Gedi ruins and Arabuko forest

Discover one of the most mysterious places on the Kenyan coast. This tour will take you to Gede Ruins, the remains of an ancient Swahili city hidden within the lush Arabuko Sokoke Forest. Combining history, culture and nature, this experience offers a unique opportunity to explore a lesser-known side of Kenya.

After being picked up from your hotel, you will travel to Gede Ruins, one of the most important archaeological sites near Malindi. Hidden for centuries within dense forest, this fascinating site continues to intrigue visitors with its mysterious past. As you walk among the remains of former houses, mosques and palaces, you will learn about the prosperous Swahili settlement that once played a significant role in trade along the East African coast.

The architecture of Gede reflects the rich heritage of Swahili culture, shaped by African, Arab and Persian influences. The stone structures and remnants of the town's infrastructure reveal how advanced and well-organised this settlement was before it was unexpectedly abandoned in the 17th century.

After lunch, you will continue with a walk through Arabuko Sokoke Forest, the largest remaining coastal forest in East Africa. This remarkable ecosystem is home to a wide variety of rare plants, birds and other wildlife, making it one of Kenya's most important natural areas.

The trail leads to a viewpoint overlooking the Whistling Duck Ponds. From here, you can admire the contrast between the vast green forest on one side and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean on the other. There will be free time to relax, enjoy the scenery and take memorable photographs.

At the end of the tour, you will return to your hotel.

The order of visits and the programme may be subject to change.