This calm coastal town on Kenya's Indian Ocean shore has active fishing communities and beachfront resorts. Its airport connects visitors to white sand beaches and marine life.
Malindi, a coastal city 120 kilometers northeast of Mombasa, sits along the Indian Ocean's white sand beaches. You'll find gelaterias and pizzerias next to coral-stone buildings with carved Swahili doors. Walk past the Vasco da Gama Pillar, swim among parrotfish at Watamu Marine National Park, explore the stone corridors of Gedi Ruins, or spot golden-rumped elephant shrews in Arabuko Sokoke Forest.
Swimming and Marine Activities
You can swim and snorkel in Malindi's calm waters. At Watamu Beach, 15 kilometers south of the city, watch sea turtles and dolphins swim near the shore. The coral reefs support communities of angelfish, butterfly fish, and triggerfish. Local operators run glass-bottom boat rides, scuba diving trips, and snorkeling excursions in the 24°C waters.
Italian Community and Culture
Since the 1960s, Italian residents have shaped Malindi's character. Italian restaurants, gelato shops, and delis line the streets. You'll hear Italian spoken alongside Swahili and English, and find Italian products like wines and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese in local supermarkets.
Wildlife and Forest Walks
The Arabuko Sokoke Forest has 230 bird species and small mammals including the golden-rumped elephant shrew. In Watamu Marine National Park, walk through Mida Creek's mangrove forest on raised boardwalks to see wading birds and marine life. Local guides lead walking tours through both areas.
Historical Sites
The Vasco da Gama Pillar marks the Portuguese explorer's 1498 journey to India. The nearby Portuguese Chapel, built in the early 16th century, is East Africa's oldest Christian church. The Malindi Museum, housed in the House of Columns, contains artifacts and documents about the town's maritime past.
Transportation and Climate
Daily flights connect Malindi with Nairobi, Mombasa, and Lamu. The paved road from Mombasa takes about two hours by car or bus. Temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C year-round. Two rainy seasons occur: long rains from April to July and short rains between October and November.
