Ukunda Tourism (2024) - Kenya > Top Places, Travel Guide

Ukunda Travel Packages

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14 Days / 13 Nights

Kenya's 14-Day Wildlife & Coastal Safari Package

Nairobi (1N) → Lake Nakuru(1N) → Lake Naivasha (1N) → Masai Mara (2N) → Amboseli (2N) → Tsavo West (1N) → Tsavo East (1N) → Shimba Hills (2N) → Diani Beach (2N)

$ 4,413

1% off

$4,331/person

6 Days / 5 Nights

Ukunda Beach Vacation Package - 5 Nights 6 Days

Ukunda (5N)

$ 1,513

6% off

$1,418/person

4 Days / 3 Nights

Diani – Wasini Island Tour Package – 3 Nights 4...

Mombasa (0N) → Diani Beach (3N) → Wasini Island (0N) → Mombasa (0N)

$ 725

11% off

$643/person

6 Days / 5 Nights

6-Day Masai Mara & Diani Beach - Luxury Flying ...

Nairobi (0N) → Masai Mara (2N) → Ukunda (0N) → Diani Beach (3N)

$ 2,659

2% off

$2,598/person

8 Days / 7 Nights

8-Day Kenya Wildlife Safari and Beach Getaway

Nairobi (0N) → Amboseli (2N) → Tsavo West (1N) → Tsavo East (1N) → Diani Beach (3N)

$ 2,171

3% off

$2,101/person

View All Packages For Ukunda

"Gateway to Diani Beach"

Ukunda Tourism

Located along the Indian Ocean, Ukunda is a vibrant town in the southern part of Mombasa, Kenya. With its golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and breathtaking sunsets, Ukunda serves as the gateway to the stunning Diani Beach, one of the country's most popular coastal destinations known for its pristine shores and vibrant marine life. Situated approximately 30 kilometers south of Mombasa, Ukunda is easily accessible by road and air, thanks to the nearby Ukunda Airstrip.

Spread across approximately 100 square kilometres, the town also boasts an array of luxurious resorts, hotels, and restaurants that cater to the needs of every traveller. Visitors can engage in a variety of water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kite surfing, and deep-sea fishing. The vibrant marine life, including colorful coral reefs and diverse fish species, makes it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts.

Beyond the beach, Ukunda offers several attractions that showcase the region's rich cultural heritage and natural wonders. The Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides insight into the traditions of the indigenous Mijikenda community and offers serene nature walks. Additionally, the Shimba Hills National Reserve, located a short drive from Ukunda, boasts lush rainforests, scenic waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and the rare sable antelope.

Ukunda's local markets and dining options also add to its charm, offering visitors a taste of authentic Kenyan cuisine and culture. Fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional Swahili dishes are among the culinary delights available. Situated in Kwale County, Ukunda offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure.

1. Diani Beach

Diani Beach in Ukunda is a stunning coastal destination known for its pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. Spanning 25 kilometres, it has consistently been voted Africa's top beach destinatio (Read More)n since 2015. Visitors can expect a paradise-like setting, ideal for relaxation, sunbathing, and water sports like snorkelling and diving. The best time to go is during the dry season from December to March when the weather is sunny and the sea is calm.

Colobus Conservation in Ukunda is dedicated to preserving colobus monkeys and their habitat. Known for its conservation efforts, visitors can expect to learn about these unique primates and their role (Read More) in the ecosystem. The best time to visit is in the morning when the monkeys are most active.

3. Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest

Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest is a protected forest with cultural and spiritual significance. Visitors can experience the tranquil beauty of the forest, learn about traditional beliefs, and explore its b (Read More)iodiversity. The best time to visit is during the dry season for easier access.

4. Tiwi Beach

Located just a few kilometres south of Diani Beach, Tiwi Beach offers a serene and uncrowded atmosphere, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like snorkelling, kayaking, and paddleboardi (Read More)ng.

5. Galu Kinondu

Galu Kinondo is a sought-after destination for kite surfing enthusiasts in Ukunda, known for its excellent wind conditions and expansive beachfront. Beyond kite surfing, Galu Kinondo offers opportunit (Read More)ies for swimming, sunbathing, and leisurely walks along the picturesque shore.

6. Bora Bora Wildlife Park

Bora Bora Wildlife Park offers an opportunity to interact with various animals, including reptiles and birds. Visitors can expect educational experiences and close encounters with wildlife. The park i (Read More)s open year-round, and the best time to visit is during the morning hours when animals are most active.

Must Know Before You Travel to Ukunda

Weather Conditions: Ukunda is best visited during the dry seasons (December-February, June-September). Heavy rains from March to May can disrupt travel plans.
Cash and ATMs: ATMs are available but may be limited. Carry sufficient cash in Kenyan Shillings, especially when traveling to remote areas.
Accommodation: Stay in Diani Beach for easy access to the beach, restaurants, and activities.
Pre-Booking: Pre-book activities like water sports, safaris, and excursions to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.
Transport Options: Ukunda has limited public transport. Taxis and tuk-tuks are commonly used for local travel. Car rentals are available for longer distances.

Top Hotels In Ukunda

More on Ukunda Travel

Shopping in Ukunda

In Ukunda, visitors can enjoy shopping at various places, including Diani Beach Shopping Centre. This popular destination offers a wide selection of shops selling crafts, clothing, and fresh produce. Baharina Plaza is known for its unique selection of shops, while Benson Gitari Art and Almasi Art Agency showcase local artwork. Exploring local markets is also recommended for unique souvenirs and handmade items. Bargaining is common in Ukunda, so be prepared to negotiate for a great shopping experience.

Nightlife in Ukunda

Ukunda boasts a lively nightlife scene with popular spots like Shakatak Disco, Tandoori Bar, Dosi Dosi Lounge, Johray’s Discotheque, Forty Thieves Beach Bar, and Tiki Bar at Diani Beach. These vibrant venues offer a range of entertainment, including live music, DJ performances, and beach parties.

History of Ukunda

Ukunda has a history spanning several centuries. It was inhabited by the Digo people, and later became a prominent trading center for the Swahili culture. Throughout the years, Ukunda saw the influences of Arab traders, Portuguese explorers, and British colonial rule. The rich history of Ukunda, shaped over the years, showcases its cultural significance and its role as a key economic hub in the coastal region of Kenya.

Travel Tips for Ukunda

Dressing: When in Ukunda, remember to dress modestly.
Greeting: It is customary to greet people with a handshake and a polite "Jambo" (hello) or "Habari" (how are you).
Tipping: It is customary to leave a small tip, usually around 10% of the bill, for good service in restaurants and services rendered by guides or drivers.
Responsible Tourism: Be mindful of the environment. Avoid littering and follow responsible tourism practices to help preserve the local ecosystems.

Best Time to Visit Ukunda

How to Reach Ukunda

How to Reach Overview

To reach the park, travellers can fly to Moi International Airport in Mombasa or Ukunda Airstrip near Diani Beach. Flights from Nairobi are available, with a travel time of approximately one hour. From Mombasa or Ukunda, the park is easily accessible by road via well-maintained highways, with a travel time of about one hour. Trains from Nairobi and Mombasa is another great option to reach Ukunda as it takes around 5 hours. Public transportation options such as buses, minibuses (matatus), and taxis are available too.

How to reach Ukunda by flight

To reach the park, travellers have the option of arriving at Moi International Airport in Mombasa, which is approximately 35 kilometres away. Daily flights are available from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Nairobi Wilson Airport to Mombasa, with an approximate one-hour journey and a round-trip cost of around $120. From the airport, it takes about 45 minutes to reach the park by taxi or pre-arranged transfer.

Alternatively, Ukunda has its own airstrip located near Diani Beach. The Ukunda Airstrip offers flights between Nairobi and Ukunda, with a travel time of around 1 to 1.5 hours. The round-trip cost per person ranges between $100 to $140. JamboJet is one of the airlines operating between Nairobi and Ukunda.

You can also book flights through platforms like Skyscanner and SafariLink for convenience.

How to reach Ukunda by road

For those preferring road travel, a network of well-maintained highways connects the park to major cities like Mombasa and Nairobi. The distance between Mombasa and the park is approximately 31 kilometres, with a travel time of around 1 hour along the A14 highway.

How to reach Ukunda by train

The closest railway station to Ukunda is in Mombasa. The Madaraka Express takes approximately 5 hours to reach Mombasa from Nairobi SGR. You can book through the Kenya Railways Corporation. A one-way ticket would cost anywhere between $10 to $30.

You can expect to see the famous red elephants along with other wildlife as the train travels via Tsavo East National Park.

How to reach Ukunda by bus

You can also opt for public transport like a bus or minibus (matatus) from Mombasa to Ukunda. They take around 1-2 hours to reach and the cost can range from 100 to 300 Kenyan Shillings (KES).

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