- Country
- Kenya
- Region
- Kilifi County, north coast of Kenya
- Type
- Beach Holiday
- Best months to visit
- Jul–Oct, Dec–Mar
Overview
Watamu is a laid-back village on Kenya’s north coast, set around coves and coral islets inside a protected marine national park. It has a long association with Italian travellers and a relaxed, small-scale feel.
Nearby are the ruins of Gede, a medieval Swahili town hidden in the forest, and Arabuko-Sokoke, the largest remaining coastal forest in East Africa.
- Watamu Marine National Park
- Gede Ruins
- Mida Creek mangroves
- Turtle conservation
What you'll see
Coral gardens, sea turtles (a local turtle rescue works here), dolphins, and humpback whales offshore from around July to October.
Wildlife you may see
- Sea turtle
- Dolphin
- Whale shark
- Humpback whale
Things to do
- 01
Snorkelling in the marine park
Glass-bottom boat trips to the coral gardens.
- 02
Mida Creek
Canoe or walk through mangroves rich in birdlife.
- 03
Gede Ruins
Explore a 13th-century Swahili town in the forest.
- 04
Whale watching (seasonal)
Look for humpback whales between July and October.
Best time
- Jan: Great time
- Feb: Great time
- Mar: Great time
- Apr: Possible
- May: Possible
- Jun: Possible
- Jul: Great time
- Aug: Great time
- Sep: Great time
- Oct: Great time
- Nov: Possible
- Dec: Great time
December to March and July to October.
Getting there
Fly to Malindi (about 1 hour from Nairobi), then 30 minutes by road.
Where to stay
Luxury
Boutique beach houses and small luxury hotels.
We'll suggest camps and lodges that fit your dates and budget.
Comfort
Beach resorts on the coves.
We'll suggest camps and lodges that fit your dates and budget.
Budget
Guesthouses and self-catering cottages.
We'll suggest camps and lodges that fit your dates and budget.
