Beach I Safari I Nature I Scenery I Living In I Outdoor I Unusual I Cultural I Arts I History I Heritage I Sports

South Nandi Forest

Forest Reserves in Nandi

South Nandi Forest: Atypical Tropical Forest

The 247 km2 South Nandi Forest, an adjunct of the tropical Kakamega Forest, marked by a mix of mature towering hardwood trees, lies between the Nandi Escarpment and C39 Kapsabet-Kaimosi Road. Set in the southwest region of Nandi, it is comprised of two forest blocks, Kobujoi and Kimondi. Gazetted in 1936 as a Trust Land, to mitigate against wanton destruction and loss, South Nandi Forest plays a key hand in Nandi County’s climate and agriculture. For exploration, Kobujoi Forest Station is a valuable first-stop. There is a Resource Centre that provides useful information, which is also the focal point for ecotourism in Nandi.

Moreover, it has two bandas, with a four bed capacity, and a camping area. Nearby Kobujoi Station is the confluence of Mokong-Kimondi Rivers. The other forest station, Kimondi, is located just 2 km west of Kapsabet town along C39 Kapsabet-Chavakali Road. South and North Nandi Forests, forming a part of the Kakamega-Nandi Forests, are mainly confined to 6,500 feet asl., and display a marked contrast to the Tinderet, Timboroa and Kaptagat Forests flourishing from 7500 to 9000 feet. South and North Nandi Forests are mainly composed of mixed indigenous hardwoods, mainly Croton, making up 65% of the forest’s tree cover.


Kenya’s vast forest reserves are of immeasurable importance in biodiversity conservation, water regulation, and carbon storage. Collectively, these forests, natural and exotic, cover 2008 km2 or about 3.4% of Kenya’s land surface area, and 15% of the most fertile land. They also provide important recreational and ecotourism opportunities for visitors to enjoy Kenya’s natural beauty and wildlife.


outlook

Beyond athletics, famously known as the heartland of Kenyan long-distance running, Nandi County is a region of stunning highland scenery, rich agricultural land, and deep cultural heritage. The county is characterized by highland terrain, with altitudes ranging from 1,300 to 2,500 meters asl. Nandi Escarpment forms a dramatic western boundary, dropping down to the Kavirondo Gulf I Lake Victoria.

You Are Here: South Nandi Forest

Where to Next?

Explore Destinations Nearby South Nandi Forest


Nandi County has a fine and moderate warm climate year long with no cold and hot extremes. Nandi’s climate is influenced by both altitude and geography. Most areas experience temperatures of between 18o C and 25o C.