Three days on the Kilifi coast: Watamu, Malindi and Marafa

Three days is a good amount of time for the north coast, with time to relax on the beach as well. This plan uses Watamu as a base, but works just as well from Malindi.

Day 1: the sea

Spend the morning snorkelling in Watamu Marine National Park at low tide, then take it easy on the beach. In the late afternoon, take a dhow or canoe trip on Mida Creek and watch the birds come in to roost.

Day 2: forest and ruins

Start early in the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest with a guide, looking for rare birds and elephant shrews while it is cool. Then walk through the Gede Ruins next door. Spend the afternoon on the beach, and in the evening try Swahili food in the village.

Day 3: Malindi and Marafa

Drive 30 minutes north to Malindi. See the Vasco da Gama Pillar and the Portuguese Chapel, wander the old town and have lunch by the sea. In the afternoon, head inland to Marafa Hell’s Kitchen for a walk through the canyon and the sunset. Read about Marafa at sunset.

With more time

• Stop in Kilifi for the creek, the Mnarani Ruins and Bofa Beach on your way north from Mombasa.
• Head inland on safari to Tsavo East.
• Go deep-sea fishing from Watamu or Malindi.