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Watamu

Kenya, Africa

Watamu, located on the stunning Kenyan coastline, is renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and the enchanting Watamu Marine National Park. Visitors can enjoy water sports, snorkeling, and diving, while exploring the unique ecosystems teeming with marine life. The area is also rich in culture, offering a blend of Swahili heritage and local wildlife, making it a perfect getaway for adventure seekers and beach lovers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Malindi

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

13 Best Things to Do in Watamu

1. Snorkel at Watamu Marine National Park

Explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

2. Visit Gede Ruins

Discover ancient Swahili ruins and history.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

3. Relax at Watamu Beach

Unwind on pristine white sandy beaches.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

4. Explore the Mida Creek

Kayak through mangroves and spot wildlife.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

5. Go on a dolphin tour

Spot playful dolphins in their natural habitat.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

3.5 hrs

6. Visit the Watamu Turtle Sanctuary

Learn about sea turtle conservation efforts.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

7. Experience the local cuisine

Taste fresh seafood and Swahili dishes.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

8. Visit the Watamu Village Market

Shop for local crafts and souvenirs.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

9. Take a sunset boat cruise

Enjoy stunning views over the Indian Ocean.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

2 hrs

10. Visit the Arabuko Sokoke Forest

Explore Kenya's largest coastal forest.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

11. Attend a cultural dance performance

Experience vibrant local music and dance.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

12. Explore the Watamu National Park

Hike and discover diverse ecosystems and wildlife.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

13. Participate in a yoga retreat

Find peace with ocean view yoga sessions.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

4 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-10 (#143 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Kenyan Shilling

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Swahili

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Ugali Nyama Choma Na Kachumbari

Maize porridge with grilled meat and salsa (National dish)

Pilau

Spiced rice dish with meat or vegetables

Githeri

VE

Mixed beans and maize stew, hearty and nutritious

Sukuma Wiki

VE

Sautéed collard greens, often served as a side

Mutura

Grilled sausage made from meat and spices

Phrases to learn

English

Swahili

Hello

Habari

(Hah-bah-ree)

Yes/No

Ndiyo / Hapana

(Ndee-yo / Ha-pah-nah)

Thank you

Asante

(Ah-sahn-teh)

Excuse me

Samahani

(Sah-mah-hah-nee)

How much?

Bei gani?

(Bay-yee gah-nee)