Gede Ruins National Monument| Kenya Coastal Safaris Guide

Gede Ruins National Monument

Gede Ruins is an archaeological gem nestled within the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest on Kenya’s coast. This ancient Swahili town offers a captivating glimpse into a once-thriving civilization known for its remarkable advancements. As you wander through the remnants of mosques, palaces, and residential zones. The ruins will take you back in time to an era when Gede was a bustling hub of trade and culture. Gedi Ruins is not only rich in history but also surrounded by vibrant wildlife, making it perfect for both history lovers and nature enthusiasts. Guided tours provide insightful narratives that breathe life into the stones and structures around you. You also get opportunities to engage with the local community and enrich your experience. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a serene escape into history, Gede Ruins promises an unforgettable visit that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list.

https://museums.or.ke/gede-museum/

Facts about Gede Ruins 

  • The ruins date back to as early as the 12th century.
  • It is situated between Malindi and Mombasa in Kenya, within the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest.
  • The site includes a walled town with standing stone structures of mosques, a palace, and numerous houses.
  • Gede was an important trade center along the Indian Ocean trade routes.
  • The site was rediscovered by colonialists in the 1920s.
  • The Gede ruins are now a protected national monument under the care of the National Museums of Kenya.
  • The surrounding Arabuko-Sokoke Forest is also a sacred site for traditional rituals and sacrifices for the local community.

Gede Ruins Attractions  Safaris and Tours

Gede Ruins Activities 

Guided Tours

Visitors can take guided tours of the Gede Ruins led by knowledgeable local guides. The guides can provide valuable insights into the history and significance of the archaeological site. Natures wonderland Safaris also offers a guided of the ruins. Our services are available for everyone no matter where you are.

Exploring the Ruins

Visitors can freely explore the extensive ruins, which cover an area of 45 acres enclosed by an outer wall. Key features within the inner 18-acre core include 2 mosques, a palace, 4 large pillar tombs, and several other houses and mosques. The ruins demonstrate sophisticated Swahili architecture, including a grid-like street plan, decorated doorways, and stone houses.

Museum and Exhibits

The site has a museum that displays artifacts found during excavations of the Gede Ruins. Visitors can also see maps and learn about the layout and history of the ancient town.

Nature Walks

The Gede Ruins are located within the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest, allowing for nature walks and wildlife viewing. There are trails and a treehouse that offer views of the ruins and surrounding forest. Gede Ruins

Gede Ruins Features and Attractions 

Beach Activities

The Gedi ruins cover an area of 45 acres (18 hectares), divided by an outer and inner wall. Inside the inner wall are the remains of: 2 mosques, A palace (the sheikh’s house), 4 large pillar tombs, 4 other houses, 3 other mosques. The ruins also feature distinctive Swahili coastal architecture, including stone pillar tombs.

Nature and Sacred Sites

The Arabuko-Sokoke Forest surrounding the ruins is considered a sacred site by the local community because of the large baobab trees and other indigenous flora within the ruins. The ruins are also home to various wildlife like Sykes’ monkeys and birds.

Museum and Artifacts

The on-site museum displays artifacts from the ruins, such as coins, lamps, cups, and pottery.

Viewpoints

There is a tree house that provides an elevated view of the ruins. Climbing the tree house costs a small fee (around 50 Kenyan shillings).

Best Time to Visit Gede Ruins

The best time to visit the Gede Ruins is during the dry seasons, which are from July to October and January to March. The weather is generally warm and sunny during these periods. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration. The rainy seasons, from November to December and April to June, can make the site more challenging to navigate and may temporarily close some attractions.

Gede Ruins National Monument

Safety Guides and Tips 

  • Stay on marked trails and paths to avoid getting lost or encountering dangerous wildlife.
  • Wear proper footwear like hiking shoes or boots to navigate the uneven, slippery terrain.
  • Bring sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the ruins are largely unshaded.
  • Stay with your group, and don’t wander off alone, especially in more remote areas.
  • Be cautious of wildlife like snakes, monkeys, and other animals, and keep a safe distance.
  • Hire a professional guide to take you round the ruins.

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