Arabuko Sokoke Forest is a tropical forest located in Kilifi County, on the coast of Kenya. It is a biodiversity hotspot and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The forest covers an area of about 420 square kilometers and is the largest remaining indigenous coastal forest in East Africa.
The forest is named after two of the major rivers in the area, the Arabuko and Sokoke rivers, which flow through the forest and empty into the Indian Ocean. The Arabuko Sokoke Forest is an important bird area, with over 260 bird species recorded, including six globally threatened species such as the Sokoke Scops Owl, Amani Sunbird, and Clarke’s Weaver. The forest also provides a habitat for other wildlife such as the Aders’ Duiker, Yellow Baboon, Sykes Monkey, and African Elephant.
Tourists can explore the Arabuko Sokoke Forest by taking guided walks through the forest trails. The forest is also home to several butterfly species and one can spot different species of butterflies while exploring the forest. The Arabuko Sokoke Forest is also an important site for butterfly research in Africa. There are several butterfly species unique to this forest that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
Visitors can also take part in bird watching activities or enjoy game drives and guided tours in nearby national parks and reserves such as the Tsavo East National Park, Shimba Hills National Reserve, and the Mombasa Marine National Park.
While in Kilifi, tourists can stay at the GK Palms Resort, a luxurious hotel located on the coast of Kilifi. The resort offers visitors a serene environment to relax and unwind after exploring the Arabuko Sokoke Forest and other attractions in the area. The hotel has a restaurant that serves local and international cuisine and a swimming pool where visitors can cool off and enjoy the stunning views of the Indian Ocean. GK Palms Resort is the perfect destination for tourists looking to experience the natural beauty of Kilifi and its surroundings.
