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COMMUNITY-BASED NATURE EXCURSION

Kipepeo Butterfly Project

Discover a community-based enterprise near Gede and Arabuko-Sokoke Forest that links butterfly farming, local livelihoods and forest conservation.

Visitors observing butterflies inside a netted butterfly enclosure.

KIPEPEO BUTTERFLY PROJECT

What is the Kipepeo Butterfly Project?

Kipepeo, meaning butterfly in Swahili, is a community-based enterprise supporting people living around Arabuko-Sokoke Forest. Its work is designed to demonstrate a tangible connection between conservation and livelihoods.

KIPEPEO BUTTERFLY PROJECT

How butterfly farming works

Kipepeo coordinates production and marketing of butterfly and moth pupae and other live insects. Its official information says insects are bred and raised on farms from wild parent stock through training and monitoring; pupae hatch for display in insect parks globally.

KIPEPEO BUTTERFLY PROJECT

Community livelihoods and conservation

By creating income opportunities from nature-based products, Kipepeo gives participating communities an economic reason to protect forest habitat. The project describes community producer groups, including butterfly farmers, as involved in its nature-based enterprise and forest-protection work.

KIPEPEO BUTTERFLY PROJECT

What visitors can discover

Kipepeo’s marketplace is located at Gedi National Monument in Kilifi County. A visit can be an opportunity to learn about the project’s relationship between butterflies, livelihoods and forest conservation. Confirm current visitor access and arrangements before travelling.

KIPEPEO BUTTERFLY PROJECT

Combine your visit

Kipepeo can be discussed alongside Gede Ruins, a historic coastal Swahili settlement, and Arabuko-Sokoke Forest, a major coastal forest with distinctive wildlife, birdlife and conservation value. These are separate experiences; Settimo can help discuss suitable combinations subject to access and practical arrangements.

Gede RuinsArabuko-Sokoke Forest

KIPEPEO BUTTERFLY PROJECT

Practical planning

Opening hours, fees and booking arrangements are not stated here because they should be confirmed for your date. Ask Settimo to discuss a suitable coastal excursion and current practical arrangements.

KIPEPEO BUTTERFLY PROJECT

Sources and further reading

Read more from Kipepeo Project’s official website, including its information about the forest and community work.

Kipepeo Project official websiteKipepeo Project — The Forest

KIPEPEO BUTTERFLY PROJECT

Interested in exploring Kipepeo and the Gede area?

Settimo can help discuss suitable coastal excursions around your stay.

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