Karura Forest Birding
Canopy species, sunbirds, turacos, and tranquil riverine walks.
From the AviWild photography collection. Wildlife sightings vary with season and conditions.
A closer look.
Discover one of the world's largest urban forest reserves, spanning 1,041 hectares of lush greenery just minutes from Nairobi's Central Business District. Its close proximity to the city center makes Karura Forest the perfect reserve for an immersive, day birding tour.
Karura Forest is divided into two distinct sections: the Sigiria/Thigiri and the Main Block. Our guided birding tours primarily explore the Main Block, which features excellent, well-maintained trails and an opportunity to spot relatively more species. We will take a gentle bird-walk along flat, accessible terrain under a canopy of indigenous trees.
During the tour, we will visit scenic wetland sites, including Turaco Stream, Karura River, and Lily Lake. You will also have the opportunity to marvel at the impressive 15-meter Karura Waterfall and explore the historic Mau Mau Caves. Along the way, keep an eye out for local wildlife such as antelopes, squirrels, and monkeys.
Birdlife & wildlife highlights
Karura Forest supports a diverse sanctuary of over 200 bird species, spanning forest-dwelling, grassland, and wetland habitats.
Birdlife
Hartlaub’s Turaco, Narina Trogon, African Crowned Eagle, Long-crested Eagle, Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater, Malachite Kingfisher, African Black Duck, White-backed Duck, Brown-chested Alethe, Abyssinian Thrush, Rüppell’s Robin-Chat, African Emerald Cuckoo, Klaas’s Cuckoo, Yellow-whiskered Greenbul, Kikuyu White-eye, Tropical Boubou, African Paradise Flycatcher, Amethyst Sunbird, Bronze Sunbird, Variable Sunbird, and the Eastern Double-collared Sunbird.
Mammals
Harvey’s Duiker, Bushbuck, Suni Antelope, Sykes’ Monkey, Mount Kenya Guereza Colobus, Angolan Collared Fruit Bat, and the Ochre Bush Squirrel.
Unforgettable moments
Included
- Forest entry
- Professional guide services
Plan for separately
- Transport unless arranged
- Meals and equipment rental
Request this tour
From USD 50 · per adult