Kitich Forest Camp
Hidden deep within the forested slopes of the Matthews Range, Kitich Forest Camp is one of the most atmospheric and remote safari camps in northern Kenya. Located inside Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy, the camp sits beside the clear waters of the Ngeng River beneath towering forest trees.
Unlike the open savannah landscapes of southern Kenya, Kitich offers a completely different safari setting. The surrounding forest, mountain streams, and quiet valleys create an environment where the pace of safari slows and the wilderness feels closer and more intimate.
Kitich Forest Camp has long been respected among experienced safari travellers and guides for its exceptional walking safaris and its sense of true wilderness.
Location & Landscape
The camp lies deep in the Matthews Range, one of the most beautiful and least visited wilderness areas in Kenya.
This mountain range rises dramatically from the dry plains of northern Kenya, creating a lush forest ecosystem supported by natural springs and rivers. Ancient trees, shaded valleys, and clear streams make this landscape feel worlds away from the classic East African safari environment.
The forests of the Matthews Range support remarkable biodiversity and provide an important refuge for wildlife in the region.
Accommodation
Kitich Forest Camp remains intentionally simple and authentic, preserving the atmosphere of traditional safari camps.
Accommodation consists of comfortable forest tents positioned along the riverbank. The camp’s design blends naturally into the forest environment, allowing guests to feel immersed in the surrounding wilderness.
Accommodation features include:
• comfortable canvas safari tents
• private verandas overlooking the forest or river
• open dining and lounge areas beneath large trees
• a relaxed and informal safari atmosphere
The focus here is on wilderness and guiding rather than luxury design.
Safari Experience
Kitich Forest Camp is renowned for its guided walking safaris, which are among the best in Kenya.
Exploring the Matthews Range on foot allows guests to discover the landscape slowly, learning about the forest, wildlife, and Samburu traditions from experienced guides.
Activities may include:
• guided walking safaris through the forest
• exploring the Ngeng River valley
• birdwatching in the forest canopy
• cultural encounters with the Samburu community
• relaxing beside the river in camp
Because of the forest environment, the experience here feels more exploratory and intimate than the typical vehicle-based safari.
Wildlife
The Matthews Range supports wildlife adapted to forest and mountain habitats.
Animals that may be encountered include:
• elephant moving through the forest valleys
• leopard
• greater kudu
• bushbuck
• forest birds and raptors
The region is particularly rewarding for travellers interested in birdlife and forest ecosystems.
When to Visit
Kitich Forest Camp can be enjoyed throughout the year.
June – October
Dry season with excellent walking conditions.
December – March
Warm weather and clear mountain views.
April – May and November
Lush forest landscapes with fewer visitors.
Because tourism in the Matthews Range remains limited, the experience stays peaceful in every season.
Insider Tips
• Kitich is best suited to travellers who enjoy walking safaris and wilderness exploration.
• The forest environment creates a safari experience very different from Kenya’s open plains.
• Early morning walks along the river valley are often the most rewarding time of day.
• Combine Kitich with Sarara Camp or Sarara Treehouses to experience both sides of the Matthews Range.
Oloi Shorua Must-Do
Take a full-day guided walk through the forested valleys of the Matthews Range.
Do at least one long forest walk along the Ngeng River with a top guide.
Kitich is not about ticking off game drives. The real reason to stay here is to walk through the forested valleys of the Matthews Range, track signs along the riverbanks, listen to the birdlife in the canopy, and experience a part of Kenya that feels completely different from the savannah. That is what justifies coming here.
Oloi Shorua Recommendation
Stay at least three nights and use Kitich specifically for walking, not as a standard safari stop.
Kitich works best for travellers who value forest wilderness, serious guiding, and the rare chance to experience northern Kenya on foot.
Planning Your Safari
Many journeys combine Mathews Range with:
- Masai Mara Safari Lodges
- Samburu Safari Lodges
- Amboseli Safari Lodges
- Tsavo Safari Lodges
- Kenya Coast Lodges
- Masai Mara Conservancies
- Laikipia Safari Lodges
- Mathews Range Safari Lodges
You can also explore:
At Oloi Shorua we design bespoke safari journeys that combine the finest lodges across Africa’s most remarkable wildlife landscapes. Speak with us to begin planning your safari.