Kenyan Coast
The Kenyan coast is a world on its own. The city of Mombasa, is a much more relaxed place than Nairobi. With its sun-scorched, colonnaded streets, this is the quintessential tropical port – steamy and unbelievably dilapidated. It’s fun to shop here, stroll the old city’s alleys, or visit Fort Jesus.
Mombasa is an island, to the north and south of the island are superb beaches and wonderful resorts. The south coast is more popular for tourism. Due to the developed resort area of Diani Beach, offering luxury resorts and quieter beaches.
You can certainly enjoy a relaxing time at a beach resort. But, there’s a lot more to the coast than recliners, swimming pools and scrumptious meals. Most obviously, the beaches are the launch pad for one of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world. With rented equipment, you can do some spectacular dives, but even with a simple snorkel and mask, which are easily obtained, you can discover what really is another world. The two most spectacular areas are enclosed in marine national parks, around Watamu and Malindi, and at the island of Wasini.
The Kenyan coast has ruins of forts, mosques, tombs and even one or two whole towns. Some of these – including Fort Jesus, the old town of Lamu and the ruined city of Gedi – are already on the tourist circuit. However there are dozens more that have hardly been cleared, these make for compelling excursions if you’re adventurous. The string of islands which run up the coast – Wasini, Funzi, Chale, Lamu, Manda, Pate and Kiwaiyu – are all very much worth visiting. Apart from their beach and ocean attractions, most of them have some archeological interest.
highlights
Stunning White Sandy Beaches
It’s no surprise that Kenya’s beaches are famous. The stunning soft white sand in contrast with the turquoise sea is an attraction in itself. There’s no perfect place for the ultimate relaxing beach holiday.
Watersports & Activities
Along the Kenyan coast, there is a plethora of watersports and activities available. From snorkelling, to scuba diving, kite surfing, banana boating, glass bottom boat excursions, kayaking and sailing. There’s really so much to do, that if you’re not too keen on lazing on the beach, any of these wonderful activities with beautiful marine life will be sure to keep you entertained.
Fishing
Fishing at the coast can be done in two ways, one is with the local fishermen, and the other is an adrenaline filled experience of deep sea fishing. For those looking for a challenge, trying to land marlin and sailfish could be on the list! Each experience is unique and you’ll have the right people with you through the experience to ensure that you have a wonderful time.
Mangroves Forest Boat Ride
Further south on the coast, Msambweni is located near the Mangrove Forest. Enjoy a boat ride through the forest. The boat ride can only be done during the high tide, and don’t forget your swimming costumes, you may want to jump into the water for a swim.
History & Culture
Along the Kenyan coast, there’s so much rich history and a deep rooted culture. Lamu Town is Kenya’s oldest continuously inhabited town. As trade passed along the Kenyan coast, settlers stopped along the way, building forts and settlements. Guests interested in history and archeological sites can be assured to be satisfied with the ancient ruins dating back to the late 13th or early 14th centuries.
Shimba Hills National Park
Located only 60km from Mombasa, this is one of the largest coastal forests in East Africa, rich in flora and fauna. Well known for its large elephant population, its excellent birding opportunities, It’s the only place in Kenya to see the Sable antelope. A great diversity of Kenya’s plant species are found here, many of which are endangered.
Due to the thick nature of the forest, game viewing is not as rewarding as on the savannahs, as many animals spend their time deep in the forest. However this is not necessarily a bad thing, as it makes the wildlife encounters that you do have, that much more spectacular.
The magnificent 21m high Sheldrick Falls are in Shimba Hills; the late David Sheldrick, founder of the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, once explored this area, whilst flying over the area he discovered a hidden waterfall within the Shimba Hills National Reserve, and subsequently had the falls named after him.
Horse Riding
An exciting way to make your way across the beach, or through the Kaya forest, Horse Riding is a fun activity that can be enjoyed.
Skydiving
One of the most adrenaline filled activities that one can experience is Skydiving. Diani beach offers one of the most scenic skydive experiences. A 15 minute scenic flight over the azure blue waters and white sandy beaches, get ready to jump at 12,000 feet! Skydiving in Diani, evey landing is a beach landing.
Bio-Ken Snake Farm
Located just a few minutes’ drive from Watamu’s hotel resorts, Bio-Ken Snake Farm houses the largest collection of snakes in East Africa and is open to the public. The 35-year-old research centre also offers snake removal and snake bite antivenom services. Highly-experienced guides at Bio-Ken Snake Farm can answer any questions you have about reptiles, and will provide you with an entertaining and informative tour of the farm.
Best time to visit
Though climate change has made the weather in Kenya slightly fickle, the seasons are long and short rains followed by hot and dry weather.
The rainy season makes the coastal region more humid. The long rains are from April and May, sometimes extending into early June. The short rains are in October.
November through January is the hottest time at the coast, while the months of June, July and August are slightly cooler.
