Travel to the North Coast and discover the natural beauty of small fishing villages and the rich history and culture of East Africa’s most important seaport, Mombasa. Along the palm fringed coastline, you will find Watamu, Kilifi and Malindi, home to fishermen and water sports. Kilifi Creek with its crystal-clear waters welcomes sailors from around the world, while the mangroves in Mida Creek by Watamu house flamingos and feed sea turtles.
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What is referred to as the North Coast is the northern half of Kenya’s east coast. The north coast beaches are Nyali, Bamburi, Shanzu, Kikambala, Vipingo, Takaungu, Kilifi, Watamu and Malindi. Nyali, Mtwapa, Watamu and Malindi are sizeable towns. Mombasa, to the south, has an international airport called Moi International Airport. Malindi, to the north, has a domestic airport that receives scheduled flights daily from destinations in Kenya. The road from Mombasa to Malindi is generally good; the road from Malindi to Lamu requires 4WD.
Tana River Primate Reserve, on the lower Tana River, has riparian forests, dry woodlands and savannah habitats. Two endangered primates, Mangabey and red colobus monkey, are found here, as well as a variety of wildlife and over 200 species of birds. The reserve offers bird watching, primate watching, walking trails and game viewing.
Malindi Marine National Park is Africa’s oldest marine park. Located to the south of Malindi town, the marine park has fringing reefs, coral gardens, mangroves and a high diversity of fish, marine mammals and shorebirds. Activities include snorkelling, scuba diving, boat rides and nature walks. There is a resource centre, a library and an education centre. Malindi town is a 12th century Swahili town, around which resorts, bars, casinos and shopping centres have grown up.
Arabuko Sokoke Forest, Mida Creek and Watamu Marine National Park form one large ecosystem supporting a huge diversity of plant, animal and birdlife. The marine park is enclosed by Malindi Marine National Park. Marine life includes fish, turtles, dugongs and crabs. Activities include windsurfing, snorkelling, water-skiing, scuba diving and trips in glass bottomed boats. Mida Creek, bordering Watamu Marine National Park, is a large tidal inlet with productive mangrove forests. The high diversity of mangrove species provides refuge to both resident and migrant bird species. The suspended boardwalk makes an ideal place from which to bird watch or enjoy a sundowner. Arabuko Sokoke Forest, an indigenous coastal forest, is home to over 500 species of birds, mammals, reptiles and butterflies. Nature walks, bird watching and night tours are all on offer. Nyari viewpoint and the tree platform have wonderful views. It is also possible to camp in the forest or on the tree platform.
Gede Ruins are one of the most significant and attractive Swahili ruins on the coast. Established in the 13th century, Gede became a trading post. Ming Chinese porcelain and glazed earthenware from Persia have been found here. The compound, consisting of houses, palaces, mosques and tombs, was mysteriously abandoned in the 17th or 18th century. Guided tours and nature walks are recommended.
At the entrance to the Gede ruins, Kipepeo Butterfly Project gives visitors a chance to see conservation in action. The project was started by a zoologist from the University of Nairobi, and breeds and sells butterflies taken from Arabuko Sokoke Forest. Profits support local conservation projects; butterflies are on display in the Butterfly House.
