Watamu - Discovering Kenya

Travelling to Watamu

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Watamu, 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 Watamu 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 Watamu, 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 Watamu for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Watamu

Watamu is a small coastal town located in the Kilifi County of Kenya, East Africa. It is famous for its magnificent beaches and turquoise blue waters of the Indian Ocean. The area is also home to Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve, a protected area that offers a wide range of marine life such as dolphins, turtles, and coral reefs for visitors to explore. Fishing is also a common activity in the area. In addition, there are many accommodation options available in Watamu, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to lavish resorts. The nearest airport is the Malindi Airport, which is about 20 kilometers away from Watamu.

What to visit in Watamu

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Watamu, Kenya along with some basic info: 1. Watamu Beach: Watamu Beach is the top tourist attraction of the area. It is a pristine beach with crystalline waters & soft, white sand. Here, you can sunbathe, swim, go for snorkeling, or enjoy a sunset cruise.
2. Watamu Marine National Park: Watamu Marine National Park is a beautiful park that is home to lots of marine life. Here, you can go for sailing, deep-sea fishing, or snorkeling to discover the rich coral reefs.
3. Gede Ruins: Gede Ruins is a historical site located in the Watamu area. It is a well-preserved ancient Swahili city that dates back to the 13th century.
4. Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve: This is a beautiful protected area that has a diverse range of habitats, like coastal forests, grasslands, and coral reefs. Here, you can engage in birdwatching, hiking, and forest excursions.
5. Bio-Ken Snake Farm: Bio-Ken Snake Farm is Kenya's largest snake park. It has an extensive collection of venomous snakes, many of which are indigenous to Kenya. The farm offers educational tours about snakes and their importance in the ecosystem.
6. Mida Creek: Mida Creek is an estuary of mangrove swamps that is home to over 200 bird species. You can interact with the locals, or take a boat ride to get close to the flamingos, crab-plovers, and other rare bird species.
7. Kipepeo Butterfly Farm: Kipepeo Butterfly Farm is a butterfly farm that cultivates indigenous butterfly species. Visitors can enjoy watching the lifespan of the butterflies, from egg to full-grown adults.
These are just a few examples of popular Watamu tourist attractions. With all these fantastic options, Watamu is the perfect destination for an unforgettable holiday.
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.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Watamu.

When to go on holiday to Watamu

The best time to visit Watamu is between January and March when the weather is dry and warm, with daytime temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). This period is ideal for water-based activities such as swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving, as the sea is calm and visibility is good. June to September is also a good time to visit, although it can be slightly cooler and there may be some rainfall. October to December can be a bit more unpredictable, with higher chances of rain, but it can still be a pleasant time to visit if you don't mind some precipitation. Overall, Watamu is a year-round destination, but it's worth checking the weather forecast before booking your trip, particularly if you have specific activities planned.

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

How to get to Watamu

There are a few ways to get to Watamu, Kenya. 1. Flights: You can fly to Mombasa International Airport which is located about 2 hours away from Watamu. From there, you can either hire a taxi or take a bus to Watamu. 2. Bus: You can take a bus from Nairobi to Malindi, which is located about 20 minutes away from Watamu. From Malindi, you can take a taxi or a tuk-tuk to reach Watamu.
3. Private Car: You can also hire a private car to take you to Watamu. This option may be a bit more expensive, but it could be more comfortable and convenient for travelers who prefer not to take public transportation.
No matter which option you choose, I recommend doing some research to find the most convenient and comfortable way to reach Watamu based on your travel budget and preferences.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Watamu, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Watamu

Sure, here are some typical foods of Watamu, Kenya with a short description for each: 1. Ugali - A staple food made from maize flour and water. It has a dough-like consistency and is usually served with a meat or vegetable stew.
2. Chapati - A type of flatbread made from wheat flour, water, and oil. It is usually served with savory dishes or used as a wrap for street food.
3. Swahili Pilau - A fragrant rice dish cooked with various spices like cumin, cinnamon, and cardamom, as well as meat or vegetables.
4. Biriani - A rice dish cooked with a mix of spices and meat or vegetables, usually served with a side of yogurt and chutney.
5. Ugali fish - A combination of ugali and fried fish, often served at beachside restaurants in Watamu.
6. Coconut rice - A flavorful rice dish cooked with coconut milk, herbs, and spices.
7. Samosas - A popular street food snack, stuffed with spiced vegetables or meat and deep-fried until crispy.
8. Grilled seafood - Watamu is well known for its fresh seafood, such as lobster, crab, prawns, and fish. It is often grilled and served with a side of vegetables and rice.
You can find general info about typical foods in Kenya here.

Is Watamu an expensive destination for tourists?

Watamu can be considered a mid to high-end destination for tourists, with prices generally higher than other areas in Kenya. Accommodation, especially luxury resorts and private villas, can be quite expensive. However, there are also more affordable options available such as guesthouses and budget-friendly hotels. The cost of food, activities, and transportation can also vary, but generally, they are priced on the higher side compared to other areas of Kenya. It's recommended to plan your budget accordingly and do some research beforehand to find the best deals and offerings for your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Watamu

The best areas to find accommodation when visiting Watamu, Kenya are: 1. Watamu Bay: This is the most popular area for tourists, with a variety of hotels, resorts, and lodges. It also has beautiful white sand beaches, and the Watamu Marine National Park is close by.
2. Turtle Bay: This area is also known for its beach and proximity to the Watamu Marine National Park. It's a quieter and more secluded area, with resorts and cottages.
3. Mida Creek: This area is a bit further from the beach but is great for those who love nature and want to experience the mangrove forests. There are also several lodges and resorts in this area.
4. Gede: This area is a historic site, home to the Gede Ruins. It's a quieter area with fewer accommodation options but can be a great option for those interested in history and culture.
You can check hotel prices at Watamu here:
Booking.com

Is Watamu a safe destination for tourists?

Generally speaking, Watamu is a safe place for tourists. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and there is a strong presence of security personnel in the area. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone or at night. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing or theft from cars, can occur, so it is important to keep your belongings secure. Additionally, it is advisable to follow the guidance of your hotel or tour operator, and refrain from visiting areas that are known to be unsafe or underdeveloped.
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 Watamu.

What type of travelers will enjoy Watamu the most?

Watamu, in Kenya, is a great destination for a variety of travelers! Here are some types of travelers who would enjoy it the most: 1. Beach Enthusiasts: Watamu has some of the most beautiful beaches in Africa, with white sand and clear turquoise waters. Beach lovers will enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and exploring the coves and beaches.
2. Nature Lovers: Watamu Marine National Park is one of the greatest marine parks in Africa, with an incredible array of fish and coral life. The park offers snorkeling and diving, marine life drives and many other amazing experiences.
3. Families: Watamu is a great destination for families, as it has plenty of activities that cater to different age ranges, including water sports, beaches, nature walks, and more. Families can enjoy bonding time while exploring the wonders of Watamu! 4. Adventure Seekers: Watamu has plenty of adventurous activities, such as kite surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and even deep-sea fishing.
Overall, Watamu is ideal for couples, young people, families, and anyone who loves the sea, sun, sand, and nature.

How to get around Watamu

The most common ways to get around Watamu in Kenya are by tuk-tuk, taxi, motorbike, or renting a car. Tuk-tuks are inexpensive and can be found throughout the town. Taxis are also widely available, but fares can be more expensive. Motorbikes are popular and are a great way to navigate through traffic, although they can be unsafe. If you are looking to explore outside of Watamu, renting a car is a great option, just be aware of the road conditions.

What to see around Watamu

Here are some nice places you can visit on a day trip from Watamu: 1. Malindi: A town located just 30 minutes away from Watamu. Here you can visit the Malindi Marine National Park, the Vasco da Gama pillar and the Malindi Museum.
2. Marafa Hell's Kitchen: An incredible natural phenomenon located about an hour away from Watamu. It is a set of sandstone formations that have been weathered and eroded over millions of years.
3. Gede Ruins: These ancient ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 30 minutes from Watamu. They are the remains of a Swahili town which dates back to the 12th century.
4. Watamu Marine National Park: If you're looking for a fun and adventurous day out, you can head to the Watamu Marine National Park. You'll have the opportunity to go snorkeling and scuba diving to see the stunning coral reefs and sea life.
5. Mida Creek: Located just 10 minutes away from Watamu, Mida Creek is a scenic estuary where you can go kayaking or take a boat ride to spot the bird life and mangroves.
There are plenty of other places you can visit, but these are some of the most popular day trips from Watamu.
For every travel information about Kenya you can click here.

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