Diani Beach - Discovering Kenya

Travelling to Diani Beach

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Diani Beach, a pretty good destination in Kenya (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Diani Beach and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Diani Beach, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Kenya, here's everything to know about Diani Beach for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Diani Beach

Diani Beach is a beautiful coastal town located in the south coast of Mombasa, Kenya. It's famous for its sparkling white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and natural coral reefs. Diani Beach is a popular tourist destination with many resorts, hotels, and restaurants, offering a variety of water sports and activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and kite surfing. The beach is also known for its rich marine life, with dolphins, whale sharks, and turtles being spotted in the waters nearby. Visitors can also explore the nearby Shimba Hills National Reserve for a safari experience.

What to visit in Diani Beach

1. Diani Beach - This beautiful beach is the main attraction in Diani Beach, Kenya. With its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, Diani Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
2. Shimba Hills National Reserve - This reserve is located just a few kilometers from Diani Beach and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park is home to many elephants, buffalo, and a variety of antelope species.
3. Diani Beach Art Gallery - This art gallery is located in Diani Beach and showcases some of the best works of art in Kenya. The gallery displays artwork that showcases Kenyan culture and biodiversity.
4. Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest - This sacred forest is located just a few kilometers from Diani Beach. It is a great place to explore the rich vegetation and view the rare endemic species of birds. 5. Dolphin Watching – Visitors to Diani Beach can take boat trips out to see dolphins in the nearby waters. 6. Colobus Conservation - This conservation center is located in Diani Beach and dedicated to conserving the endangered Colobus monkey species. Visitors can take a tour to learn about conservation efforts and the importance of preserving these animals.
7. The Coral Gardens - Located within a protected marine park, the Coral Gardens offer visitors the opportunity to go snorkeling and scuba diving among vibrant coral formations and diverse fish species.
8. Mombasa Marine National Park – This park is located just a short drive from Diani Beach and is home to coral reefs, sea turtles, and a variety of marine life. Visitors can take boat tours or go snorkeling and scuba diving to explore the park's marine biodiversity. 9. Fort Jesus - This historic fort was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and is located in Mombasa. It is a great place to learn about Kenya's colonial history and explore the fort's interior and grounds.
10. Diani Chale Marine National Reserve - This reserve is located just south of Diani Beach and is a great place to explore the natural beauty of the Kenyan coast. The reserve offers visitors the opportunity to hike through lush forests and see a variety of native wildlife.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Kenya, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Diani Beach

The best time to visit Diani Beach in Kenya is during the dry season, which runs from late December to late March and from June to October. During these months, the weather is warm and dry, with little rainfall and plenty of sunshine. This makes it an ideal time for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. However, do note that these months are also popular with tourists, and prices may be higher during this time. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, you might consider visiting during the shoulder season, which falls between April to May and November to mid-December. While rainfall is more likely during these months, temperatures are still warm and the beaches will be less busy.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Diani Beach

To get to Diani Beach in Kenya, you can fly into Moi International Airport in Mombasa and then take a taxi or private transfer to Diani Beach. Alternatively, you can also take a domestic flight from Nairobi to Ukunda Airstrip, which is just a 10-minute drive from Diani Beach. Another option is to take a bus from Nairobi to Mombasa and then take a taxi or private transfer to Diani Beach, although this can be a longer and less comfortable option.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Diani Beach, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Diani Beach

Here are some typical foods of Diani Beach in Kenya along with a short description for each of them: 1. Swahili Pilau - A flavorful dish made with rice, spices like cloves, cinnamon, and cumin, and meat or seafood. 2. Ugali - A staple food in Kenya, Ugali is a cornmeal-based dish eaten with stew or meat and vegetables. 3. Samosas - Flaky and crispy deep-fried pastry filled with spiced meat or vegetables. 4. Nyama Choma - Grilled meat, usually goat or beef, served with kachumbari (tomato and onion salad) and Ugali. 5. Coconut Curry - A creamy and spicy curry made with coconut milk, spices, and vegetables or meat. 6. Chapati - A type of flatbread made with flour, water, and oil, usually served with curry or stew. 7. Mshikaki - Skewered and grilled beef or chicken marinated in spices like paprika, cumin, and turmeric. 8. Fish Swahili - A seafood dish made with coconut milk, tomato, and spices like cumin and coriander. 9. Kaimati - Sweet and sticky deep-fried dough balls, usually served as a snack or dessert. 10. Mahamri - A type of sweet bread made with coconut milk and cardamom, usually served with tea or coffee.
You can find general info about typical foods in Kenya here.

Is Diani Beach an expensive destination for tourists?

Diani Beach in Kenya can be relatively expensive for tourists, compared to some other destinations in Africa. Prices for accommodations, food, and activities can vary depending on the time of year and the type of experience you are looking for. During peak travel season, which usually falls between December to February and from July to September, prices can be at their highest. However, budget-friendly accommodations and activities are available, so it's possible to plan a trip to Diani Beach that suits your budget. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices, especially if you're on a tight budget.

Where to find accomodation in Diani Beach

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Diani Beach in Kenya are: 1. Diani Beach Road: This is the most popular and touristy area with a wide range of hotels, resorts, and shops.
2. Galu Beach: A quieter area that is perfect if you want to get away from the crowds and enjoy a more secluded beach experience.
3. Tiwi Beach: Another quiet area located a few kilometers south of Diani Beach that has a few luxury resorts and beautiful white sandy beaches.
4. Msambweni Beach: A stunning and remote beach that is ideal if you want to experience a more exclusive and secluded vacation away from the popular crowds.
5. Shimba Hills: A great option if you would like to stay close to nature and wildlife. The area has several eco-lodges and safari camps, and it's possible to visit the nearby Shimba Hills National Reserve.
You can check hotel prices at Diani Beach here:
Booking.com

Is Diani Beach a safe destination for tourists?

Diani Beach in Kenya is considered a safe place for tourists to visit. The area has a reputation for being a popular beach destination, and there is tight security in place to ensure the safety of tourists. However, it's important to take the usual precautions that you would in any unfamiliar place, such as keeping your valuables safe and being aware of your surroundings. It's also recommended to research and follow any travel advisories or safety recommendations issued by your home country's government or the Kenyan government.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Kenya here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Diani Beach.

What type of travelers will enjoy Diani Beach the most?

Diani Beach in Kenya is a beautiful destination that offers a range of activities for different types of travelers. It is a popular destination for both couples and families with young children. Couples visiting Diani Beach can enjoy a romantic setting with white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and stunning sunsets. They can indulge in various activities like beach walks, water sports like diving, snorkeling, or kite surfing, and have candlelit dinners in some of the best restaurants that offer fresh seafood.
Families with young children can also have a great time in Diani Beach as the place offers great amenities and activities for kids. They can explore the coral reefs through snorkeling or glass-bottom boat rides, visit the nearby wildlife conservation parks to see giraffes, zebras and monkeys in their natural habitat, and participate in exciting water sports.
Additionally, Diani Beach can also be enjoyed by young people looking for fun as there are numerous beach bars and clubs that offer a vibrant nightlife scene. They can also try skydiving, jet-skiing, and other adrenaline-inducing activities.
Overall, Diani Beach is a destination that caters to different types of travelers.

How to get around Diani Beach

There are several transportation options you can use to move around Diani Beach, Kenya. The most common means of transportation are taxis, tuk-tuks, motorbikes, and car rentals. Taxis are readily available in Diani Beach and can be booked through hotels or hailed on the street. Tuk-tuks are a popular and affordable option for short distances. Motorbikes are also available for hire but are less common and require a valid motorbike license. Car rentals are available for those who prefer to have their own transportation. However, it's important to note that while driving is done on the left side of the road in Kenya, road conditions can be challenging and require a high level of driving skill.

What to see around Diani Beach

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Diani Beach: 1. Shimba Hills National Reserve: Located just 33 km northwest of Diani Beach, Shimba Hills National Reserve is a great place to go for a game drive or a nature walk. The reserve is home to unique flora and fauna including the rare Sable antelope and the endangered elephant shrew.
2. Mombasa Old Town: This historic town is just 35 km north of Diani Beach and is known for its Swahili architecture, narrow streets, and colorful markets. Here, you can visit the Fort Jesus Museum, sample some Swahili cuisine, and shop for local crafts.
3. Wasini Island: Wasini Island is located about 60 km south of Diani Beach. Here, you can take a boat tour to see dolphins, go snorkeling in the coral reefs, and enjoy a seafood lunch on the island.
4. Gedi Ruins: The Gedi Ruins are just 40 km north of Diani Beach and are the remains of a 13th-century Swahili town. You can explore the ruins and learn about the ancient Swahili culture and architecture.
5. Diani Beach Art Gallery: The Diani Beach Art Gallery is just a few minutes' walk from Diani Beach. Here, you can see and purchase local artwork, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
6. Ngong Forest Reserve: Ngong Forest Reserve is located about 50 km north of Diani Beach and is a great place to go hiking, bird watching, and picnicking. The forest is home to over 200 bird species, including the rare Hartlaub's turaco.
For every travel information about Kenya you can click here.

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