Arabuko Sokoke Forest

The endangered Golden-rumped Sengi, also known as the Elephant-shrew

Arabuko Sokoke Forest is a unique and precious ecosystem located in the coastal region of Kenya. Travel Tuesdays explores the largest fragment of coastal forest left in East Africa, covering an area of 420 square kilometers. The forest is a biodiversity hotspot, with over 400 species of birds, 260 species of butterflies, and 40 species of mammals, many of which are endemic to the region. The forest is also home to a variety of flora, including rare and endangered plant species.

The Arabuko Sokoke Forest is an important conservation area, and efforts have been made to protect and preserve the forest and its wildlife. The forest is managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), with support from various conservation organizations and the local community.

One of the most unique and interesting aspects of the Arabuko Sokoke Forest is the presence of the Sokoke Scops Owl, a rare and endangered species of owl that is found only in the forest. The owl symbolizes the forest and has become a popular attraction for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Sokoke Scops Owl, a rare and endangered species of owl that is found only in this forest

The forest is also home to various primates, including the endangered Golden-rumped Sengi, the Elephant-shrew, the endemic Sokoke Bushbaby, the yellow baboon, and the Sykes monkey. These primates are important indicators of the health of the forest ecosystem.

The Arabuko Sokoke Forest is also home to several communities, including the Giriama and the Akaa. These communities have lived in the forest for generations and have developed a deep understanding of the forest and its resources. They have also played a critical role in the conservation of the forest, working with the KWS and conservation organizations to protect the forest and its wildlife.

Traditional Giryama residence, the thatched hut is cool even on hot days.

The Arabuko Sokoke Forest faces several threats, including habitat destruction, poaching, and climate change. The forest is also at risk from the increasing human population in the surrounding areas, which puts pressure on the forest resources. To address these threats, the KWS and conservation organizations are working to raise awareness of the importance of the forest and to involve the local communities in conservation efforts.

In conclusion, the Arabuko Sokoke Forest is a unique and precious ecosystem that is of great importance to Kenya and the world. Its biodiversity, including the endemic Sokoke Scops Owl, Golden-rumped Sengi or Elephant shrew, and Sokoke Bushbaby, make it a valuable conservation area. The involvement of local communities in conservation efforts is critical to ensuring the preservation of the forest and its wildlife for generations to come. Follow Travel Tuesdays for weekly reviews of your favourite destinations.

Local communities in conservation efforts put up a boardwalk in the forest 


Location: Arabuko Sokoke National Reserve, Malindi, Kenya

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