Why you should visit Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve

Why you should visit Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve : Activities at the 260-square-mile Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve are 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 types of snakes, flying handkerchief butterflies, and other amazing wildlife, like elephants, the timid Aders’ duiker (antelope), and an abundance of Sykes’ monkeys and yellow baboons, may all be found there.

Activities available in Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Reserve

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.

Over 30 kilometres of driving routes that pass through various forest kinds while you enjoy a refreshing drive beneath the forest canopy.

Mida Creek

In less than a km lies Mida Creek, a stunning tidal inlet home to six different species of mangrove trees, near the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest entrance. Many migratory birds winter in the Creek, including the Greater Flamingo, Terek Sandpiper, Sand Plover, and Crab-plover. This is the location of the Mida Creek Boardwalk and Bird Hide, a facility that raises money for local children’s education and forest protection. To get up close to these migratory birds, use the bird hide located here and the boardwalk.

Birdwatching

The reserve is primarily a birdwatching site, home to a number of endemic and near-endemic species. Although you won’t see any of the large safari animals there, the woodland is a lovely spot to spend a few hours and a pleasant escape from the seaside heat.

It is also home to over 270 different species of birds, including the spotted ground thrush and the endangered Sokoke pipit. Nestled in the abundant birdlife of the Miombo trees are lovely seasonal pools. Nature trails and 4WD tracks 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

The cold forest air encourages the butterfly’s reproduction, hence being a tropical forest, it is home to a large number of butterflies. This location in Kenya is perfect for those who enjoy watching butterflies. It is here that one can view several flying handkerchief butterflies.

Camping

Three fantastic campgrounds 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 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.

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.

Picnicking

The nature preserve 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 trip, you’ll come across a lot of birds and butterflies. As you enjoy the forest canopy, the only heat you will feel in your body is your own because the forest is so much cooler.

The Best time to Visit Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve

Any time of year can be used to arrange a visit to the Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve. Heavy rain, however, may make driving and hiking in the forest difficult. Although there is rain along the shore all year round, November, April, and May are the least suitable months because of rainfall peaks.

All year long, Arabuko Sokoke is a birdwatcher’s dream come true. Many of the more unique species found in the forest are permanent residents and can be seen year-round. From November through April, the migrating species are added to the mix. The best months to experience both short and lengthy rains are November and April; nevertheless, intense rain might make it difficult to go birdwatching.

The ideal months to drive and go hiking in the forest are July through September and January through February (little rainfall).