Malindi

Malindi

North of Mombasa on the Kenyan coast, Malindi has a split personality. This popular beach town is part historic old town, part modern tourist hub. Thanks to its rich trading history, it is also a melting pot of cultures and cuisines.

Travelers, many from Europe, come here to sun on the white sands of Watamu Beach and dive the coral reefs of the Malindi and Watamu Marine National Parks. If you're looking for free things to do in Kenya, you can do worse than bask on a beautiful Malindi Beach.

You can also soak up a dose of Swahili history in the historic town, which dates from the 12th century. Here, you can visit the Jami Mosque; two pillar tombs from the 14th century; and the Church of St. Francis Xavier, one of East Africa's oldest churches.

On the promontory, the Vasco De Gama Cross is one of the oldest standing monuments in Africa.

Another popular tourist attraction is the Falconry of Kenya, a rehabilitation center for sick and injured birds.

Also worth visiting, about 30 kilometers northeast of Malindi is the Marafa Depression. Also called Hell's Kitchen or Nyari this set of sandstone gorges sculpted by the wind and rain is like a mini Grand Canyon.

Malindi is a town located in the coastal region of Kenya, about 120 kilometers northeast of Mombasa. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful white sandy beaches, coral reefs, and historic sites. Some of the main attractions in Malindi include:

1. Malindi Marine National Park - this park is home to a variety of marine life such as dolphins, turtles, and fish, and it's an excellent place for snorkeling and diving.

2. Watamu Beach - a beautiful stretch of white sand and turquoise water that's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

3. Gede Ruins - the ruins of an ancient Swahili town that dates back to the 12th century. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the most significant historical sites in Kenya.

4. Vasco da Gama Pillar - a pillar erected by Vasco da Gama in 1498 during his expedition to India.

5. Falconry of Kenya - a bird sanctuary that offers visitors the opportunity to see birds of prey up close and watch them in action.

The best time to visit Malindi is between December and March, which is the dry season. During this time, the weather is sunny and warm, and the ocean is calm and clear, making it perfect for water sports and other outdoor activities.