There’s two kinds of people on holiday, those who want to stay in the hotel, lounge by the pool, sipping on sangrias, and there are others who seek activity-filled days. Whichever category you fall into, Watamu is the destination that suits your desires. This coastal town in Kenya offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, ensuring that every traveler can find their slice of paradise.
Stay: Hemingways Watamu
So, if you’re the type who loves indulging in luxurious accommodations and leisurely days, then let me introduce you to a haven of tranquility. The Hemingways Residences, are a collection of luxurious apartments set within a new block designed to embody the essence of modern coastal living. Inspired by the turquoise sea and silver sand, each apartment features fully furnished and equipped state-of-the-art kitchen arena, comfortable lounge and dining area. Every room has been strategically designed, allowing you to wake up to the soothing sight of waves gently crashing against the shoreline.
Dine: Gede Pizzeria, Hemingways
While in Watamu, there is one experience that should not be missed: indulging in a mouthwatering pizza at the renowned Gede Pizzeria by Hemingways. Gede, a 12th Century Swahili village built from stone and coral, serves as the inspiration for the pizzeria’s design. Crafted with the same materials, Gede Pizzeria pays homage to the ancient ruins.
The pizza embodies everything a pizza should have: a thin crust that crackles with each bite, a size that satisfies even the heartiest of appetites, and the distinct flavors that emerge from being baked in an earthen oven.
Explore: Marafa Hell’s Kitchen
Just a short drive of 30 to 45 minutes from Hemingways, you’ll discover the natural wonder of Marafa Hells Kitchen. Locals here tell a fascinating myth: Legend has it that a wealthy and extravagant family residing in Marafa indulged in bathing with valuable cow milk. Incensed by their excessive behavior, the gods punished them by opening the ground beneath their home.
The result is a landscape of rugged terrain, eroded cliffs, and intricate patterns carved into the rock formations. Locally known as “Nyari,” meaning “The place broken by itself,” Marafa Hell’s Kitchen showcases the natural depression formed over thousands of years of harsh weather.
The true magic of this place reveals itself during sunset when the ribbed sandstone gullies come alive with vibrant hues, reflecting and mirroring the colors of the setting sun. Even though the temperatures can reach as high as 50 degrees Celsius, this masterpiece of nature is truly awe-inspiring and will leave an indelible memory of your visit.
Explore: Malindi Falconry Tour
For bird lovers, the Malindi Falconry Tour is a remarkable experience. Falconry is a private zoo that showcases an extensive collection of birds of prey and other fascinating animals. Under the guidance of experienced guides, you will have the opportunity to interact with majestic eagles, falcons, owls, goshawks, and colorful peckers, even having the chance to carry some of these birds on your gloved hand.
The site also features crocodiles, tortoises, monkeys, monitor lizards, and a snake enclosure with green mambas, pythons, and cobras.
Explore: Arabuko Forest
Stretching across 420 square kilometers, Arabuko Forest is the largest indigenous forest in East Africa. This remarkable forest is a haven for diverse flora and fauna, with sacred Mkone and Baobab trees, over 600 tree species, 270 bird species, the Big 5 snakes, and even the elusive Sokoke Scops Owl. If fortune smiles upon you, you may have the privilege of witnessing the majestic sight of elephants as they make their way to the watering hole.
Explore: The Mambrui Sand Dunes
A breathtaking natural wonder that should be on every traveler’s must-see list is the Mambrui Sand Dunes near Malindi. These 30-meter-high dunes, created by the accumulation of sand over ages, offer stunning views of the surroundings.
So, whether you’re sipping sangrias by the pool or exploring the captivating attractions, Watamu awaits with open arms, ready to create memories of a lifetime.
