Stories & guides
Itineraries, snorkelling in the marine parks, the Gede Ruins, Marafa at sunset, turtles and marine wildlife, the best time to visit and getting here.
ItinerariesA perfect day in Watamu: snorkelling in the marine park at low tide, lunch by the beach, the Gede Ruins in the afternoon and a dhow cruise on Mida Creek at sunset.
ItinerariesA three-day plan for Kenya’s north coast: Watamu’s marine park and Mida Creek, the Gede Ruins and the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest, then Malindi and a sunset at Marafa.
OutdoorsHow to snorkel the coral gardens of Watamu and Malindi marine national parks: when to go, how the tides work, what you will see, park fees and how to protect the reef.
HistoryA guide to the Gede Ruins near Watamu: the history of the Swahili town, what to see from the Great Mosque to the palace and the pillar tombs, and tips for your visit.
Day tripsHow to visit Marafa Hell’s Kitchen, the red sandstone canyon inland from Malindi: getting there, the walk with a local guide, the legend and the best time for sunset.
PlanningHow to get to Malindi, Watamu and Kilifi: flights from Nairobi to Malindi, the Madaraka Express to Mombasa, the drive up the coast road, and getting around by tuk-tuk.
PlanningWhen to visit Kenya’s north coast: the calm, sunny months of the north-east monsoon, the windier south-east monsoon, the long and short rains, whales, turtles and holiday crowds.
WildlifeWhere and when to see sea turtles, dolphins, whales and reef fish around Watamu and Malindi, how local groups protect turtle nests, and how to watch wildlife responsibly.