Malindi & Watamu

Location

Located along Kenya’s east coast, Malindi is 65 miles north of Mombasa, with the coastal haven of Watamu nestled in between the two.

Size

Malindi is 242 square miles while Watamu is around 90 square miles.

History

Malindi was once a thriving trading post thanks to the exploration and landing of Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama. When the trading posts were moved to Mombasa in the late 16th century, the town saw a decline in stature in the late 1800s, when Sultan Majid of Zanzibar conquered Malindi. It then served as a hub for the slave trade until the end of the 19th century, when under then British Rule, slavery was abolished. Nearby Watamu is the site of the Gedes Ruins, an exemplary example of early Swahili architecture and a once-thriving community.

How to Get There

By Road

70 miles by road, Malindi lies north of Mombasa with the drive an easy two and a half hours. For visitors looking to spend some time on Watamu beach, the drive from Mombasa is around 61 miles, the idyllic location situated just south of Malindi.

By Air

A flight from Kenya’s capital, Nairobi to Malindi is 264 miles, flying time of around one hour. The small town and amazing beaches of Watamu are located a 9 mile drive south of Malindi, so visitors would still fly into Malindi Airport then transfer by road.

By Train

Discover Kenya’s stunning landscapes on the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), spanning 472 kilometers (293 miles) from Nairobi to Mombasa in around 6 hours. Enjoy diverse scenery while journeying to coastal gems of Malindi and Watamu. Mombasa SGR is located a distance of 18.7 km from Malindi and one has to get to Malindi with a transfer from Mombasa SGR.

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

May to October present the best months to spend time in Malindi and Watamu. The weather is in the high 80s and simply inviting. In August, the coolest month, the temperature only drops to around 80°F. Take advantage of wonderful and dry winter weather.

Avoiding Crowds

If visitors travel around late October or early May, they will be able to avoid the crowds that can be found on the beaches of Malindi and Watamu.

Value for Money

There are a variety of accommodation options and with close proximity to Mombasa and some of Kenya’s key safari destinations, spending time in Malindi is definitely value for money. Enjoy a beach-break on the white sands of Watamu and enjoy the proximity to Mombasa as well as the accommodations on offer near Malindi. An idyllic beach escape that costs a lot less than staying on a private island.

Marine Life and Topography

Popular Marine Life Sightings

Look out for the fascinating parrot fish and admire cute starfish and quirky crabs when snorkeling or diving off Malindi’s coast. When you spend time in the Watamu Marine National Park, keep an eye out for the variety of turtles that call Watamu home.

The Aquatic Landscape

Coral life is wonderful in the waters surrounding Malindi. Discover the stoney Turbinaria coral or the finger-like morphology of the Porites coral. The ocean floor is alive with a vibrant underwater landscape. The underwater landscape of Watamu is a breathtaking sight of color and topographical charm with vibrant coral in pristine water.

Experience

White sandy beaches and an ocean full of water activities from kayaking to scuba diving and snorkeling will keep those looking for adventure entertained. Consider visiting nearby sites such as the Gedes Ruins or spend time at the Turtle Watch.

Book your perfect beach and safari getaway with Adventure In The Wild Safaris for an unforgettable coastal and wildlife experience.