The immense 490-kilometer rugged coastline that defines Eastern Kenya is lined with palm trees and the glistening waters of the Indian Ocean. Where gentle trade winds facilitated the journey of traditional dhow boats between Arabia and India, traders once favored this area as a prime location for exchanging spices. This vibrant interaction of imported and native influences from Africa, Arabia, and Asia gave birth to Swahili culture and lead to the creation of Kenya's most spoken language. Today, the rich tapestry of people and cultures continues to thrive on the island.
The Kenyan Coast offers the ideal retreat after your safari adventure. Unwind in style with scuba diving, snorkeling and kitesurfing at our selection of luxurious accommodations and island retreats.
Travel to the Kenyan Coast anytime from June to March, avoiding the long rains of April and May.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 AVG. TEMP | 32°C | 32°C | 33°C | 31°C | 29°C | 28°C | 27°C | 28°C | 29°C | 30°C | 31°C | 32°C |
 RAINFALL | 16mm | 12mm | 49mm | 145mm | 237mm | 98mm | 66mm | 53mm | 49mm | 91mm | 88mm | 54mm |
It is safe to travel to the Kenyan Coast, but important to be sensible and avoid walking around at night alone in Mombasa or on deserted beaches.
It is best to pack as light as possible for safari; limit baggage to two items per person and always use soft bags rather than suitcases. In specific cases i.e. for internal flights, luggage may be limited to 15kg per person. Most hotels and lodges have laundry services, so an excessive amount of clothing should be unnecessary.
Read more about what to pack
Kenya makes for one of the most inspirational safari honeymoon destinations in Africa, with the perfect cocktail of wildlife, adventure, cities and beaches.
Read moreA small coastal town two hours north of Mombasa, Watamu Bay has an impressive coral reef and Swahili influence and is a tranquil destination that also has a National Marine Park, which is a popular day-trip option for snorkeling and exploring the abundant marine life.
Manda Bay is a paradise of leisure – lounging by the pool with a captivating book and a refreshing cocktail, gliding along the serene mangrove waterways on paddleboards, or swaying in the hammocks outside the bedrooms. Low tide invites tranquil beach walks, and a drive in the iconic blue Range Rover to see the resident buffalo herd remains a cherished activity. It's a water sports haven; families and energetic guests can revel in the thrill of the motorboat, and the water sports equipment collection is extensive – from banana boats and screamers to Laser sailboats, kayaks, water skis, wakeboards, and snorkelling gear. Manda Bay's calm and safe sea is perfect for teaching these activities to beginners. Kitesurfing enthusiasts will also find the bay an excellent spot, though they should bring their own kites.
The Lamu archipelago is Kenya’s oldest settlement and the cradle of the Swahili civilisation, earning is UNESCO World Heritage status. A trading post dating back to 1500s, where spices, ivory and mangrove poles were traded along this vital route. Stunningly scenic, the absence of cars and presence of dhows and donkeys creates a unique and laid-back atmosphere. Explore the buzz of local markets in the old town, indulge in fresh seafood or dive the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.
40 kilometres and one hour south of Mombasa, Diani Beach is one of the more popular areas, surrounded inland by rainforests that contain colourful birds and rare Colobus monkeys and crystalline ocean waters filled with dolphins, fish and sea turtles. From here it is possible to walk 5 miles in either direction along an idyllic coastline.
A beautiful spot on the secluded Gale beach, quieter getaway can be found in the form of Galu Beach close to Diani, with its distinct village feel and the sublime Kinondo Kwetu lodge.
