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South Coast Kenya
Some areas of
interest while visiting Diani
 Besides
being a luxurious beach and crystal-clear warm water and only a
stones throw away from game parks like Shimba Hills National
Reserve, Diani and the entire south coast of Kenya offer a range of
activities, day-trips and excursions for visitors interested in the
environment of the coast, the unique species of trees, plants, birds
and mammals -- as well as the colourful history of the region.
SHIMBA HILLS NATIONAL RESERVE
This is a nature reserve which is about a 45 minute drive away from
Diani. A morning or evening drive around the park leaves the
visitors having appreciated the site of elephants at close range.
Other animals found here include buffaloes, giraffes, the rare sable
antelope and a variety of bird life.
While you are in Shimba Hills don't forget to stop in at the Shimba
Hills Forest Guides nature trail. You will be introduced to local
culture in a unique way. The entrance is by the elephant grid on the
Reserve side of Kwale town.
MWALUGANJE ELEPHANT SANCTUARY
Adjacent to the Shimba Hills Reserve, this is an elephant sanctuary
managed by the local community, NGOs and Kenya Wildlife Service with
the main purpose of trying to alleviate human wildlife conflict
(especially with elephants) and to promote conservation.
PARADISE LOST
This is a one day, out-of-the-bush tour. It involves a visit to a
local school, medicine man and a guided walk through the mangrove
system. One can also go on a snorkelling mission on or just have a
ride on a glass bottom boat.
SHIMONI & WASINI ISLAND
Shimoni is a small peninsula and is the headquarters of Kisite
National Marine park. Wasini is off the coast of the Shimoni
peninsula and is the perfect place to relax and experience a Swahili
culture away from your hotel. It is wooded and unspoilt. There are
no roads and virtually no cars. On a wander around the island one
comes across Muslim ruins, local women weaving mats, men preparing
for fishing by mending nets etc. Snorkeling and diving is done from
here to see a great variety of marine life. One can combine a visit
to the two islands.
KISITE MPUNGUTI MARINE RESERVE
This is offshore to the south of Wasini island. One can book through
the headquarters of Shimoni in order to get here. Both snorkeling
and diving can be done from this place. A variety of marine life is
seen from here.
DOLPHIN DHOW
A well run dhow trip specializing in snorkel dives at a coral garden
where the marine life is prolific. Here, there is a great
opportunity to spot dolphins.
KAYA KINONDO ECOTOURISM PROJECT
Managed by the local Digo community to protect the remaining patches
of forests, tours can be taken introducing guests to the cultural
traditions of this 'Kaya,' which is considered sacred by the
community and their elders.
OTHERS
A visit to Chale Islands
Gazi Bay Mangrove conservation
Sea Horse dhow trips
Diani Ukunda Falconry (Bird Sanctuary) |
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