Malindi

Malindi, a historical coastal town north of Watamu, offers a fascinating blend of Swahili culture, Portuguese influence, and natural beauty. Once a significant trading port, its rich history is evident in landmarks like the Vasco da Gama Pillar and the remnants of ancient mosques and tombs. Today, Malindi is a popular tourist destination known for its expansive beaches, including the popular Malindi Beach and Silversands Beach, which provide opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports such as windsurfing and kite surfing, especially with the favorable Kaskazi winds prevalent around this time of year. The nearby Malindi Marine National Park and Reserve protects diverse coral reefs and marine life, ideal for snorkeling and diving excursions.  Inland, visitors can explore the intriguing Falconry of Kenya, showcasing birds of prey, or take a trip to the Marafa Depression, also known as “Hell’s Kitchen,” a dramatic sandstone canyon carved by wind and water. Additionally, Malindi offers a vibrant culinary scene with fresh seafood and Swahili dishes, and serves as a gateway to the Tsavo East National Park for wildlife safaris, making it a diverse and engaging destination on the Kenyan coast.