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MUKOGODO FOREST

Location: Located in north eastern Laikipia, lies the Mukogodo Forest Reserve - over 70,000 acres of natural indigenous forest with 170 identified vegetation species including podo, olive and cedar - clothed with lichen, ferns and orchids. The forest and its adjacent rangelands are a haven for birds, butterflies and wildlife including elephant, buffalo, leopard, wild dog, aardvark, tree hyrax, bush buck and dikdik.

Description:
Campsite One: The first campsite is located only a few kms from the grassy plain which is inhabited by Mukogodo Maasai. The campsite is situated under a canopy of trees, near a grassy clearing with a small spring where a variety of small mammals, birds and butterflies gather.
Campsite Two: From a large rock kopje shaded with a fig tree is a spectacular 180 degree view over northern Kenya - best in the early morning or sundown time. Near by is a perfect camping area, with ample space to put-up tents under the shade of enormous cedar trees.
Campsite Three: At the grassy plain a rocky road off to east (signed for Tassia Lodge) leads to a beautiful campsite site, where mature fig trees and flowering shrubs provide a perfect habitat for birds, and in particular the Hartlaub's Turaco. During the rainy season a spring flows over a rocky outcrop and is used by the community to water their livestock.

Accommodation/Facilities:

1. Water available from the windmill near the grass plain which pumps water up from an underwater spring
2. Firewood available
3. Guests are requested to dig temporary toilets and cover on departure
4. Day-time rangers are on hand to guide visitors on all walks and to help in the campsite
5. Night-time watch man is available
6. Safaricom signal available

Walking, hiking & biking: The Mukogodo Forest has boundless potential for walking, hiking and mountain biking, with various nature trail options suitable for family groups and energetic hikers. The Forest offers walks in to the valley, over hills, passed springs and onto rocky outcrops with view points, ideal for picnics and sundowners. As many of the walking routes follow wildlife paths, there are exciting opportunities to identify spoor. Local guides must accompany visitors on all walks and hikes, and advice on the whereabouts of elephant and buffalo must be sought before heading out on bike rides.

Telephone: ILMAMUSI Manager 0721 293 474

Cultural Interaction: Opportunities to visit traditional homes belonging to Mukogodo Maasai, visits to herbal centre and ele-dung paper project.

Access / Directions:

1. Approx 53ms to ILMAMUSI / Laragai police post (1.5 hours) from Nanyuki. 4-wheel drive vehicle required
2. Head north on the Nanyuki - Meru road through Timau town - 28kms
3. One km after Timau turn left on a dirt road marked with several signs
4. Proceed a further 10kms and take the left hand just before Ethi town (signed for Tassia & Il N'gwesi)
5. Go through an ele fence after another 5kms
6. A further 2kms on there is a "cross-road" and carry on straight
7. The police post is another 7kms on - a guide / ranger should be collected here.

Please Click here to enquire.

Mukogodo camping site.


Mountain biking at Mukogodo.


View point from Mukogodo forest.