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Destination guide
Arabuko-Sokoke Forest: the complete guide
Arabuko-Sokoke is the largest remaining fragment of coastal forest in East Africa, a dense patch of woodland just behind the beaches of Watamu and Malindi. It protects several globally threatened birds and unusual mammals, including the golden-rumped elephant shrew, and offers guided walks that feel a world away from the beach.
Here is what to see in Arabuko-Sokoke, when to visit and how to plan a walk.
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Tours featuring Arabuko Sokoke Forest
01
Why visit Arabuko-Sokoke
Arabuko-Sokoke contains three types of forest: Brachystegia woodland, Cynometra thicket and mixed forest, each with its own plants and animals. It is a Biosphere Reserve and one of the most important sites for forest birds on the East African coast.
The forest is easy to visit from Watamu. Guided walks follow set trails, and local guides know where to find the shy species that live here.
02
What to do in Arabuko-Sokoke
Guided forest walks
Walk through woodland with a local guide, looking for monkeys, birds and butterflies.
Birdwatching
Look for Sokoke scops owl, Clarke's weaver, Amani sunbird and Sokoke pipit.
Night walks
Look for bushbabies and the forest's shy nocturnal animals.
Elephant shrew
Search for the golden-rumped elephant shrew, found only along the coastal forests of Kenya.
03
Best time to visit
December to March
Great
Drier, with easy walking.
July to October
Good
Cooler and drier.
April to June
Green/Wet
Heavy rain, with muddy trails but more activity.
04
How to get to Arabuko-Sokoke
From Watamu
The forest is about 15 to 20 minutes away.
Guides
You must visit with a licensed guide.
05
Combining the forest with the coast
06
Frequently asked questions
What is special about Arabuko-Sokoke?
It protects rare birds and mammals found nowhere else, including the golden-rumped elephant shrew.
Do I need a guide?
Yes. Walks are led by licensed local guides.
How long does a walk take?
Typically two to four hours.
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