Activities to do at Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve : Activities at the 260-square-mile Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve which is located in Kilifi County, on Kenya’s coast. In addition to a large variety of butterfly species, the forest is home to about 20% of Kenya’s bird species. About 270 different bird species, 33 different species of snakes, flying handkerchief butterflies, and some amazing Kenya wildlife, like elephants, the timid Aders’ duiker (antelope), and an abundance of Sykes’ monkeys and yellow baboons, can all be found there. Activities available in Arabuko-Sokoke include the following:
Forest walk
For those who enjoy the outdoors, there are lovely boardwalks and trails. Take a stroll through the woodland to get a nice escape from the normal sounds of the city and to reconnect with nature. The finest vibes here come from the sounds of the birds and the refreshing woodland air. There is a system of designated walking pathways. Savour the canopy of the forest.
Mida Creek
Less than a kilometre separates the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest entrance and Mida Creek, a stunning tidal inlet home to six different varieties of mangrove trees. A significant wintering area for migratory birds, such as Greater Flamingos, Terek Sandpipers, Sand Plovers, and Crab-plovers, is the Creek. The Mida Creek Boardwalk and Bird Hide is a structure that raises money for local children’s education and forest conservation. To get closer to these migratory birds, take the boardwalk and make advantage of the bird hide located here.
Mida Creek is a naturally occurring entry to the coast located around 5 km south of Watamu. It is distinguished from the surrounding environment by its distinct vegetation and fauna, which together form a unique ecosystem. Because Mida Creek is home to one of the greatest mangrove ecosystems in the world—there are nine types and thirty-three species of algae—UNESCO has declared the area as a Biosphere Reserve. Mida Creek is Africa’s second-largest ornithological refuge, after the Arabuko Sokoke woodland. According to a study, the nearby village communities benefit greatly from the mangrove forest and other marine resources as an economic, ecological, and environmental resource. The forest yields coal and firewood, as well as building materials for homes and boats. Mangrove products are also used in the manufacturing of furniture, tanning material, and pharmaceutical and medical purposes.
Birdwatching
Primarily a birding safari in Kenya destination, the reserve is home to a number of endemic and near-endemic species. While the woodland is a delightful spot to spend a few hours and a great escape from the seaside heat, don’t expect to see any of the large kenya safari animals there. Around 270 different bird species can be seen there, including the endangered Sokoke pipit and spotted ground thrush. Nestled amidst the bird-filled Miombo forests are stunning seasonal lakes. Trails for 4WD vehicles and nature trails wind through the forest from the park’s four entrances. The Kararacha entrance leads to the bird trails at Kararacha Pools and Spinetail Way, which are 16km south of the main entry. The Whistling Duck Pools are a favourite hangout for grebes, open-billed storks, and whistling ducks. A trail leads there from the Mida entrance. From the main entrance, a short trail heads north to the Treehouse, a great spot to watch elephants drinking from a nearby lake. You can also see elephants on the 4WD Elephant Track.
Butterfly watching
Being a tropical forest, it is home to a huge number of butterflies since the chilly air in the forest supports their reproduction. For those who like to watch butterflies, this site is ideal safari in kenya for butterflies watching. Views of multiple flying handkerchief butterflies can be had here. Being a tropical forest, it is home to a large number of butterflies, as the cool forest air promotes butterfly reproduction. This is the best Kenya safari destination for anyone who enjoys watching butterflies. Here, one may witness several flying handkerchief butterflies.
Activities to do at Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve : Camping
Three fantastic campsites are located within the reserve: the official campsite, the towering tree platforms, and the Nyari Cliff, where you can enjoy a breathtaking sunrise. Particularly during the dry season when the weather is conducive to camping, camping here is incredibly rewarding. You will be rewarded by the most amazing kenya safari camping of your dreams by the natural surroundings. Enough firewood is available for cooking, and the chilly atmosphere allows you to fully experience the woodland atmosphere.
Activities to do at Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve : Cycling
The forest’s varied pathways, shaded areas, and laid-back atmosphere make it the perfect place for a leisurely bike ride or picnic. Along with exploring this forest’s secret on a pedal bike and taking in some fresh air, you may also have a picnic here.
Activities to do at Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve : Picnicking
The woodland is more than just a wonderful location and picnic area for people who enjoy having picnics. As long as you drive here, you can enjoy a fantastic picnic with your loved ones because the park permits it.
Running
Those who enjoy running and other physical sports have benefited from the lovely trails. While strolling through the forest, you can run on one of the long or short trails. Along the safari trip, you’ll come across a lot of birds and butterflies. As you appreciate the forest canopy, the forest is so much cooler that the only heat you will feel in your body is your own.
When to visit
The Forest of Arabuko-Sokoke The two rainy seasons that characterise coastal weather are the short one, which occurs in November and December, and the long one, which lasts from April through June and begins with sprinkles by the end of March. May is thought to be the wettest month. Understanding the patterns of rain will help you avoid becoming frustrated when you can’t take advantage of everything the forest has to offer because precipitation can influence forest pathways and make some of them more difficult to cross. Average yearly temperatures along the Indian Ocean coastline are typically lower to mid-80s degrees Fahrenheit (26–30 degrees Celsius) during the day and lower to mid-70s degrees Fahrenheit (21–24 degrees Celsius) at night. The coastline tends to be more humid than interior locations.
However, anytime of year is a great time to visit the forest. You can purchase the official Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Map at the main forest gate in Gede, or view the map by clicking here to view the locations of the main forest features and activities.
