Mombasa Beaches, Kenya
I will never forget floating over the Masai Mara in a hot air balloon observing the wildebeest herds below, it was my 'Out of Africa' fantasy come true.
Mombasa is Kenya's largest coastal city and it's a typical modern African affair although life is considerably more relaxed than in other east African cities. Mombasa is a real cultural melting, pot here you will encounter Swahilis, Omanis, Indians, Chinese, British and Africans from across the continent. The Old Town is full of character, with its narrow winding alleyways and old Swahili houses. Undoubtedly the main attraction of Mombasa is the string of beautiful beaches which stretch south all the way to the Tanzanian border.
Popular beach resorts north and south of Mombasa include Malindi, Watamu and Diani. Tourists are attracted to Malindi for its beaches and offshore coral reefs. The tropical currents and trade winds along the northern coastline bring the Big Game fish at certain times of the year. This tranquil haven is home to several well established resorts, and many private guesthouses scattered through the forest along the deserted shore. Malindi Marine Park is one of Kenya's best marine parks with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and diving. South of Mombasa is a tropical paradise of palm fringed white sand beaches. The protective reefs have created ideal beaches with calm, inviting waters. Days are filled with sunshine and nights are balmy and warm with gentle sea breezes. The majority of beach tourists from Europe go to Diani Beach. It is one continuous strip of souvenir stalls, beach houses and all-inclusive luxury resorts.
Kenya's Lamu Island is utterly enchanting. As Kenya's oldest living town it has retained all the charm and character built up over centuries. There are no cars so donkeys are the main means of transport. Children play in the narrow streets, Muslim men chat on street corners and women in their black buibui eils busy themselves through doorways. Keep an eye out for the intricately carved wooden doors and lintels for which the island is famous. For the traveller, Lamu is a hypnotically exotic experience, made even more enjoyable by the relaxed and welcoming attitudes of the locals. To visit Lamu is to enter another world, and the visitor finds themselves becoming a part of this world. Life slows down, and long days are spent strolling along the waterfront, exploring the town or relaxing on the beaches.
Dhow safaris can take you beyond Lamu into the surrounding archipelago, where isolated villages, ancient ruins and a few luxurious and exclusive resorts lie hidden among the islands of Manda, Siyu, Pate and Kiwayu.
Lamu is best accessed by air. There are scheduled flights daily from Nairobi, Mombasa, Diani Beach and Malindi. The island is serviced by an airstrip on neighbouring Manda Island. The strip can also be used by private charters.