Malindi Holidays, Tours & Safaris
Overview
Malindi: where Kenya's coast keeps its stories Long before the resorts arrived, Malindi was one of East Africa's great trading ports. Portuguese explorers landed here in the 1400s, Swahili merchants built coral-stone towns in the forest, and today the town wears every chapter of that history with ease. You'll find ancient ruins a short drive from the beach, wood-fired pizza and proper espresso beside the Indian Ocean, and fishermen still heading out at dawn in wooden boats. Beyond the town, the north coast opens up. Snorkel in protected marine parks, paddle through mangroves at sunset, watch turtles nest at Watamu, or go looking for rare birds in Arabuko Sokoke, one of the last great coastal forests in East Africa. Whether you want a slow beach escape, a deep-sea fishing trip or a base for adventures further up the coast, we'll shape it around you. Ready to see the north coast properly? Let's plan your trip.
Top Destinations
More than a beach. Malindi is a coastline of layers: history in the ground, life on the reef and wilderness right behind the sand. These are the experiences our guests remember most.
Things to Do
Gede Ruins Wander a lost Swahili town swallowed by forest, with coral-stone mosques, palace walls and baobab shade. Monkeys watch from the trees. It's quiet, atmospheric and a favourite with history lovers and photographers. Safari Blue at Mida Creek A full day on a traditional dhow: sailing through the creek, snorkelling, sandbank stops and a seafood feast prepared on the beach. Relaxed, social and one of the most-loved days on the coast. Kongo River Sunset Canoe Glide through mangroves as the light turns gold and the birdlife wakes up. A quiet three hours that feels a world away from the beachfront. Arabuko Sokoke Forest One of East Africa's largest remaining coastal forests, home to rare birds and the tiny golden-rumped elephant shrew. Guided walks reveal a side of the coast most people never see. Watamu Marine Park & Turtle Conservation Some of the clearest snorkelling on the Kenyan coast, plus a chance to visit local turtle rescue and conservation efforts. Easy to combine with a Malindi stay. Deep-Sea Fishing Head out beyond the reef for sailfish, marlin and tuna. Malindi has been a serious big-game fishing base for decades. Vasco da Gama Pillar & Old Town A short heritage walk taking in the coral pillar erected by the Portuguese in the late 1400s, the old town's alleys and the local market.
Free Ask Question?
When is the best time to visit Malindi?
The driest, sunniest months are December to March and July to October, with calmer seas and good conditions for snorkelling and fishing. The long rains fall around April and May, bringing lower prices and lush scenery. If crystal-clear water is your priority, ask us about pairing Malindi with Watamu.
How do I get to Malindi?
You can fly into Malindi Airport, or into Moi International Airport in Mombasa and continue by road. We arrange private transfers from Mombasa Airport to Malindi and Watamu hotels, currently $100 total for up to four people with luggage. (Confirm the price is current before publishing.)
What's included in your tours?
Each itinerary lists exactly what's covered, but most include a local guide, transport and entry or marine fees where applicable, plus meals as specified. Anything extra is flagged upfront, so there are no surprises.
Can I combine Malindi with a safari?
Yes, and it's an easy pairing. We run safaris to Tsavo East, Tsavo West, Amboseli and the Masai Mara, so you can add a few days of wildlife to your beach stay, and we handle the logistics between.
Is Malindi good for families and couples?
It suits both. Families enjoy the calm creek days, boat trips and easy sightseeing, and couples love the sunset canoe, the seafood and the quieter stretches of coast. We'll tailor the pace to your group.
Can you customise a trip or arrange a private tour?
That's what we do best. Tell us your dates, group and dream days, and we'll shape the itinerary around them.
