EAST AFRICAN BEACH HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE

Author: Content AdminDate: Thu Aug,2023

As if the incredible collection of premier wildlife parks wasn’t enough, Kenya presents you with 563 km (333 miles) of fabulous coastline to spice up your Kenyan holiday adventure
Crystalline sand beaches like Mombasa, Diani, Malindi, Watamu, and Lamu aren’t just exotic names – they’re your invitation to relax on uncrowded shorelines, hugging the blue/green tides of the balmy Indian Ocean. What a perfect way to indulge in an East African holiday.
Additionally, Bonfire Adventures can take you island hopping to nearby Zanzibar and its beautiful south coast beaches and a visit to the historic old-world quarters of Stone Town.
Swim, snorkel, dive, windsurf or just meditate on the serene beauty gifted to us by nature at these golden seaside wonderlands.

BEST BEACH DESTINATIONS IN EAST AFRICA
DIANI
Not once, but three times Diani was voted Africa’s finest beach destination. Immaculate and uncrowded, Diani’s waters are crystalline and shallow, perfect for wading and snorkeling. Head out to its two coral reefs to find treasures like starfish, crabs, sea cucumber, and a kaleidoscope of bright tropical fish. The nightlife here is colorful as well – an international scene of pulsing clubs and restaurants.

THINGS TO DO
Colobus Conservation Centre – this sanctuary for the black-and-white colobus monkey nourishes orphaned creatures going through the rehabilitation process. You can visit and also go for forest walks organized by the Centre.
Kaya Kinondo – Considered a sacred forest, you must respect its traditions before entering: no headgear, no kissing, and you must wrap a black sarong around your waist. Your guide will explain all, along with the many plant species found inside this grove.
Water Fun – Besides swimming, snorkeling, and SCUBA diving, Diani offers several more robust adventure activities. Ever go kite surfing or jet skiing? How about sky-diving? You can tap into your inner daredevil here.


MALINDI/WATAMU - TWIN RESORTS
These neighboring coastal resort towns both offer beautiful stretches of beach set upon the placid Indian Ocean. Watamu is a bit more laid back of the two but you’ll want to check out Malindi’s marine national park and its historic old town. Both have excellent restaurants, with an emphasis on Italian cuisine at Malindi.
Watamu is a jumping-off point for nearby Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve, a dense, green paradise of jungle-like park where you’ll find a world of butterflies and the last stomping ground for the tiny golden-rumped elephant shrew.

THINGS TO DO
Malindi Marine National Park – Explore this undersea world of green sea turtles, colorful fish, and organ-pipe coral. You may even spot mako and whale sharks.
Bio-Ken Snake Farm – It may not look like it but Bio-Ken is a world-class facility specializing in snakes and anti-venom research. The excellent tour here will take you up close to the black mamba, horned viper, puff adder, and the black spitting cobra.
Watamu Turtle Watch – True to its name, this center protects the hawksbill and green turtles that lay their eggs on Watamu Beach. Visit the rehabilitation center to see turtles taken in for injury or illness and learn about these special reptiles.

MOMBASA - KENYA'S COASTAL CITY
Immerse yourself in Mombasa’s variety of cultures – Indian, Swahili, Muslim, Portugues – reflected in the city’s architecture, cuisine, and customs. Explore the back alleyways and bazaars of Old Town, enjoy an evening sail on an authentic Arab dhow, or just relax on the welcoming sands of its signature coast. Where else can you go for a camel ride on the beach, as traders have done for centuries?
From Nairobi, you can get to Mombasa by road, rail, or plane. And we offer both road and air safaris to all the parks starting here at Kenya’s second-largest city.
THINGS TO DO
Fort Jesus – This commanding 16th Century fort has been controlled by various Europeans, Muslims, and African victors. Explore its massive ramparts and cultural relics.
Spice Market – This loud and busy bazaar is a throwback to another century with its hawking and dealing. You’ll be draped in the scents of cardamon, turmeric, and curry, along with lots of tempting street food.
The Tusks – Giant replicas of elephant tusks will greet you on Moi Avenue as your welcome to the city.

LAMU ISLAND - A UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE
Of course, the beaches are lovely, but folks also come here to discover the tiny back streets of Lamu Town as donkeys squeeze by in this ancient Swahili settlement.
And you may get swept up in the polyglot of cultures on display in Lamus’s architecture and lifestyle – for 700 years traders from the Arab world, India, China, and Southeast Asia have been drawn to this island. The old world feel is enhancred by a ban on automobiles… hence the use of donkeys to transport persons and material.
Nearby Shela Beach is home to an array of distinctive mosques and attracts visitors for new-age cuisine, yoga, and occasional celebrity sightings.

THINGS TO DO
Lamu Museum – One of the best in Kenya, it is on the waterfront and is a deep introduction to Swahili culture. Learn about local boat building, and the work of Lamu artisans as seen on many elaborately carved local doorways.
Lamu Market – Alive with local atmosphere, you’ll find the daily catch of seafood such as tuna but also fruits and vegetables.
Shela Beach – Long and pristine, the sands here are an uncrowded respite from the activity of Lamu.

ZANZIBAR ISLAND - A PALM FRINGED ADVENTURE
The beaches here are spectacular, set on turquoise waters and miles of pure, white sand. And there are so many to choose from! You’ll find some of the finest in the world on this unique island where you’ll swim, snorkel, and discover an undersea landscape of brilliant marine life at the nearby coral gardens.
Look for dolphins swimming in their active and colorful pods near the shore. Zanzibar (its official name is Unguja) is an accessible paradise we can bring you to before or after your African safari.
THINGS TO DO
Stone Town – In Zanzibar City, you’ll discover the ancient quarter of Stone Town, one of the oldest Swahili towns in East Africa. Enjoy its winding streets and beautiful architecture. Plus you’ll find a vibrant and delicious street food scene.
House of Wonders – Built by a sultan in the 19th century, this impressive structure of balconies rises above the town near the waterfront. The first building here to offer electricity and running water – the wonders of its day – the old façade still impresses.
Forodhani Gardens – A quaintly designed public space, the gardens are a central meeting spot with a restaurant, cafes, and food stalls. A visit here is a genteel way to integrate into the local scene.