Watamu Marine Park Travel Guide

Watamu Marine National Park is a protected area on the Kenyan coast, located in Kilifi County approximately 120 km north of Mombasa. The park was established to safeguard its coral reef ecosystem, which is home to a wide variety of fish, coral, and other marine life. It is a primary destination for snorkeling, diving, and observing marine animals in their natural habitat.

The area's biodiversity is significant, with records of over 1,000 fish species and 150 species of coral. The park and its surrounding mangrove forests also support a large number of bird species, making it an important site for both marine and coastal conservation.

Planning Your Visit

A successful trip to Watamu requires some planning around seasonal conditions and park regulations.

Best Times for Marine Activities

The ideal period for most marine activities is from October to April. During these months, the sea is generally calmer and water visibility is higher, which creates better conditions for snorkeling and diving. This timeframe also aligns with the presence of larger marine life like whale sharks and manta rays, though sightings are not guaranteed.

Turtle Nesting and Conservation

Watamu is an important nesting site for several species of sea turtles, including the Green and Hawksbill turtles. Nesting and hatching occur year-round. The conservation work is largely managed by local groups like the Watamu Turtle Watch, who work to protect the nests and rehabilitate sick or injured turtles. Visitors can often learn about these efforts during their stay.

Park Accessibility and Fees

The park is accessible by road from Mombasa or Malindi. The nearest airport is Malindi International Airport (MYD), which is about a 30-minute drive away. The main entry point to the marine park is managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). Current entrance fees vary for citizens, residents, and non-residents.

Activities in the Park and Surrounding Area

The activities in Watamu are centered on the marine environment and the adjacent Mida Creek.

Dolphin Watching and Boat Tours

Organized boat tours are the most common way to experience the park. Most trips are run by licensed operators registered with the Watamu Marine Association, ensuring they follow safety and conservation guidelines. These tours offer access to dolphin watching areas and offshore coral gardens. Visitors can choose between a concise half-day tour or a more comprehensive full-day excursion that includes lunch.

Snorkeling and Diving

The park’s main attraction is its coral reef ecosystem. The coral gardens are easily accessible by boat and offer clear, shallow waters suitable for snorkeling. The area around Turtle Bay is a popular spot with a high diversity of reef fish. Several local dive centers also offer scuba diving trips to the outer reefs for certified divers.

Mida Creek Boardwalk and Bird Watching

Adjacent to the marine park is Mida Creek, a large tidal inlet with extensive mangrove forests. This area is a critical habitat for migratory birds. The best way to explore it is via the Mida Creek Boardwalk, a suspended walkway that allows for bird watching and learning about the mangrove ecosystem without disturbing the environment.

Available Excursions

We offer two primary packages for experiencing the park, each designed for different schedules and interests.

• Half-Day Snorkel & Dolphin Tour: A 4-hour trip focused on the core activities of dolphin watching and snorkeling.
• Full-Day Tour with Seafood Lunch: An 8-hour immersive experience that includes extended snorkeling, lunch, and a cultural performance.

Accommodation and Dining

Accommodation in the Watamu area ranges from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Many hotels, such as the well-known Hemingways Watamu, are located directly on the beach with views of the marine park. The town also has a variety of restaurants offering fresh seafood and local Swahili cuisine.