Mombasa: Gede Ruins and Arabuko Sokoke Forest Tour
ID: GYG1195512-1834518
Category:
Country: Kenya
Duration:
05:00 hours
Description
Discover the rich cultural history and biodiversity of Kenya’s coast on a day tour to Gede Ruins and Arabuko Sokoke Forest. Explore ancient Swahili heritage and a natural ecosystem.
Begin your journey at the mysterious Gede Ruins, a 12th-century Swahili city hidden deep within the forest near the Indian Ocean. Once a thriving trading center connected to Arabia, India, and China, Gede was mysteriously abandoned in the 17th century.
Walk through the well-preserved remains of mosques, palaces, coral-stone houses, and ancient wells as your knowledgeable guide explains Swahili architecture, daily life, and the legends surrounding the city’s disappearance. Learn about the Indian Ocean trade routes and how Gede played a key role in early coastal civilization.
After exploring Gede, continue to Arabuko Sokoke Forest, East Africa’s largest remaining coastal forest and a globally recognized biodiversity hotspot. Accompanied by an experienced local guide, enjoy a guided nature walk through different forest habitats, including dense woodland and open thicket.
The forest is home to rare and endemic species such as the Sokoke scops owl, Clarke’s weaver, Amani sunbird, forest butterflies, reptiles, and medicinal plants. You may also spot monkeys and hear stories about the forest’s conservation efforts and community involvement.
Highlights
- Step back in time as you explore the ancient Gede Ruins
- Discover the rich cultural history and biodiversity of Kenya’s coast
- Walk through the well-preserved remains of mosques and palaces
- Enjoy a guided nature walk through the Arabuko Sokoke Forest
- Spot rare and endemic species like the Sokoke scops owl
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for walking
Bring insect repellent and sunscreen
Carry a camera for photography
Be prepared for a full day of exploration
INCLUDED
- Hotel pickup & drop-off
- Guided tour of Gede Ruins
- Guided nature walk in Arabuko Sokoke Forest
- Knowledgeable local guide
NOT INCLUDED
- Meals and drinks
- Personal expenses
- Tips
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.
