Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve | Kenya Forest Safari Guides

Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve is a famous safari destination in coastal Kenya. It ranks amongst the top 36 global biodiversity hotspots and offers a beautiful and convenient natural ecosystem to visit. The reserve is well known for forest drives, camping, running and cycling, walking, picnics, bird watching, and bird photography. It is Africa’s second most important bird conservation site.  With over 230 species of birds and a high proportion of rare species, the forest shelters six globally threatened bird species, including Clarke’s weaver and Sokoke Scops owl. This African forest also hosts the three globally threatened mammals (Ader’s duiker, Sokoke bushy-tailed mongoose, and golden-rumped elephant-shrew) (90% of its population survives here). Buffalo, reptiles, and amphibians are also found in these enchanting woodlands. With over 100km (about 62.14 mi) of forest trails open for the public, Arabuko Sokoke Forest is the perfect place for forest drives. 

Arabuko Sokoke Forest Information & Facts

  • Arabuko Sokoke Forest is located in coastal Kenya. It lies inland between the coastal towns of Malinda and Kilifi and 110 km north of Mombasa.
  • It covers approximately 420 square kilometers, making it the largest coastal forest in East Africa.
  • Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve ranks amongst the top 36 global biodiversity hotspots.
  • The forest shelters six of the globally threatened bird species (East Coast Akalat, Amani Sunbird, Sokoke Scops Owl, Sokoke Pipit, Clarke’s Weaver, and Spotted Ground Thrush) and three globally threatened mammals (Ader’s duiker, Sokoke bushy-tailed mongoose and golden-rumped elephant-shrew
  • Due to its unique biodiversity and ecosystem, the forest is an Important Bird Area and a UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve.
  • The forest experiences a humid climate, with a mean annual temperature ranging from 22 to 34 degrees Celsius. Rainfall is around 500 mm per year.
  • The weather is represented by two rainy seasons: the short rainy season (November and December) and the long rainy season (April through June).
Akagera National Park zebras

Arabuko Sokoke Forest Safaris and Tours

Arabuko Sokoke Forest Activities

There are many refreshing activities you can undertake, including:

Forest Drives

With over 100km of forest trails open to the public, Arabuko Sokoke Forest is the perfect place for forest drives. It is advisable to use a 4×4 vehicle, as the roads can be rough.

Bird Watching & Photography

With over 230 species of birds and a high proportion of rare species, the forest offers the best environment for bird enthusiasts.

Nature Walks

A trained guide at Arabuko Sokoke Forest ensures visitors visit the right places, depending on their interests and physical capacity. The forest offers a relaxing experience.

Picknicks

Visitors enjoy picnics at selected sites in Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Reserve. However, they cannot set up temporary structures such as tents.

Best Time to Visit Arabuko Sokoke Forest 

The best time to visit Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Reserve is January to February and June to October, as it offers the best weather, wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and photography opportunities. However, the Forest Reserve is accessible all year. The best time for nature walks is during the cool of the day, early morning or late afternoon.

Kenya Birding safari

Arabuko Sokoke Forest General Safety Tips    

  • Be aware of weather forecasts and potential weather changes, especially when trails become muddy or slippery during the rainy season.
  • Ensure you are up to date with recommended vaccinations.
  • Keep a safe distance from wildlife to avoid disturbing them or putting yourself in danger.
  • Familiarize yourself with the area and plan your route before heading out.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for wildlife.
  • Get a professional tour guide; the Natures Wonderland Safaris

Arabuko Sokoke Forest Accommodation  

Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve does not have accommodations or hotels within the forest reserve. However, travelers can stay in several accommodations and hotels near Malindi and Watamu. Some of the hotels near Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve include:

  • Watamu Adventist Beach Resort
  • Hemingways Watamu
  • Kilili Baharini Resort & Spa
  • Mida Creek Nature Camp
  • Eco Villas Watamu
  • Distant Relatives Ecolodge & Backpackers

How to get to Arabuko Sokoke Forest 

  • By Road -Arabuko Sokoke Forest is approximately 8-10 hours from Nairobi. It is accessed by the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway (A109) and Malindi-Garsen Road (B8).
  • By Air – The nearest airstrip is Malindi Airport.
  • By Train – Visitors can access Arabuko Sokoke Forest from Nairobi to Mombasa. The nearest train station is Mombasa Terminus.
Birding safari

Arabuko Sokoke Forest FAQs 

Arabuko Sokoke Forest is located on Kenya’s coast, between Malindi and Kilifi, approximately 110 km (about 68.35 mi) north of Mombasa.

  • Forest Drives
  • Bird Watching and Bird Photography
  • Nature Walks
  • Picnics

Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve does not have accommodations or hotels. However, travelers can stay in several hotels near Malindi, Kilifi, and Watamu. 

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