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The Kenyan coast is a stunning tapestry of crystalline azure waters alongside white sandy beaches with gently swaying palm trees. However, it offers more than sun and sand.

Kenya’s tropical paradise is a historical hub, a cultural hub, and a marine and wildlife haven. So, come along on this excursion and explore Mombasa and Diani, two Kenyan seaside towns located on Kenya’s North and South coast, respectively.

Mombasa (North Coast): A Beach Destination Steeped In History, Culture, and Wildlife

Mombasa is Kenya’s second-largest city after Nairobi. The port city’s deep harbors led to its growth and development into a strategic trading town.

Traders from the Arabian Gulf, Turkey, China, and Portugal interacted with its Bantu population during their travel, giving rise to Swahili culture. Mombasa’s historical essence is present in every element, including monuments, architecture, and culinary experiences, as highlighted below.

Tamarind Dhow Dinner Cruise

Image Source: Tamarind.co.ke

The Tamarind Dhow dinner teleports you back in time as you cruise the serene, glistening Indian Ocean waters from Tamabo To Tudor Creek. Cruises include fresh seafood platters and juicy tropical fruit salads and last approximately two hours.

Fort Jesus

Fort Jesus

Image Source: National Museums of Kenya

Fort Jesus is a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Old Town of Mombasa. The imposing structure, built from 1593-1596, is a magnificent display of 16th-century military architecture and design elements from various dynasties. Fort Jesus remains open daily from 8.00 am-6.00 pm, including 3D sound and light shows held every Friday to Sunday.

Food Tour

Mombasa’ was a thriving spice market, and these spices are the soul of today’s Swahili food culture. The streets of Mombasa are a foodie’s haven brimming with fresh produce, the day’s catch, and tonnes of flavor.

Bombolulu Workshop and Cultural Center For Abled Differently Persons

Bombolulu

Image Source: Bomboluluworkshop.co.ke

The Bombolulu Workshop is a social rehabilitation and economic empowerment program to help differently-abled persons realize their full potential. Visit the center and see highly-skilled artisans at work, crafting beautiful jewelry, wood carvings, and African textiles.

Additionally, the Bombolulu Cultural Center showcases coastal cultural elements, including traditional houses and dances. You can support the Bombolulu Workshop and Cultural Center by purchasing souvenirs from its gift shop.

Nguuni Nature Sanctuary

Nguuni

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Once an abandoned wasteland devastated by the quarrying excavations, Nguuni sanctuary plays home to wildlife and various plant species. Animal life on the sanctuary includes multiple butterfly species, birds (including ostriches), giraffes, oryx, and the eland antelope.

Haller Park

Bamburi Haller Park

Image Source: Lafarge.co.ke

Haller Park, a recipient of UNEP’s Global 500 Award, is also the result of exhausted quarry reclamation. The Park has sectioned areas, including a game sanctuary, reptile park, fish farm, crocodile pen, and a giraffe feeding area. Additionally, Haller park is home to over 25 plant species.

Diani (South Coast): A Pristine World-class Beach Town

Diani Beach ranks among the best beaches globally. You can travel to Diana via road from Mombasa or jet in via Ukunda airport. A Diani trip is incomplete without the activities below.

Watersports

H20 Extreme- Diani Beach

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Diani beach is the best place to get your adrenaline pumping by indulging in watersports like snorkeling, bodyboarding, paddleboarding, skydiving, kayaking, and kitesurfing.

Colubus Conservation Trust

Colobus Conservation

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The Colobus Conservation Trust protects and preserves the Colobus monkeys’ (an endangered species) welfare. It provides 24-hour emergency rescue services to the monkeys and engages the community in conservation activities.

Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park

Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park

Image Source: Kws.go.ke

Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park is an enchanting ecosystem featuring pristine marine life, including vibrant coral reefs and fishes of all kinds. Moreover, you can make a pit stop while sailing to the marine park and snorkel alongside the Diani’s dolphins.

Shimoni Caves

Shimoni Caves

Image Source: Amboseliparkkenya.com

Shimoni caves were at the epicenter of the infamous East African Arab Trade. The 5-meter-long caves functioned as holding sites where the traders held locals captured from Kenya’s hinterland before loading them into dhows destined for slave markets. Shimoni caves contain artefacts from the slave trade, including shackles, chains, and crates.

“Pwani raha” is a Swahili phrase translating to “coastal joy” and is the most accurate description of Kenya’s coast. So, book curated trips to Mombasa or Diani and other coastal destinations today.

Explore Kenya’s Magnificent Coastline: Things To Do In Kenya’s Top Seaside Towns