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

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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

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"A Place of Marine Adventures & Cultural Experiences"

Wasini Island Tourism

Wasini Island is a captivating island located on the southern coast of Kenya near the border with Tanzania. One of the 3 islands of Kwale County, Wasini Island is most popular for its crystal-clear waters teemed with stunning coral reefs and abundant marine life, making it a haven for snorkelling and scuba diving enthusiasts. Situated about 75 kilometers south of Mombasa, this small island is a popular day trip offering a rich blend of marine biodiversity, cultural heritage, and natural beauty.

One of the primary attractions of Wasini Island is its proximity to the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park, one of the most biologically diverse marine parks in Kenya. This park is a haven for snorkelers and divers, boasting vibrant coral gardens, an array of colorful fish, and regular sightings of dolphins, sea turtles, and occasionally humpback whales. The clear, warm waters provide excellent visibility, making it a perfect spot for underwater photography and marine exploration. Guided boat tours from Wasini Island offer visitors the chance to snorkel, dive, and even swim with dolphins, providing an unforgettable marine adventure.

A must-visit attraction on Wasini Island is the remarkable Wasini Island Marine National Park, which protects the rich marine biodiversity and offers opportunities for snorkelling, boat tours, and experiencing the island's natural treasures firsthand. Visitors look forward to sight dolphins, green sea turtles, and humpback whales during their trip. The island is also renowned for its vibrant cultural heritage, with a predominantly Wavumba population that offers visitors a glimpse into their traditional lifestyle.

Wasini Island is also home to the famous Wasini Coral Gardens and the Shimoni Caves. The coral gardens, accessible by foot during low tide, showcase a variety of coral species and marine life. The Shimoni Caves, located on the mainland near the island, have historical significance as they were used as holding pens for slaves before they were shipped to Arabia. A guided tour of these caves offers a sobering reminder of the region’s history and its role in the slave trade.

For those interested in bird watching, the island and its surrounding mangroves are home to a variety of bird species. The mangrove forests provide a crucial habitat for many coastal and migratory birds, making it an excellent spot for ornithologists and nature lovers. Kayaking through the mangroves is another popular activity, offering a peaceful way to explore the unique ecosystem and observe the wildlife.

The island itself is a serene and picturesque retreat. It is relatively small, with no cars, giving it a peaceful and untouched ambiance. Visitors can explore the charming Swahili villages, where traditional thatched-roof houses and narrow winding paths reflect the island’s rich cultural heritage. The local Swahili community is known for their warm hospitality, and visitors often have the opportunity to experience traditional music, dance, and cuisine.

Entrance Fees to Wasini Island:

While there is no admission fee to enter Wasini Island, please note that certain activities on the island may have associated fees.

Kisite Mpunguti Marine National Park & Reserve
Citizen: Adult – KSH 215, Child – KSH 125
Residents: Adult – KSH 215, Child – KSH 125
Non-Resident: Adult – USD 17, Child – USD 13

Snorkelling & Scuba Diving – Ranges from USD 320 to USD 350
Dhow Cruise – USD 20
Dolphin tours – USD 90

1. Snorkelling and Scuba Diving

Wasini Island is renowned for its thrilling water activities, with snorkelling and scuba diving being the most popular among visitors. The top spot for snorkelling is the Kisite Marine National Park, (Read More)where you can explore the vibrant underwater world for 2-3 hours. For diving enthusiasts, the Kisite Archipelago, Shimoni Caves, and The Pinnacle are the best diving sites to discover the wonders beneath the surface.

2. Kisite Mpunguti Marine National Park & Reserve

This protected marine park boasts about 250 recorded fish species, 70 resident dolphins and over 140 catalogued individuals, sea turtles, whales, 56 genera of corals, seagrass and gastropods. It offer (Read More)s incredible Snorkeling and Scuba Diving opportunities to explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. The best time to visit is during the morning or early afternoon when the waters are calm and visibility is good.

3. Wasini Village

Wasini Island is a charming village where visitors can interact with the friendly locals, and get a glimpse of the traditional Swahili culture. Any time of the day is suitable for exploring the villag (Read More)e and experiencing the local way of life.

4. Dolphin Excursions

The dolphin tours usually start early morning and last for two hours. You can board a traditional dhow boat to spot dolphins swimming in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island.

5. Shimoni Caves

You can explore the historical Shimoni Caves, which served as a hideout for slaves during the slave trade era. Guided tours are available, and the caves can be visited throughout the day.

6. Sunset Dhow Cruise

You can end your day with a serene dhow boat cruise along the coastline, witnessing the breathtaking sunset. These cruises provide a relaxing and romantic experience, best enjoyed in the late afternoo (Read More)n or early evening. Consider booking a tour in advance to secure your spot and savour the picturesque sunset scenery.

Must Know Before You Travel to Wasini Island

Going Around: The main mode of transport in Wasini Island is by foot as there are no cars, roads, carts, or bicycles. Instead, the island is traversed by footpaths made of sharp old coral or sand. Additionally, you can arrange for local boat transfers to nearby attractions such as the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park for snorkelling or dolphin-watching excursions.
Parking: If you're travelling by private vehicle, you can find secured paid parking facilities in Shimoni, as vehicles are not allowed on Wasini Island itself.
Ferry Point: The ferry point on Wasini Island is located in the village of Shimoni called Shimoni Jetty.
Snorkelling Gear: You can easily rent snorkelling gear on the island or coordinate with tour operators to arrange for its rental.
Mode of Payment: Cash is widely accepted on Wasini Island, and it is advisable to carry sufficient cash as credit cards or electronic payment methods may have limited acceptance. It is recommended to withdraw or exchange currency beforehand, as access to ATMs or banking facilities may be limited.
Vaccinations: It is important to receive mandatory vaccinations and consult with your doctor at least 6-8 months in advance regarding diseases such as Malaria, Dengue, and Cholera. Additionally, review your travel insurance plans to ensure adequate coverage while abroad.
Must-Try: At Charlie's Claw Restaurant, you can savour great seafood and Swahili cuisine, relax under palm trees, and enjoy the Lazy Lagoon Pool, as well as experience a memorable sunset cruise.

(Read More)

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History of Wasini Island

Wasini Island holds a fascinating history as a bustling trading post along the East African coast, connecting the Swahili people with merchants from Arabia and India. Arab traders arrived in the area during the first century AD, leading to the emergence of Arab settlements and the fusion of Arab and Bantu cultures, giving birth to the Swahili culture seen today. Portuguese dominance came to an end in 1698 when the Omani Arabs defeated them and took control of the coast, including Wasini Island. The Omani Arab influence in East Africa can still be seen today, as many inhabitants of the island have direct Omani ancestry and preserve their Arab traditions. Despite external influences on the mainland, the people of Wasini Island have managed to retain their distinct heritage through intermarriage within Omani clans, resulting in Arab traits and fair skin being prominent among the island's population.

Nightlife in Wasini Island

Wasini Island is known for its natural beauty and rich cultural experiences rather than its vibrant club scene. While there may not be specific clubs or nightlife hotspots on the island, visitors can enjoy the evening by savouring delicious Swahili cuisine at local restaurants or participating in cultural performances and traditional music events.

Shopping in Wasini Island

Wasini Island offers limited shopping options, but visitors can explore local shops and markets for souvenirs, handicrafts, and locally made products. The popular Wasini Island Craft Centre is a great place to find unique handmade crafts like wood carvings, jewellery, and woven items. The local village also has small shops with essentials and local products. While shopping isn't the main focus on the island, it's a chance to support local artisans and take home a meaningful memento of your visit.

Best Time to Visit Wasini Island

How to Reach Wasini Island

How to Reach Overview

Wasini Island is accessible via a ferry ride from Shimoni, which is approximately 15 kilometres (9 miles) away. To reach Shimoni, there are different transportation options depending on your starting point.

If you're travelling from Nairobi, you can fly to Ukunda International Airport or Moi International Airport, which takes around 1 hour, or take a train to Mombasa, which is approximately a 6-hour journey. From there, you can continue by road to Shimoni, which takes about 2-3 hours. The distance between Nairobi and Shimoni is approximately 500 kilometres (310 miles).

If you're coming from Mombasa, you can reach Shimoni by car or bus, which takes around 2 hours. The distance between Mombasa and Shimoni is approximately 80 kilometres (50 miles).

How to reach Wasini Island by flight

The nearest major airport is Ukunda International Airport, which receives domestic and international flights. From there, you can take a taxi or a pre-arranged transfer to Shimoni, a coastal town near Wasini Island. The journey by road from the airport to Shimoni takes approximately an hour. Alternatively, you can also fly to Moi International Airport from Nairobi. This journey also takes an hour to reach. Both routes cost around $150 for a round-trip.

You can book your flights through SafariLink, Kenya Airways, and Jambojet.

How to reach Wasini Island by road

Wasini Island is approximately 85 kilometres away from Mombasa and takes around 2 and a half hours to reach. You can reach Shimoni in 2 hours and head to the Shimoni jetty, where boats depart for Wasini Island. The road distance between Shimoni and the jetty is approximately 5 kilometres, which can be covered in about 15-20 minutes. If travelling by private vehicle, you can get a guarded parking space for your vehicle in Shimoni as there are no vehicles allowed in Wasini Island.

How to reach Wasini Island by train

There are daily trains scheduled between Nairobi and Mombasa. You can opt to hire a taxi or take a bus from Mombasa to Wasini Island. The train journey takes around 6 hours and can cost approximately $25 for a one-way trip. You can check the schedule and book tickets at Kenya Railways Corporation.

How to reach Wasini Island by bus

To reach Wasini Island from Mombasa, you can start by crossing the Likoni Ferry on foot and making your way to the Likoni Matatu station. From there, simply inquire about the minibus heading to Shimoni. The fare for the minibus is approximately KSH 350, and the travel time is around 3 hours.

From Diani Beach or Ukunda, you can easily catch a direct minibus or bus to Shimoni. Head to the Ukunda matatu stops near the post office, commonly known as 'Posta.' Look for the Shimoni minibus/bus, which will cost around KSH 300 and take approximately 2 hours to reach.

How to reach Wasini Island by waterways

Regular boat services operate from the Shimoni jetty to Wasini Island. The boat ride typically takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on sea conditions and the type of boat. Costs for boat transfers can vary but typically costs around 350 KSH. It is advised to be booked in advance.

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

"A Place of Marine Adventures & Cultural Experiences"