The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has urged Kenyans visiting Karura Forest to remain cautious and stick to designated paths following reports of a python spotted inside the popular recreational site.
In a statement released Thursday evening, KFS acknowledged receiving concerns from members of the public after a photo circulating online allegedly showed a large python in the forest.
The agency noted that while pythons have been seen in Karura before—specifically in 2019 and 2022—the authenticity of the latest sighting and photo is yet to be confirmed.
“As a precautionary measure, visitors are advised to walk or jog only on designated tracks. Any sighting should be reported immediately to KFS Forest Rangers stationed at the various gates,” the statement read.
KFS further warned pet owners to keep their animals on leashes at all times while in the forest. The agency also pledged to work closely with relevant government bodies to find lasting solutions to such incidents.
Clips shared on social media appeared to show the snake slithering across a path leading to Lily Lake within the forest. Karura, located on the border of Nairobi and Kiambu counties, is a popular spot for runners, picnickers, and nature lovers, with main entrances along Kiambu Road and Limuru Road.
This is not the first python sighting in Karura. In 2019, a black python caused panic among visitors before Friends of Karura, the community group managing the forest, confirmed it was an African rock python—non-venomous and generally harmless unless provoked.
