Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest
Diani Beach Road, Diani Beach, Kenya
One of a web of forests that Kenya’s Mijikenda tribes hold sacred, the Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest was once home to the Digo Mijikenda people and today still holds great cultural significance. A network of trails run through centuries-old trees that are home to bush babies and colobus monkeys, leading to the central settlement area where the Digo tribe once lived.
The basics
Travelers can only explore the Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest on a walk with a local guide. As well as spotting animals, birds, trees, and plants, guests learn about the rich cultural traditions that infuse the forest. Besides discovering medicinal herbs and other plants used to sustain communities, you can visit shrines where locals talked to their ancestral spirits and spaces where they hid from their enemies in times of conflict. You can even hug away your problems at the hugging tree.
Things to know before you go
The Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest is a great choice for anyone with an interest in religion, culture, or nature.
Out of respect for the ancestral spirits, travelers need to wear a traditional sarong and remove hats or scarves. You can only film and photograph in certain areas.
The natural forest paths are not suitable for travelers who rely on wheelchairs.
How to get there
The Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest lies about 10 miles (15 kilometers) south of Diani Beach. Most travelers hire a driver, negotiate with a tuk tuk or a taxi, or look for tours that include transfers. Be aware that it’s hard to find rideshares back from the forest, so it’s best to have round-trip transport organised.
When to get there
The Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest is open during daylight hours and is never crowded. Temperatures are generally cooler either early or late in the day. This part of the Kenyan coast typically enjoys the best weather from December to March or June to September, while April through May can see heavy rain.
Diani Beach village tours
If you’d like to discover more of Kenya’s rich culture, a village tour is a great way to experience it. Some tours include the chance to meet herbal healers (bush doctors), watch traditional dance performances, or prepare local specialties over a cooking fire, while others include visits to ecosystems such as forest or coastal mangroves.
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