All Parks & Reserves

Sacred Mijikenda Kaya Forests

Sacred forest sites of the Mijikenda people along the Kenya coast

  • Country Kenya
  • Park type UNESCO World Heritage Site|Forest Reserve
  • Established 2008
  • Best months July to March
Where to stay

Where to stay in Sacred Mijikenda Kaya Forests

We haven't added glamping stays in Sacred Mijikenda Kaya Forests yet. We're adding new camps every week.

Browse all glamping stays →

Sacred Mijikenda Kaya Forests guide

Overview

The Sacred Mijikenda Kaya Forests are a group of forest sites along about 200 km of the Kenya coast. They were named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.

The kayas are the remains of fortified villages of the Mijikenda people. Today they are sacred places, cared for by councils of elders.

The inscribed site is made up of 10 separate forests, which hold more than 30 kayas. Some kayas welcome visitors for guided walks with local guides.

Wildlife & Biodiversity

Forest life

The kayas are among the last patches of coastal forest in Kenya, with rare plants, butterflies and forest birds.

Best Time to Visit

Short answer: July to March, outside the long rains, when the sea is calmer and clearer.

MonthsSeasonWhat to expect
Jul – OctCool, dry seasonBreezy, with good visibility on calm days.
Nov – MarHot, dry seasonCalm, warm sea and the best snorkelling.
Apr – JunLong rainsWet and windy. Rough seas.

Respect local rules inside the forests. Your guide will explain what is allowed.

Getting There

By air

Airport Best for Notes
Moi International (MBA), Mombasa Coastal arrivals About 1 hour or more by road, depending on the kaya.

By road

The kayas are spread between Kilifi and Kwale counties. Ask locally for access to the kayas that receive visitors.

Entrance & Fees

Kayas that receive visitors charge a small fee for a guided walk.

Confirm the fee with the local guides before you visit.

Fees last checked October 2026. No official fee schedule is published online.

Location

Official Website →