Mau Forest
📍 Nakuru, Nakuru
The Mau Forest Complex is the largest montane forest in East Africa and a vital watershed for many of Kenya's major rivers. Covering a vast landscape across the Rift Valley, it is an ecological powerhouse, supporting incredible biodiversity, including unique bird species and vital forest wildlife.
- Location
- Nakuru, Nakuru
- Type
- Forest
- Status
- Open
- Typical Visit
- Three or More Days
- Booking
- Walk-ins accepted
- Main Access
- Road
Visitor Information at a Glance
- Official Name
- Mau Forest
- Alternative Names
- Mau Forest Complex
- Attraction Type
- Forest
- County
- Nakuru
- Nearest Town
- Nakuru
- Ownership
- National Government
- Significance
- National
- Wheelchair Access
- Not Accessible
- Visit Duration
- Three or More Days
- Researchers
- Photographers
About Mau Forest
The forest serves as the ‘water tower’ of Kenya, regulating the drainage of numerous rivers. While large swathes have faced historical conservation challenges, the core remains a critical habitat and an important area for ecological research, trekking, and birdwatching.
Why Visit Mau Forest
A must-visit for serious nature lovers and researchers interested in Kenya’s massive watershed ecosystems, high-altitude biodiversity, and deep forest wilderness.
Expansive forest trails, unique montane birdlife, and diverse indigenous plant species.
History and Significance
History
Historically a central feature of the Mau plateau; currently the focus of intensive national restoration and protection efforts.
Significance
National significance as a critical watershed, water tower, and carbon sink.
Things to Do
Trekking and birdwatching in remote wilderness.
Wildlife and Natural Environment
- Forest
- Mountain
- Forest
- Montane
- Indigenous Forest
Diverse mountain and forest wildlife; sensitive area.
Ongoing national reforestation and conservation initiatives.
Opening Hours and Booking
🕒 Open 24 hours.
- Advance Booking
- Not indicated as required
- Walk-ins
- Accepted
How to Get There
- Main Access
- Road
- Road Surface
- Earth
- Road Condition
- Poor
- 4WD Required
- Yes
- Public Transport
- Not confirmed
- Parking
- Not confirmed
- Nearest Air Access
- Kisumu International Airport
- Distance from Nairobi
- 200 km
Limited formal access points; 4×4 vehicles and local coordination are essential.
Facilities and Visitor Services
- Guides
- Camping
No formal visitor facilities; camping is wild.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Access
- Not Accessible
Vast, wild forest without established accessible infrastructure.
- Researchers
- Photographers
Best Time to Visit
- Best Months
- January, February, September, October
Rules and Safety
- General Safety Level
- Moderate Risk
Visitor Rules
Strict adherence to forest management regulations.
Safety Information
Wild area; ensure proper navigation and guide assistance.
Photography and Drone Policy
Requires government permission for research or commercial filming.