Places of Interest

Why not take advantage of our local knowledge and experience and allow us to introduce you to the many varied activities and places to visit on the Coast

Watamu National Marine Park

We have already touched on the beauty of the beaches lining the Marine Park but it is the spectacular ancient coral reefs that have gained Watamu National Marine Park the reputation of being one of the best snorkelling and dive spots in the world. The Marine Park boasts more than 600 species of marine life from the rainbow of tropical fish, the elegant seahorses and starfish to the more imposing shark and manta rays. Let us show you how to have them literally eating out of your hand!

For those of you who prefer life on, not under the water don’t despair there’s something for everyone. The traditional Arabic dhow are still used by local fisherman who supplement their living taking the more adventurous sailing the coastline, these beautiful crafts , though not exactly built for comfort, are the best way to view seasonal visitors such as migrating dolphins and whale shark. Moor of off one of the many coral islands and relax while your ‘captain’ BBQs fish straight from the sea!

Explore the rock pools swimming with marine life trapped at low tide or simply sunbathe. The choice is yours!

Arabuko Sokoke National Forest Reserve

The nearby Arabuko Sokoke National Forest Reserve, the largest and most intact coastal forest in East Africa is a bird watchers paradise, ranked by Birdlife International as one of the most important forests for the conservation of threatened birds on mainland Africa, hosting many indigenous endangered species, mammal as well as birdlife. Guided foot safaris take you along the Forest tracks to hidden waterholes where you may be lucky enough to see the endearing Golden rumped Elephant Shrew the larger African Civets, Forest Elephant as well as charming monkeys and baboons.

The Tree House or Platform is a wonderful view point from which to bird watch over the Sand Quarry area, which is swampy in the wet season and the perfect place to witness the sunset over this pre historic landscape. The brave a heart can even stay the night and watch the sun rise!

Mida Creek Reserve

Take a traditional dugout canoe for a closer view the spectacular birdlife feeding on the mudflats on the Mida Creek Reserve, East Africa’s largest mangrove creek. Regular visitors include Flamingo, Storks and Egrets as well as many colourful local birds. Drift among the Mangrove forests with their spectacular looking root systems providing both a home and nutrients for young coral, oysters, crabs and shrimp during low tide, and hundreds of species of fish feeding during high tide. Stay a while and enjoy a drink while watching the sunset over this magical place.

The Ruins of Gede

Well worth a visit are the ruins of Gedi where between the13th to 17th century a thriving Swahili community lived and traded on the jungle coast. Walk through tall shady trees into the past and the lives of the Muslim inhabitants who lived and traded with people from all over the world. Excavated since 1927 their Great Mosque, Palace and their homes and tombs have now been revealed to us.

The museum and Conservation centre house not only artefacts left behind by these villagers but a growing colony of monkeys to entertain you.

Malindi               

Only 23km away is the bustling old Colonial town of Malindi with its diverse cultures and nightlife, known for its culinary prowess with its restaurants, hotels, coffeehouses and other eating places offering a wide range of cuisines ranging from local flavours to international cuisines. A visit to Woodcarvers specializing in local wood artefacts and very unique furniture, including the famous Lamu beds, is something to be savoured by all visitors.

Malindi has its own airport with regular flights to/from Nairobi, Mombasa and Lamu.

                                                                                                                     Nyari - Hells Kitchen

Northwest of Malindi is the spectacular Marafa Depression, locally known as Nyari and popularly known as Hell's Kitchen. An extensive series of sandstone gorges and sheer gullies which is constantly changing as rains and winds cut new channels to expose many layers of coloured sandstone revealing whites, pinks, oranges, and deep crimsons, making the gorge particularly striking at sundown, when the tones of the ribbed sandstone gullies are highlighted and mirrored by those of the setting sun.The area is sacred and services are held regularly in the gorge. Many village descendants come back here for their funeral services when it is their time. The families will also travel there for the service and celebrations following. These can go on for many days.

From the very top of the gorge, you can get a spectacular view across the landscape and Tsavo safari park can be seen on the horizon.

It is worth noting that good walking shoes, trousers and sensible clothing will enhance your visit to this area. If you have mobility problems, it is best viewing from the top of the gorge.