources.
The equatorial sun holds strength. Use High-SPF sunscreen, wear Wide-brimmed hats, and stay hydrated by drinking sufficient water throughout the day.
Hydrate frequently and use sun protection.
Do not underestimate the sun's intensity.
Kakamega County Referral Hospital functions as the main public facility. Several private clinics offer better standards of care for a fee. Pharmacies stock basic medications.
Bring specific prescription medications.
Evacuation to Nairobi may be necessary for serious emergencies.
| Category | Details | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Required Vaccinations | Yellow Fever (age 1+ from countries considered high-risk). | Carry original certificate. |
| Recommended Vaccinations | Routine, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Malaria Prophylaxis. | Consult doctor in advance. |
| Water/Food Safety | Tap water not safe. Avoid whole fruits, raw salads. | Bottled/purified water. Eat hot, cooked food. |
Comprehensive travel insurance holds strong recommendation for any trip to Kenya. Your policy should cover medical emergencies, including emergency evacuation, trip disruption, baggage loss, and personal liability.
Coverage for stays in the hospital, medical appointments, and medications overseas.
Expenses for transport to suitable medical facilities, potentially to Nairobi.
Covers expenses in the unfortunate event of death while abroad.
Always review policy details carefully to comprehend your coverage.
Trip cancellation or interruption coverage protects your financial investment if unforeseen circumstances disrupt your travel plans.
Misplaced baggage or delay coverage offers reimbursement for lost, stolen, or delayed luggage and its contents.
Personal liability coverage protects you in case you accidentally cause injury or damage to others' property.
Popular for adventurous travelers, covering a range of activities.
Designed for people who work remotely and travel, with flexible coverage.
Many other reputable insurance companies offer international travel policies.
Keep these numbers readily accessible and store them on your phone, in addition to a physical copy:
Travel smart and save in Kakamega with these practical tips:
Matatus and boda-bodas offer the most affordable way to travel short distances.
Dine at local eateries (vibandas) for authentic and inexpensive meals, offering value.
Practice polite bargaining in markets and when negotiating taxi fares.
