There are many distinctive issues to do in Malindi. A small city alongside the northern coast of Kenya that’s wealthy in historical past and tradition. It’s additionally identified for its stunning seashores and rustic seaside resorts, making it the most effective vacation locations in Kenya.
Whereas in Malindi, you’ll be able to go to a museum, go snorkeling or scuba diving, catch sunrises, and many extra. It’s also possible to take a day journey to a nationwide park for a wildlife safari or to Mombasa for some historic websites. After these experiences, I like to recommend enjoyable on a seaside or consuming at a neighborhood restaurant.
My attraction for Malindi is predicated on my love for historical past and rest. The place is sort of a dwelling museum which I typically revisit to see what’s modified. Many explorers and vacationers have handed by Malindi, whereas others have known as it dwelling for ages.
Vacationers like Ernest Hemingway, Zheng He, and Vasco da Gama have been right here and left their marks. Nonetheless, it’s the locals, residents (principally Italians), and vacationer attraction websites that make the place most magical.
As a neighborhood Kenyan and somebody who has visited the coast a number of instances, I’m excited to share with you my favourite Malindi sights. I’ve additionally included data on easy methods to get there, the most effective locations to remain, and eating places. Though it’s fairly small, there are such a lot of locations to go to in Malindi – be certain so as to add it to your Kenya itinerary!
Greatest Issues To Do in Malindi
Try this record of a few of the most enjoyable locations to see and issues to do in Malindi. It’s primarily based on sights I’ve visited and enjoyable actions that I’ve skilled myself. Touring round Kenya is thrilling and the coast and Malindi have so much to supply guests.
1. Go Scuba Diving or Deep Sea Fishing
The Kenyan coast contrasts the wild deserts, safari parks, and delightful landscapes upcountry, and for this reason many guests head south for the sand, solar, and sea. Nonetheless, it’s not devoid of journey.
For these inclined to scuba diving, the coral reefs in Malindi are a few of the most stunning on this planet. They’re crammed with numerous species of marine life, together with colourful fish (like snappers, filefish, angelfish, and groupers). Hundreds of divers flock there yearly to plunge and marvel on the world beneath the floor.
Malindi Marine Nationwide Park is the place to go if you wish to take pleasure in scuba diving. For the newest costs, schedules, and extra data, try Bluefin Diving. They provide the most effective diving journeys alongside the northern coast.
Apart from scuba diving, deep sea/offshore fishing is one other of the most effective issues to do in Malindi. The game was popularised by Ernest Hemingway when he visited the place within the Sixties. Test along with your resort to see if they will prepare a fishing journey.
Handle: Marinepark Rd off Casuarina Rd.
2. Discover the Seashores in Malindi
Though much less well-known than those in Diani and Watamu, Malindi seashores are spectacular. They’ve golden and white sands, appropriate for rest, lengthy walks, or jogging (in case you’re so inclined). Shut to those seashores, you’ll additionally discover a few of the greatest seaside villas and resorts in Kenya.
There are a number of seashores in Malindi together with Golden, Casuarina, Marine Park, and Silversands. Golden Seaside is the most well-liked attributable to its simple accessibility. For watersport actions and seaside facilities, head to Marine Park.
Handle: Click on on every seaside for instructions – Silversands, Golden, Casuarina, Marine Park, and Mayungu.
3. Take pleasure in a Full Day Safari at Tsavo East Nationwide Park
The Kenyan coast is usually for rest, however in case you fancy wildlife safaris, be a part of a tour to Tsavo East Nationwide Park. It’s positioned about 4 hours from Malindi and is likely one of the greatest safari parks in Kenya.
Apart from game-watching (elephants, leopards, lions, and different animals), Tsavo East is dwelling to different scenic sights equivalent to stunning landscapes, Mudanda rock formations, and the eye-catching Lugard Falls.
One of the best ways to go to the park is by becoming a member of an organized safari. Whereas it will not be probably the most inexpensive factor to do in Malindi, costs for such an excellent expertise are nonetheless very affordable. It’s also possible to entry the parks by highway by means of the Sala Gate.
If you happen to intend to spend an evening in Tsavo East Nationwide Park, I like to recommend reserving your keep at Ashnil Aruba Lodge – an exquisite bush camp that includes a restaurant, an outside pool, and tents that overlooks Aruba dam.
Handle: Click on right here to see the situation of Tsavo East Nationwide Park. The park is greatest reached through the Sala Gate.
4. Strive Swahili Dishes (One of many Greatest Issues to Do in Malindi)
Though I don’t contemplate myself a foodie, that is one in all my favourite issues to do in Malindi. When visiting the coastal city, I all the time pattern a few of the scrumptious Swahili dishes – and it is best to too. That is a few of the greatest meals to strive in Kenya.
The native culinary scene is various. It gives numerous meals that mirror the locations’ wealthy tradition. You’ll be able to start by making an attempt biryani (fragrant rice cooked with spices and hen or beef), pilau, and wali wa nazi (coconut rice). Additionally, strive snacks equivalent to samosa and pastries like mandazi/mahamri (a type of fried bread).
Along with the Swahili delicacies, which has African, Indian, and Arabian influences, you can too indulge your style buds in Italian flavors. As a result of Malindi’s sizable inhabitants of Italians, pizza, pasta, and numerous seafood are available.
Handle: Try Seafront Swahili Dishes and Child Marrow – my favourite Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria.
5. Go Swimming and Snorkeling
As talked about earlier, Malindi Marine Nationwide Park is an underwater paradise. It’s additionally my most well-liked spot to go swimming and snorkeling. Throughout my journeys to Malindi, I all the time be certain to hitch a visit to the coral heads, that are full of colourful fish.
If this stunning expertise appeals to you, make sure to head to Malindi Marine Nationwide Park. You’ll discover skilled guides who will take you to the coral gardens on glass-bottomed boats for round $15 per particular person. Try marine boat excursions primarily based contained in the park.
Swimming can also be attainable on Malindi seashores because the water is heat and the ocean is calm. Nonetheless, it’s greatest to put on sneakers throughout low tide to keep away from harm from corals in some locations.
Handle: Click on right here for instructions to the marine park.
6. Study Historical past on the Malindi Museum
I really like historical past, and my first cease in any new place I go to is normally a museum. This informational website teaches nearly all the pieces concerning the place and varieties a superb foundation for what to anticipate and sit up for throughout your keep.
Apart from internet hosting historic data and artifacts, the Malindi Museum is a relic. The constructing on which it stands was constructed in 1891 by Adhussein Gulamhussein because the “Home of Columns.” It then modified fingers between authorities departments (like fisheries and wildlife) till 2004, when it grew to become a museum.
Throughout the museum, you’ll be able to count on to study concerning the historical past of Malindi, its folks, and the fauna discovered within the Indian Ocean.
Handle: The museum is definitely accessible from wherever on the town, whether or not by foot or automobile. Click on right here for instructions.
7. See Vasco da Gama Pillar
Vasco da Gama, a well-known Portuguese explorer, and navigator, sailed the East African coast within the late fifteenth century. He was among the many first Europeans to set foot and depart his prints in Malindi.
When Vasco da Gama arrived on Easter Sunday, 1498, the Sultan of Malindi welcomed him and his crew. He gave them meals provisions and somebody to cause them to India (Ahmad ibn Majid). On returning to Malindi, the explorer constructed a pillar as a “thanks” gesture to the Sultan for his generosity and steerage.
Vasco da Gama Pillar is likely one of the most visited Malindi sights. The monument (underneath the Museums of Kenya) has been relocated a number of instances attributable to silts that erode coral reefs and is now positioned on the seafront in Shela Neighborhood.
If you happen to intend to see the pillar, I like to recommend getting a ticket from the Malindi Museum. For less than $3, you’ll be able to go to the museum, see the Vasco da Gama Pillar, and the Portuguese Chapel.
Handle: Click on right here to see the instructions to the Vasco da Gama Pillar.
8. Go to the Portuguese Chapel
One other of my favourite issues to do in Malindi is to go to the Portuguese Chapel (St. Francis Xavier Chapel) – a small place of worship constructed by Vasco da Gama’s crew in 1502.
Round 1545, St. Francis Xavier, a catholic missionary, landed in Malindi and was delighted to see a logo of Portugal there. He stayed on for just a few days, buried a seaman, and went on to Goa.
The chapel is roughly 5 sq. meters. It options white partitions of coral rocks, a rooftop cross, ten wood benches, and an altar. Exterior the chapel, there’s a graveyard the place it’s believed 36 persons are buried. Amongst these persons are sailors and a few of the city’s outstanding individuals.
Handle: Click on right here for instructions to the Portuguese Chapel.
9. Take a Day Journey to Mombasa
After nearly 100 years in Malindi, the Portuguese shifted their base to Mombasa the place they established a fort (Fort Jesus) to protect the outdated port. The fort is positioned on the fringe of Mombasa Previous City, which can also be a beautiful place to go to and wander round.
To higher respect the Portuguese significance in Malindi, I like to recommend taking a day journey to Mombasa. Along with visiting Fort Jesus and the Previous City, you’ll be able to go to different vacationer sights and benefit from the fascinating issues to do in Mombasa.
Try this thrilling tour of Mombasa Metropolis that features a go to to Fort Jesus.
Handle: Right here is the situation of Fort Jesus and the Mombasa Previous City.
10. Go to Hell’s Kitchen in Marafa
Additional north of Malindi (about 30 Km) in Marafa is the place you’ll discover one in all my favourite sights alongside the Kenyan coast – Hell’s Kitchen. The melancholy is an eroded sandstone canyon with gorgeous cliffs and rocks of crimson, pink, and orange hues.
If you happen to can wait till the night, this masterpiece of nature is bound to shock you. Every sundown paints the gorges in fiery colours, like a painter’s palette in movement. It’s a very memorable expertise.
The local people manages this marvelous attraction, which they name “Nyari” – the place damaged by itself. The charge for this vacationer website in Malindi is $10, which fits towards serving to the group and managing the location. Whereas there, you’ll be able to rent a neighborhood information to tell you extra concerning the place. They normally cost round $5 for a one-hour tour.
One of the best ways to go to Hell’s Kitchen is by becoming a member of this guided day journey. It’s also possible to rent a taxi from Malindi city (or request your resort/host to hail one for you). Study extra about the highly-rated journey to Hell’s Kitchen.
Handle: Hell’s Kitchen in Marafa
Top-of-the-line free issues to do in Malindi is to discover the city on foot. It’s a certain means of understanding the historical past, tradition, and locals’ lifestyle. Wandering alongside its streets offers you a memorable expertise of the coastal city.
Start out of your resort and easily stroll in all places. Search for distinctive structure alongside the way in which (normally stone homes of limestone). You’ll additionally see locals doing enterprise – in outlets, eating places, and bus stops.
Among the issues that fascinate me in Malindi are the Swahili curved doorways. These wood works are a typical characteristic in lots of buildings. In keeping with a neighborhood I spoke with, they arrive in several types primarily based on the influencing tradition. My favourite was the Zanzibar-style door which had iron tiers on it. Others embody Gujerati, Oman, Bajuni, Siu, and Kijumwa doorways.
Try this useful resource to study extra about Swahili doorways.
Handle: Click on right here for the situation of Malindi City.
12. Catch Dawn or Sundown on the Malindi Pier
Whereas nonetheless exploring Malindi city, cease by the favored Malindi Pier. This 400-meter-long concrete bridge spans deep into the ocean and gives a spectacular spot to catch sundown or dawn.
I extremely suggest visiting between 6 am-8 am for the dawn. Throughout this time, few persons are round, and also you’ll doubtless have the ability to watch fishermen returning to shore. Head there between 4 pm-6 pm for the most effective probability of a sundown.
This landmark straddles Golden Seaside – the most effective locations to loosen up and really feel the ocean vibe whereas in Malindi.
Handle: Click on right here for instructions to Malindi Pier.
13. Discover the Sand Dunes in Mambrui
About 20 kilometers north of Malindi is the city of Mambrui. Most buildings there have a deep Muslim affect and in case you go searching, it’s simple to hyperlink the place with the traditional Arab buying and selling that occurred there.
You’ll discover a tremendous attraction as you head towards the ocean exterior the city – the Mambrui Dunes. The great unfold of dunes stretches from Mambrui Seaside to Ngomeni village. It’s the most effective issues to see in Malindi and the best method to get there’s to rent a taxi from Malindi city. Your resort also can prepare for a similar.
A couple of kilometers offshore from this space is the San Marco website – a rocket launch pad by the Italian House Administration.
In keeping with numerous sources, the location is likely one of the components related to the excessive inhabitants of Italians in Malindi. The engineers who labored on the location arrived in Malindi and popularised the city by making it dwelling. This attracted vacationers and expatriates who settled in, therefore the nickname “Little Italy.”
Handle: Click on right here to see the situation of the Mambrui Dunes.
14. Go Kitesurfing at Che Shale
Along with scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming, there are different water sports activities actions in Malindi. Water-skiing, kitesurfing, and wind-surfing are some to call just a few. Motels alongside the shoreline have launched dhows and sails on surfboards for these looking for a little bit adrenaline.
My favourite resort in Malindi for kitesurfing is Che Shale, a seaside resort (25 Km north of Malindi city) that organizes browsing journeys for guests of all ranges. Additionally they have one of many pioneering kite faculties in Kenya (Kitesurfing in Kenya & East Africa).
In addition to browsing, Che Shale gives cruise journeys on their stunning wood dhow (Sawa Sawa). The dhow was inbuilt Mozambique down south and sailed to Malindi. A full-day tour on the Sawa Sawa consists of meals and actions equivalent to swimming and snorkeling. Click on right here to ebook your keep at Che Shale Resort & Kitesurf Heart.
Handle: Click on right here for instructions to Che Shale – alongside Lamu Street.
15. See the Hanging Gardens of Malindi
To shut this record of the most effective issues to see and do in Malindi is The Hanging Gardens, an Orchid nursery that focuses on numerous species together with the Tillandsia (Spanish Moss). What they do with vegetation right here is outstanding, and the expertise is effectively value including to your itinerary.
In addition to seeing numerous kinds of orchids you doubtless have by no means seen earlier than, you’ll even have the chance to buy them. Visits to this middle are by appointment solely – to ebook a go to, contact the proprietor by means of their web site right here.
Handle: The Hanging Gardens of Malindi is about 3 Km from city. Click on right here for instructions.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Malindi
Now that you already know the most effective locations to go to, listed below are my recommended itineraries on your journey to Malindi. Be happy to combine the vacationer sights and websites to fulfill your tastes and pursuits.
1 Day in Malindi Itinerary
Begin your day with breakfast at your resort or resort in Malindi. From there, take a taxi or tuk-tuk to city. Right here, you’ll go to Malindi Museum and be issued a day’s ticket. After studying concerning the historical past and gaining some deeper details about the world, head down alongside Silversand Street. Cease on the Portuguese Chapel earlier than continuing to the Vasco da Gama Pillar.
After a half day of historical past, head again to city for lunch. Check out native delicacies on the Seafront Swahili Dishes. Their hen biryani and tamarind juice are my favourite – you’ll be able to’t go unsuitable.
From there, head to Malindi Marine Nationwide Park the place you’ll be able to stroll alongside the seaside or go swimming and snorkeling. End your day with dinner at Child Marrow.
2-3 Days in Malindi Itinerary
Begin your first day studying the historical past and tradition of Malindi. And afterward, take a stroll on the town admiring the structure and wooden items of furnishings. Make sure you additionally go to Malindi Museum, Portuguese Chapel, and Vasco da Gama Pillar. Earlier than the day’s finish, eat at a Swahili or Italian restaurant that catches your eye, (or nostril!).
Spend your second day having fun with the ocean and sand. Loosen up on one of many magnificent Malindi seashores or take part in water sports activities. Malindi Marine Nationwide Park is the right spot for this; go swimming, scuba diving, deep sea fishing, and snorkeling from there.
The third day is greatest fitted to a day journey exterior Malindi city. You’ll be able to be a part of this thrilling safari to Tsavo East Nationwide Park or head north to see the Mambrui Dunes. Hell’s Kitchen in Marafa can also be an ideal escape for a day.
1 Week in Malindi Itinerary
If in case you have seven days in Malindi, mix rest, journey, historical past, and watersports at your leisure.
Spend the primary two days wandering round Malindi city. Begin with the historic websites after which hit the seaside for watersports and rest. Malindi Museum and Malindi Marine Nationwide Park are the most effective locations to base your adventures on.
On the third day, head northwards and ebook a resort for 2 days. I like to recommend staying on the Che Shale. You’ll be able to go to the Mambrui Dunes and Hell’s Kitchen in Marafa, and in case you’re extra interested in the ocean, Che Shale gives numerous water-related actions together with kitesurfing and dhow cruise journeys.
Head again to city on the fifth day and go to two of its greatest vacationer websites The Hanging Gardens. End the day watching the sundown from the Malindi Pier after which take pleasure in dinner at a neighborhood restaurant.
Spend the final two days in Malindi enjoyable and revisiting your greatest sights just like the seaside or marine park. It’s also possible to take a day journey to see Fort Jesus in Mombasa or wildlife at Tsavo East Nationwide Park. If you happen to go for Tsavo, I like to recommend staying on the Ashnil Aruba Lodge on your final evening.
The place to Keep in Malindi
Similar to you’d discover in different coastal locations equivalent to Diani, there are few neighborhoods in Malindi. Nonetheless, the place has many vacation properties, elegant residences, and even luxurious seaside villas.
Beneath are a few of the greatest locations to remain in Malindi for vacationers:
Beachfront Penthouse – Greatest for {Couples} and Small Households
Most individuals go to Malindi to benefit from the solar, sand, and sea views, and there’s no higher place to expertise this than the Beachfront Penthouse. This stunning 2-bedroom residence has wonderful ocean views and in addition options all mandatory facilities appropriate for households, solo vacationers, and {couples}. Click on right here to ebook.
Beverly Suites – Greatest for Group Vacationers and Households
Not everybody travels solo or as a pair. So, in case you’re a gaggle of as much as 5 trying to find a unbelievable seaside villa in Malindi, the Beverly Suites might be excellent. The power has a swimming pool, and all of the models are totally outfitted for self-catering friends. Click on right here for extra data.
Primeshade Guesthouse – Greatest for Funds Vacationers
After I final visited Malindi, a backpacker’s hostel didn’t exist. Nearly all of the lodging amenities I discovered have been both mid-range or high-end. Thankfully, nevertheless, I’ve since stumbled upon Primeshade Guesthouse. For round $25 per evening, the power is well-priced for finances vacationers.
Their rooms are spacious, with a clear toilet and free toiletries. Additionally they have an outside swimming pool, a backyard, a shared lounge, a restaurant, and free personal parking. Click on right here for extra data.
Leopard Level Luxurious Seaside Resort – Greatest for All Vacationers
Let’s face it. Generally we love a luxurious resort; just like the one discovered at Leopard Level the place we get pampered with all the pieces, and all now we have to do is loosen up – no self-catering or dealing with unruly backpackers in a hostel. It’s simply consuming, swimming, going to the seaside, working by means of the cocktail record, and attacking the mini-bar.
If you happen to’re after some splendor, this 5-star seaside resort in Malindi is your greatest wager. Click on right here to search out out extra.
Kilili Baharini Resort – greatest for first-time guests and {couples}
If you happen to’re in search of issues to do in Malindi for {couples} and locations to remain, this resort is greatest for you. The small boutique resort solely has a small variety of rooms, making certain privateness and luxury. It additionally encompasses a personal seaside to loosen up and benefit from the ocean breeze.
That includes elegant rooms with personal verandas, a beachside restaurant, and swimming pools, Kilili guarantees nothing however a memorable expertise. E book right here now.
Greatest Eating places in Malindi
Try my record of a few of the greatest eating places in Malindi. Right here you’ll be able to take pleasure in Swahili dishes like biryani, eat pizza, order drinks, and join with locals.
Seafront Swahili Dishes
Because the identify suggests, Seafront is an genuine restaurant in Malindi for Swahili meals. Apart from biryani hen and samaki wa kupaka (fish in coconut curry), they serve some scrumptious seafood. I additionally love their tasty ukwaju (tamarind juice).
Child Marrow – Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
Child Marrow is likely one of the greatest Italian eating places in Malindi. Right here, you’ll be able to take pleasure in a big selection of Italian delicacies like pizza and pasta. Additionally they serve seafood (fish, prawns, and octopus) and native dishes (ugali and nyama choma). After consuming, you’ll be able to wash down the meals with a glass of wine or beer.
Check out their samosas, fish fillet, and attractive dessert truffles. Click on right here to ebook a desk/make a reservation.
Rosada Seaside Restaurant
Rosada is a good seaside restaurant with a relaxed vibe that gives numerous dishes. It’s an off-the-cuff hangout joint with a pleasing environment and good music. Along with seafood equivalent to fish and prawns, they’ve nice native delicacies. Don’t depart the restaurant with out tasting the pizza – it’s fairly nice.
Attending to Malindi
Beneath are the most effective methods to get to Malindi from Nairobi, Mombasa, and different locations in Kenya:
By Airplane
Flying to Malindi is the best choice because it saves time, which you should use to expertise extra locations. A home airport serves the city with day by day scheduled flights from Nairobi, Mombasa, Lamu, and Diani.
Some main home airways to Malindi Airport embody Kenya Airways, Jambojet, and Air Kenya. As soon as on the airport, taxis can be found to take you wherever round Malindi.
Try switch providers from Moi Worldwide Airport (Mombasa) to Malindi.
By Bus
Malindi is linked by long-distance buses from Nairobi and Mombasa on an everyday schedule. Most of those buses are protected and comfy, making the journey bearable.
From Nairobi, you’ll be able to board the luxurious buses alongside River Street. If you happen to’re coming from Mombasa, buses to Malindi are boarded from Mwembe Tayari or alongside Abdel Nassy Street.
The main bus corporations in Malindi embody Tahmeed Coach, Trendy Coast, Buscar, and Dreamline Categorical.
By Practice
There are three day by day trains from Nairobi to Mombasa operated by Kenya Railways. The scenic journey from the capital metropolis to the coastal metropolis takes 5-6 hours.
As soon as in Mombasa Terminus, you’ll be able to take a taxi or a shared van for the two-hour journey to Malindi. Alternatively, you may get this personal switch with an skilled tour information.
Getting Round Malindi
Listed below are the most effective methods to get round whereas sightseeing in Malindi:
Strolling
For brief distances, it’s greatest to stroll round. The city is protected, and a few of its sights are shut to one another.
Bikes and Tuk-Tuks
There are many bike taxis and tuk-tuks in Malindi. They’re inexpensive and might take you wherever round and outdoors city. Request your resort to hyperlink you up with a dependable driver.
Utilizing Employed Taxis
Regular taxis are probably the most snug and most secure technique of transport round Malindi. It’s simple to rent one out of your lodging facility or city middle. They usually have a “taxi” signal. It’s also possible to communicate along with your resort or resort and have them prepare a experience for you.
Issues To Do in Malindi: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on the most effective issues to do in Malindi:
Malindi is common for its seashores, vacation properties, and seaside villas. It has a wealthy tradition and historical past, influenced by Swahili folks, Italians, Portuguese, and Arab merchants.
The very best time to go to is throughout the dry season – June to October and December to February.
Sure. Malindi is value visiting for its gorgeous seashores, watersports, and historic websites. It gives a singular mix of journey, rest, and different experiences.
A really helpful keep in Malindi could be round 7 days – to interact in water actions, go to vacationer websites, and luxuriate in leisure time.
Malindi is taken into account protected for vacationers. Nonetheless, like elsewhere, staying alert and exercising warning is vital. See the newest journey advisories from UK and USA.
One of the common actions in Malindi is visiting vacationer sights just like the Malindi Museum. Different high issues embody snorkeling, scuba diving, and seaside strolling.
Golden Seaside (Buntwani) is the most effective seaside in Malindi. Others embody Silversands, Marine Park, and Mayungu.
Malindi is typically known as “Little Italy” due to the various Italian vacationers and residents. The recognition could be attributed to the city’s laid-back coastal way of life and seashores. It additionally dates again to the opening of the San Marco rocket launch pad by the Italian House Company within the Sixties.
Kiswahili is the first language spoken in Malindi. Nonetheless, English and Italian are additionally widespread.
In Closing
So, there you could have it. These are my favourite issues to do and locations to go to in Malindi. Hopefully, you’ll be able to see by now why I consider it to be some of the charming locations in Kenya – it’s overflowing with magnificence and vacationer sights.
There are numerous methods to whereas away your time there. So, whether or not you crave rest or journey, Malindi delivers an unparalleled expertise.
