Watamu sits within the Malindi-Watamu biosphere reserve, and its coral gardens are protected as a marine national park. Snorkelling from a glass-bottom boat, visiting the Local Ocean turtle rehabilitation centre and walking the boardwalk through Mida Creek’s mangroves are highlights.
Nearby, the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest shelters rare birds and elephant shrews, and the ruins of the Swahili town of Gede lie a short drive inland.
Highlights
- Watamu Marine National Park
- Local Ocean turtle conservation
- Mida Creek boardwalk
- Gede ruins
Wildlife & what you'll see
- Sea turtles
- Dolphins
- Coastal forest birds
Things to do
- Snorkelling
- Mangrove walk
- Forest birding
- Historic site visits
Best time to visit
December to March and July to October.
Getting there
Fly from Nairobi to Malindi (about 1 hour), then a 30-minute drive.
Experiences in Watamu
FAQs about Watamu
Can we see turtles in Watamu?
Turtles are often seen while snorkelling, and the local conservation centre welcomes visitors to learn about its rescue work.
