Plan Your Visit

When to visit

The Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Coastal weather is represented by two rainy seasons – a short rainy season in November and December and a long rainy season from April through June which starts sprinkles by end of March, with May being considered the wettest month.

Precipitation can affect forest trails, making some of them more challenging to traverse, so knowing the rain patterns can help you avoid the frustration of being unable to enjoy all that forest has to offer. The Indian Ocean coastline tends to be more humid that inland areas and average annual temperatures are generally in the lower to mid-80s degrees Fahrenheit (26-30 Celsius) during the day and lower to mid-70s degrees Fahrenheit (21-24 Celsius) at night.

But the forest is a beautiful destination no matter when you visit. For locations of activities and key forest features see the map by clicking here, or buy the official Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Map at Gede main forest gate.

Safety and Essential Tips

The Arabuko-Sokoke Forest is home to elephant and buffalo, so if you are walking, running or cycling take all precautions to avoid interaction with these species. Always follow rules and regulations prescribed for the forest and available at the entrance gate in Gede.

Night visits to the forest are not permitted, and you shall leave the forest or reach your campsite before 6pm.

It is forbidden by Kenyan law to use plastic bags in the country and plastic bottles in protected areas. Please bring your water in re-usable containers.

Don’t forget to take your rubbish out of the forest when you are finished with your picnic.

Dogs are not allowed in the forest.

You can enter the forest via three entrance gates – Gede (the main gate), Sokoke or Jilore.

You can pay entrance fees via mobile money – MPESA and get your ticket at Gede forest station.