Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve
Malaria & Safety
Kenya Parks
Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of many guidebooks to African destinations, including the DK Eyewitness Guide to Kenya.
Safety
In our opinion, Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve is a very safe destination, especially if visited on an organized tour. For more information about traveling in Kenya in general, we recommend checking the government travel advisories listed on the ‘Safety & Security – Kenya’ page (see link below).
Malaria & Vaccinations
Seek advice from your doctor about vaccinations before coming to Kenya. Arabuko Sokoke lies in the coastal region of Kenya and malaria is present. It is advisable to take antimalarials. Other precautions are covering up in the evening and using mosquito repellent (those containing DEET are most effective). Malaria risk is highest in the peaks of the rainy seasons from April to May and October to November.
Wildlife Viewing
Wildlife viewing in Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve is very safe. Elephant and buffalo densities are low and you can only do forest walks accompanied by a guide who will be alert to the presence of large wildlife and know how to deal with an encounter. There are snakes, so hikers should stay on the trails to avoid being bitten. Encounters are rare though. For more information, please read the 'Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions' below.