Watamu

Although only a small Village Watamu situated north of Mombasa has developed an international reputation for it's white sand, reef protected beaches and as the location of Kenya's first Marine Park. With over 600 species of fish in just 10 square kilometres, Watamu justly deserves it's claim to be one of the World's best snorkelling and dive spots. Between Malindi and Watamu, the mysterious Gede Ruins, the tiny Arubuko Sokoke National Park and the Mida Creek provide three more compelling reasons to visit this area. The Mida Creek reserve is formed of extensive mangrove forests, warm shallow waters, large areas of mud flats at low tide, which hosts many local birds and is also the winter home of many migrants such as the Crab Plover, Curlew, Sandpiper, Whimbrel and Sanderling. The Arubuko Sokoke Forest is East Africa's largest remaining area of indigenous coastal forest and home to six species of globally threatened birds, including Clarke's Weaver, which is found nowhere else in the World. Rare mammals are also present, including the Golden-rumped Elephant Shrew, Bushy-tailed Mongoose and Ader's Duiker in addition to over 260 species of buttefly. The Gede Ruins date from the late 13th or early 14th centuary and is thought to have been a thriving Islamic trading centre which was mysteriously abandoned in the early 17th centuary. Excavated since 1927, many areas have been revealed, including the Great Mosque, the Palace, several residential houses and pillar tombs. Surrounded by tall shady trees, a walk through Gedi is a must for anyone interested in Kenya's history. Watamu offers a number of places to stay which suit most budgets, ranging from bed and breakfast guest houses to a five star hotel.

The coast of Kenya features 480 kilometres of silver white sandy beaches fringed with palms, fascinating mangrove swamps and magical creeks, all washed by the turquoise water of the Indian Ocean. For much of it's length, from Malindi in the North to Vanga in the South, the shore is protected by a living coral reef. More than 250 brilliantly coloured species of fish, marine plants and other creatures live in the sheltered lagoons. The Marine Parks of Watamu, Malindi, Mombasa and Shimoni protect these reefs and the waters they embrace. The reefs, coral garden and lagoons are a paradise for snorkelling and scuba diving whilst the open waters a mecca for game fishing.