Call /WhatsApp: +255 788 738494
Call /WhatsApp: +255 788 738494
Located along Kenya’s Indian Ocean coastline, near the towns of Malindi and Watamu, Arabuko Sokoke National Park is a rare and unique ecosystem. As the largest remaining section of coastal dry forest in East Africa, it offers a special blend of biodiversity, conservation, and tranquility. Though often overlooked in favor of beach resorts or savannah safaris, this park is a hidden treasure for bird watchers, nature lovers, and eco-tourism enthusiasts.
Arabuko Sokoke Forest covers approximately 420 square kilometers, with the national park occupying a smaller portion dedicated to the most sensitive and protected zones. The area is jointly managed for both conservation and sustainable use, with strong involvement from local communities.
This forest is one of the last refuges of its kind in Africa, offering habitat to a number of rare and endemic species. It is classified as a biodiversity hotspot due to its high concentration of species that cannot be found elsewhere.
Arabuko Sokoke National Park is a crucial conservation area for both flora and fauna. It is best known for being home to the endangered Sokoke scops owl, a bird species found only in this forest. Other notable endemic species include the Ader’s duiker (a small forest antelope) and the Golden-rumped elephant shrew, the largest of all elephant shrews and also found nowhere else in the world.
The park is a haven for bird watchers, with over 230 bird species recorded. In addition to the Sokoke scops owl, other rare birds include Clarke’s weaver and the East Coast akalat. This makes Arabuko Sokoke one of the top birding destinations in Kenya, especially for those seeking to observe coastal and forest-dwelling species.
Reptiles, butterflies, and insects are also richly represented, and while sightings of larger mammals are limited, the forest supports populations of monkeys, bush babies, and forest cats.
Nature walks are the most popular way to explore Arabuko Sokoke National Park. There are several well-marked trails that allow visitors to walk through different forest types, ranging from Brachystegia woodland to dense Cynometra thickets. Guided walks with trained local experts enhance the experience by helping spot hidden wildlife and explaining the ecological importance of the forest.
Biking is another option for more active visitors, and photography enthusiasts will enjoy the forest’s diverse textures, colors, and species.
Arabuko Sokoke is easily accessible by road and is located just a short drive from Watamu, Malindi, and Kilifi, making it ideal for a day trip from the coast. The park is open year-round, but mornings are best for spotting birds and wildlife before the heat of the day.
Arabuko Sokoke National Park is a peaceful and ecologically vital destination that offers a completely different experience from Kenya’s typical safari parks. It is ideal for those interested in conservation, endemic species, and quiet time in nature. Whether you’re a birder, researcher, or simply curious about Kenya’s lesser-known treasures, this forest park offers a deep connection to the natural world along the country’s coastal edge
