Kenya’s coastal towns are renowned for their stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical vegetation. While the popular tourist destinations of Mombasa and Malindi are well-known, there are also a number of hidden gems along the Kenyan coast that offer a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.
Here is a comprehensive guide to some of the best-hidden gems of Kenya’s coastal towns:
Watamu
Watamu is a small coastal town north of Mombasa, known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and mangrove forests. Visitors to Watamu can enjoy snorkeling, diving, swimming, and fishing. They can also visit the nearby Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Reserve, home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and monkeys.
Watamu is also home to a number of historical sites, including the Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve, a protected area home to over 600 species of fish, dolphins, whales, and sea turtles. Visitors can also visit the Gede Ruins, the remains of a medieval Swahili settlement.
Lamu
Lamu is an island off the coast of Kenya, known for its well-preserved Swahili culture and its beautiful beaches. Visitors to Lamu can enjoy exploring the town’s narrow streets, visiting the donkey sanctuary, and shopping for souvenirs at the local markets. They can also take a boat trip to the nearby Manda Island, home to a variety of birds and wildlife.
Lamu is also home to a number of historical sites, including the Lamu Fort, built in the 19th century to protect the island from pirates. Visitors can also visit the Lamu Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits on the history and culture of Lamu.
Malindi
Malindi is a coastal town south of Mombasa, known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and historical ruins. Visitors to Malindi can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. They can also visit the nearby Gede Ruins, the remains of a medieval Swahili settlement.
Malindi is also home to a number of other historical sites, including the Vasco da Gama Pillar, erected by the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama in 1498. Visitors can also visit the Malindi Cathedral, built in the 16th century.
Kilifi
Kilifi is a coastal town north of Mombasa, known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and mangrove forests. Visitors to Kilifi can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. They can also visit the nearby Mida Creek, a popular spot for birdwatching.
Kilifi is also home to a number of historical sites, including the Kilifi Bridge, built in the 19th century and one of the oldest bridges in Kenya. Visitors can also visit the Kilifi Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits on the history and culture of Kilifi.
Diani Beach
Diani Beach is a long stretch of white sand beach south of Mombasa, known for its beautiful scenery, its world-class resorts, and its many activities. Visitors to Diani Beach can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, diving, and windsurfing. They can also go on game drives to the nearby Shimba Hills National Reserve, home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and giraffes.
Diani Beach is also home to a number of historical sites, including the Diani Beach Ruinen, the remains of a medieval Swahili settlement. Visitors can also visit the Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest, a sacred forest home to a variety of wildlife and plants.
Sustainable Tourism
When planning your trip to Kenya’s hidden gems, it is important to choose tour operators and accommodations that are committed to sustainable tourism. Sustainable tourism is a way of traveling that minimizes environmental impact and supports local communities. There are a number of sustainable tourism operators and accommodations in Kenya. These operators and accommodations use eco-friendly practices, such as solar power and water conservation. They also support local communities by hiring local employees and purchasing goods and services from local suppliers.
Cultural Interactions
One of the best ways to experience Kenya’s coastal towns is to interact with the local people. Here are a few ideas:
- Visit a local market and sample some of the delicious food on offer.
- Take a cooking class and learn how to make some of your favorite Kenyan dishes