Top 5 Places to Visit in Watamu

In the local Swahili language, Watamu means “ Sweet People”. True to its name Watamu is one of the top destinations on the Kenyan Coast.

Picturesquely, this tiny village lies along the coast of the Indian Ocean approximately 105 Km north of Mombasa and 15 Km south of Malindi.

The town boasts of a virgin Tropical Rain Forest, clean and secure beaches, and Coral Gardens among other tourist attraction sites.

With average temperatures of 30 C / 23 C during high and low seasons, this peaceful village provides a conducive environment for both international and local tourists all year round.

In this article, we will highlight some of the amazing locations to visit in Watamu and the fun activities in those areas.

Best Places to Visit in Watamu

There is a lot to do in the coastal town of Watamu. Ranging from Watamu Marine National park, and Gede Ruins to the amazing Turtle Bay, Watamu has a lot of fun places to visit both on land and underwater.

Wondering why the park is famous? Here is why. The Watamu National park is known worldwide for its natural beauty and diverse marine life such as Sea Turtles, Manta Rays, and visiting Whale Sharks.

Additionally, the famous and protected Great Barrier Reef boasts of international recognition as UNESCO Biosphere for its natural excellence. It is in this reef that you will spot the visiting Whale Sharks and the Manta Rays.

Comparative with other Lagoons it has a wide range of species than the other smaller reefs.

Some of the common marine life under the blue clear waters include colored fish species like angelfish, lionfish, and filefish. The green turtles, octopuses, and beautiful butterflies are also a site to behold too under the quiet crystal waters.

Your Journey at the Marine Park won’t be complete without;

• a visit to the white sandy beaches
• water skiing,
• boat rides
• snorkeling
• windsurfing

2. Gedi Ruins

A View of Gedi ruins Photo Credit Siyabona Africa

Estimated to be about 600 years old, Gedi Ruins is a must-visit location while in Watamu. The village is full of attractive wildlife consisting of owls, Syke Monkeys, Golden Rumped Elephant Shrew, and an indigenous tree forest.

It is not well established why the coastal town was abandoned but here are some of the reasons why its original inhabitants left in the 17th Century; a Portuguese raid, a deadly plague, and salty water.

A traverse through the ruins will help you understand the ancient Swahili culture.

You will be in contact with a variety of bird species like the Malachite Kingfishers, and African Harrier Hawks among other bird species that can be observed from a tree platform.

Furthermore, the Gedi Ruins, now a National Museum is also home to over 40 species of plants making the environment serene and atmospheric.

Further, it is also a Historic Monument and you can visit the remains of a palace, houses, and mosques.

One can easily find their way through the forest trails and among the ruins, however, it is advised to use a Tour Guide through the densely populated forest to avoid minor accidents through the ruins and getting lost.

3. Mida Creek

Surround by lush and green Mangroove forest, the Mida Creek is one of its kind in Watamu. The waters are cool and inviting especially in the hot season.

Stretching for about 32 km wide the creek consists of seagrass and coral a safe habitat for feeding sea turtles and numerous fish species.

You could easily spot migratory birds, especially during the evening, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing sundowner. The small inlets allow you to explore the deep Mangrove forest which is rich with marine life.

The Mida Creek can be explored by Canoes, floating, or on a cruise. Incredible activities at Mida include kayaking, wakeboarding, and water skiing in the broad waters.

Of importance also, is the community project, Mida Creek Conservation Community, they have a Crab Farm a shark restaurant with crabs as the main delicacy.

Other bird species found on this panoramic creek are Flamingoes, Fish Eagles, and King Fishers.

4.Bio -Ken Snake Farm

Lovers of Snakes or want to know more about snakes? This is for you. The farm is home to a huge number of snakes in East Africa. The Bio—Ken Snake farm is located a stone throw away from top hotels in Watamu.

Apart from offering snake viewing, the professional staff at the farm answers questions concerning snakes and snake removal services in Watamu. Moreover, they have anti-venom jabs in case of a snake bite.

5. Local Ocean Conservation

Looking to explore the delicate underground life? Look no further. The Local Ocean Conservation in Watamu offers you the right information on that.

The initiative, one of its kind along the Kenyan coast, was started by the locals to protect the endangered marine life including the sea turtles, Mida Creek, and Coral Reefs while enlightening the population on the beauty of the underwater floral and fauna.

The turtles come in different colors and are a sight hard to overlook. The Local Conservation actively engages in rescuing the turtles and protecting their nests. You will learn a lot at the conservation center while viewing amazing marine creatures.

At this point, you are wondering how to get to Watamu and where you’ll stay. Don't worry, that's where we come in.

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