Watamu National Marine Park
Popular Malindi Attractions

Kenya's response to the Great Barrier Reef, the Watamu National Park is a popular destination of scuba divers, snorkelers and nature lovers alike.

Watamu National Marine Park is a magnificent 10 square kilometre UNESCO Biosphere reserve in Kenya located 120 kilometres north of Mombasa and 28 Km South of Malindi. Watamu is considered on to the top beaches in the world and each year sun-worshipping tourists flock here to relax on the soft sandy beaches and soak up the peace and tranquillity of their surroundings.

With a species list of over 150 hard and soft corals, fans and sponges and over 500 species of tropical fish Watamu Marine Park & Reserve is a beautiful place to visit after a East African bush safari. Watamu National Park is also home to Whale Sharks, Manta Rays, Turtles, Angelfish, Lionfish and a multitude of other colourful and fascinating marine animals.

A popular destination for snorkelers and scuba divers, a short time in the azure waters will unlock a magical world centred on a magnificent coral reef. The reefs close proximity to the shore makes it easily accessible to novice divers and snorkelers. Advanced drivers will enjoy a visit to the outer coral reefs where large brain corals attract an abundance of sea life.

Due to its close proximity to Tsavo National Park, Kenya's oldest and largest National Park, visitors to Watamu can also take a short 3 day Tsavo safari to view the game animals.

Enquire about a Tsavo and Watamu Bush and Beach safari itinerary - we can create a tailor-made itinerary for you.

Bird watchers will also enjoy a stay at Watamu, with hundreds of bird species found in the nearby Arabuko-Sokoke Forest and around the Mida Creek Reserve. Migrants and local species of birds can be seen here including African Pygmy Kingfishers, Osprey, and many other species.

Mida Creek is an important area for Greater and Lesser Sandplovers and Crab-plovers and there are over 65 aquatic bird species listed in the area. Mida Creek has a fascinating history and visitors should not miss the opportunity to explore the ancient Swahili ruins at Gede while in the area.

For those looking for a little adventure, why not take a canoe trip to one of the many romantic islands and enjoy a picnic lunch or a Dhow excursion into Watamu National Park? Another popular activity from the Kenyan North Coast is bill & game fishing with, Broadbill Swordfish, Sailfish, Blue, Striped and Black Marlin all found in these waters, once outside the protective coral reef.

The monsoon months of May, June and July produce strong winds, rain and rough seas, so that fishing during this time of the year is limited.

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