Starting from

$250PP

Overview

Watamu is a small town on Kenya's Indian Ocean coast, about 105 kilometres north of Mombasa and 15 kilometres south of Malindi. It is located on a small bluff between the Blue Lagoon and Watamu Bay. Tourism and fishing are its main economic activities. 
The area's shoreline includes white sand beaches and offshore coral formations arranged in various bays and beaches, including Garoda Beach, Turtle Bay, Blue Lagoon Bay, Watamu Bay, Ocean breeze, Kanani reef, and Jacaranda beach. They are part of the Watamu Marine National Park, which protects them. The Marine Park is regarded as one of the best snorkelling and diving spots on the East African coast. It is also ranked as Africa's third-best beach due to its crystal clear water and silver sand beaches.

High Season
June to September and January to February
Best Time to Go
Year-round destination with seasonal variations

Pros & Cons

  • Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities
  • Beautiful and diverse scenery
  • Professional guided safaris
  • Unique ecosystem and biodiversity
  • Can be crowded during peak season
  • Weather dependent activities

Map in Kenya

Watamu map

Wildlife & Animals

Wildlife Highlights

Best Time for Wildlife Viewing

Birds

Best Time for Birding

Birding is usually best during the Wet season when migratory species are present.

Best Time to Visit – Watamu

High Season
Varies by park and activity
Low Season
Seasonal rains can affect access in some areas
Best Weather
Typically during dry months; check local patterns
Worst Weather
Peak of Wet season; very hot months vary by region

May to October (Dry Season)

  • Less vegetation and animals concentrate around water, making them easier to spot
  • The skies are clear, rain is rare, and there are fewer mosquitoes
  • Even though most tourists visit during the Dry season, the parks still feel uncrowded, except for the bustling Chobe riverfront area
  • Early morning and evening drives are cold in June, July and August

November to April (Wet Season)

  • The scenery is greener, and there are lower rates during this season
  • Although wildlife is easier to spot in the Dry season, you'll still see plenty
  • There are many newborn animals and migratory birds
  • Except for January and February, rains seldom interfere with your trip
  • During January and February, the rains can be continuous for days
  • It gets very hot in October and November
  • Some lodges and camps close down during part of the Wet season

No FAQs available for this park yet.

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