Kakamega Weather in May

May is wet and cloudy

May feels damp for much of the day in Kakamega. Rain falls on 27 days, and thick cloud leaves little sunshine. Afternoons are mild, but paths can turn muddy and slippery.

You can still visit Kakamega Forest for birdwatching and guided walks between showers. Keep plans flexible, and avoid long hikes if heavy rain has made the trails slick. The Isiukhu Falls area is lovely in the wet season, but the path can be tricky underfoot.

Quiet days, fewer visitors

May is a low point for comfort, while January and February are among the better months. You'll generally find fewer visitors than in those drier months, and accommodation may cost less. Exact prices vary, so don't assume every stay will be a bargain.

If you hate crowds, May's quieter forest trails may suit you, as long as you don't mind getting caught in rain.

Labour Day falls on May 1 and is a public holiday in Kenya. Some offices and businesses may close, though it isn't a major Kakamega visitor event.

Make the forest work for you

The cooler, rainy weather can make a forest walk more pleasant than sightseeing under strong sun. But don't count on a full day outdoors: rain and cloud can interrupt plans. Kakamega town is a useful base if you want to pause indoors between outings.

Ask a local guide about trail conditions before setting off from the Kakamega Forest reserve entrance. In particular, check the route towards Isiukhu Falls; wet ground can make the descent awkward. A guide can also help you spot birds when the forest is quiet.