For accommodation there is a well set-up coliving and a broad range of Airbnbs. It has over 80 restaurants of all cuisines, a good number of good coffee shops and two large supermarkets. Transport is easy with plentiful tuktuks, motorbike taxis and long-term rental scooters available.

It’s a brilliant kite spot six to seven months a year (Jan-Mar, Jun-Sept) with around ten kite schools, it also has all year round diving with three PADI dive schools and provides easy access for safaris and other adventures up and down the coast.

All our guides are updated with feedback from nomads and local operators so that we can give you real info about destinations, not just what ChatGPT can tell you [toc]

Snapshot: Diani at a Glance

Vibe, who it’s for, ideal stay length

If you like morning runs, beach walks, watersports and interacting with the local community in a safe beach community then Diani is a good fit.

Like most of Africa you are not going to find hundreds of nomads. However, you should be able to find some community. Whether through the coliving / coworking, weekly salsa / karaoke or just making friends with beach boys.

Safety

Diani & Galu are both safe places to walk around during the day on the beach and tourist town. The locals are generally friendly and speak a good level of English. In the evening we would recommend taking transport especially if you’re off the main road or walking alone.

Ukunda, which is situated behind Diani on the main road is also reasonably safe. We would generally reccommend getting a guide or going with at least two people if you’re planning on going to local markets.

Reports from solo female travellers is that other than slightly elevated attention on the beach from beach boys, offers of marriage are not uncommon albeit in jest, there have not been any incidents or issues reported to us in the last three years.

Typical monthly budget range

The main factor that will impact accommodation cost is air conditioning. As it’s humid and coastal you’ll probably want it. You’re looking at $600 to around $1,200 for a month in a well set-up Airbnb.

Meals out are as low as $3 in local restaurants and generally hover around $12 for a main course and a drink in more touristy spots.

Internet speeds, power reliability

The town has good 4G+ coverage everywhere except on the beach itself which is often just out of range due to the lower level.

Attitudes to nomads and tourists

Generally tourists are very welcomed on the coast including Diani. Locals are happy for tourists of all kinds and there’s no anti-tourism movement in Kenya. Police are generally friendly and do not harass tourists.

Where Is Diani & How It’s Laid Out

Diani is the name referring both to Diani beach as a general area but it is made up of two main beach areas and one town area.

• Ukunda – This is the local town area by the main road consisting of local markets;
• Diani Beach – The main established tourist area stretching from the Kongo river estuary down to around the Baobab hotel;
• Galu / Kinondo – This is the area south of the Baobab hotel and is generally slightly less developed but also a little more up and coming;
• Tiwi Beach (north side) – Much quieter and home to a few hotels, a dive centre and a popular tourist spot ‘African pool’;

When to Go

Diani is an all year round location. Restaurants, coffee shops and accommodation are generally open year round. Depending on whether you prefer the busy bustle of high-season or the calmness of the rest of the year.

• Peak season is December-January making up the Kenyan summer holidays and July-August are also quite busy with the western summer holidays.

• Rainy season – The only months that are really damp are April and May when it can rain quite a lot throughout a lot of the day. In November there is usually some rain but it’s more monsoon’ish with rain for a few hours in the morning.

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Work Setup

Internet & SIMs (mobile data, hotspots, Starlink options)

The best option in Kenya is Safaricom. Airtel is cheaper but their coverage is less good as are their speeds. With Safaricom for $24 you can get a 40GB data bundle that will give you 50-200mbps in most places.

You can get SIM cards as a tourist at official Safaricom shops only, there is one on the first floor at the Carrefour supermarket.

Power cuts & backups (what to expect)

Overall the power in Kenya is pretty stable however planned power cuts during the day and unexpected power cuts of up to two days do happen.

Despite the power cuts the internet infrastructure is all on redundant power set-ups. Cell towers and fibre optic infrastructure have solar panels, batteries and generators.

Most popular coworkings, cafes and hotels have generators. For the hotels there might be a small fee or minimum spend, not normally more than $15 a day.

Practically what this means is there’s always a coffee shop, restaurant, hotel or coworking with internet no matter what. If you have a phone and a good power bank you’ll be fine in most places.

Product recommendation: Anker 737 Power Bank, UGREEN Nexode Power Bank

Best Cafés & Coworking for Getting Stuff Done

• Skippers Coliving – They have an air-conditioned coworking which in low season has passes available for non-residents;
• Kokkos Coffee Shop – One of the more popular spots in town by Chandarana supermarket. They also have a sister branch at Diani Shopping Centre;
• Tightlines bar – Lovely quiet bar inside Safari Beach Hotel, great breeze and brilliant beach view from the 1st floor terrace;
• Pallet cafe (Galu) – A popular spot, they have a few desks inside, good food and they’re right on the beach;

Where to Stay (Nomad-Friendly)

There’s a wide range of options available on Airbnb. The main factor on the coast is really whether you want a/c or not. There’s a price jump there if you do and you’re usually looking at $600-$1,200 a month all in.

Local long-stay options are available locally and can offer great value but we would not reccommend handing money over until you have seen in-person and don’t expect to see deposits back at the end of a stay.

Coliving & longer stays

• Skippers Coliving – A coliving on airstrip road that has seven double en-suite air conditioned rooms, as well as an onsite gym and coworking (both with a/c), they also have a brilliant pizzeria House of Woodfired;
• Simba Appartments – A well run apartment complex with a nice pool. Each unit is privately owned and they can be normally found on Airbnb. Most have a/c and fibre internet;

Splurge / beach resorts

• Pinewood Hotel – Located in Galu they are a small and well run hotel. They run regular refreshes of the rooms and so everything is generally in good condition.

Costs & Money

Monthly cost of living (solo nomad)

ATMs, cards, and mPesa

There are several banks across the town area which accept most international credit cards. Most tourist restaurants will accept cards. All ATMs have security so there’s a very low chance of any issues at ATMs.

mPesa a local payment method which is ubiquitously accepted. It can be enabled on your Safaricom number. When you get a local SIM, just add 1,000 ksh to your mpesa number when you buy the SIM. Can be topped up via Wise, or via agents at the main supermarkets.

Getting There

Flying into Ukunda (Diani)

Diani has it’s own airstrip/airport. It has several flights a day from both airports in Nairobi. If you’re travelling same day from an international connection it’s easier to fly from JKIA with JamboJet.

If you’re staying a night or more in Nairobi go from Wilson airport via Safarilink, it’s a blast from the past and a really cool experience.

Note: Flights to Diani cannot be found on flight aggregators like Kayak or Google flights, you need to check the airline sites directly. Also the local airlines are pretty flexible on flight changes with usually only a small fee to pay.

Via Mombasa (airport + SGR train)

Mombasa has an international airport with flights arriving from Frankfurt via Condor as well as Addis via Ethiopian.

The airport and train station are more or less next to each other and both are ±1h20 via taxi to Diani which costs 4,000-6,000 ksh. You can use Uber or pre-book. If taking Uber do not be surprised if they request cash rather than using the Uber app.

There is a train that goes 2-3 times a day from Nairobi to Mombasa which is quite affordable $8-$30. You must have an mPesa account in order to book and also must arrive at least one hour before departure.

Road options from Nairobi/Mombasa

Do not travel by road from Nairobi.

The Nairobi to Mombasa highway has frequent accidents. Coach, minibus and other drivers regularly drive in a fashion that would make your mother close her eyes and scream.

While there are efforts to upgrade the highway to a four lane road with a central reservation it will take several years to complete the project.

Getting Around

Tuktuks, bodas, matatus

• Tuktuks – Ubiquitous around Diani they’re generally quite affordable but you should make yourself familiar with rates by talking to whoever you’re staying with, local barman/barmaid etc;
• Bodas – Motorbike taxis, super popular everywhere, no helmets, flipflops. Surprisingly few accidents. Always wear at least a pair of trainers in case it all goes wrong;
• Matatus – A national network of minibuses that are privately run. They go everywhere, they are unscheduled and run once they’re more or less full. They are not allowed to overload and there are lots of police checks to ensure this. Super cheap $1 from Diani to Mombasa. Keep valubles to a minimum.

Car/scooter hire

Scooters and small motorbikes can be hired for around $140-$200 a month. Depending on the rental shop little to no documentation may be required.

There are some police checks on main roads though they rarely pull over tourists wearing helmets.

Driving in Kenya would be similar to India in as much as large cars will regularly drive motorbikes, scooters cyclists and anything else on the road into the dirt.

If you’re familiar with that kind of driving style then you’ll be fine. If you’re not be very careful.

Eat & Drink

Local Swahili food to try

• Beef Pilau – Beef and rice dish, not spicy very popular and very common;
• Ugali – Staple food, available everywhere and very chepa;
• Chapati – A type of locally baked naan, super tasty;
• Mandazi – Baked good you will find at almost every street stall, try one you might like it;

Groceries, markets, and delivery

• Chandarana – Local supermarket chain with a large centrally located location. Well stocked, efficient check-outs and very friendly team;
• Carrefour – The French supermarket chain are in Kenya and have a reasonably large store in Diani including croissants, baguettes and a broad selection of european goods;

Restaurants

Most restaurants do not require booking in advance except Mid-December to Mid-January where booking at least a 2-5 days in advance is reccomended.

• Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant (International) – Great upmarket experience, booking required
• House of Woodfired (Pizza) – Neopolitan style pizzas in Kenya!
• The Anchor – Top notch international food with a Kenyan twist, booking required
• Asha Bistro (International) – Beach front restaurant, lots of seafood
• Colobus Shade (African) – Run by Colobus conservation it’s a great little spot to see primates
• Mwaepe Fishermen Beach Restaurant (African)
• Nomad Restaurant (International)
• Nokia Cafe (Kenyan) – Great local spot behind Full Moon Nightclub
• Salty Squid – Beach restaurant, good menu
• Sails Beach Bar and Restaurant (European)
• Sea Breeze at Galu Beach
• Shashin-Ka (Japanese) – Top notch suchi next to Chandarana
• William’s Grill Seafood Cafe (African)

Fitness & Wellness

Gyms & classes

• Bold Gym – Popular well set-up gym with plenty of equipment and classes;
• Rox Park Gym – Well set-up gym;
• Safari Beach Hotel – Good gym with daily / weekly passes available;

Yoga, massage, recovery

• Diani Yoga Barn – Yoga barn run regular classes in a nice spot;

Running & cycling notes

Morning is the best time to run, just at sunrise around 6am it’s quiet, cool and you’ll spot a good number of morning joggers.

If cycling be careful on the main road especially at peak times as drivers are generally not considerate to other road users. It’s advisable to ride on the second row roads as they are unpaved and less busy.

Beaches & Water Conditions

Best beach stretches for swimming/quiet/work breaks

You will never really be alone in Kenya. While the beaches are very quiet by modern standards it can be tricky to find beaches where you can read a book without being bothered.

There are two good spots though. The beach area south of Pallet Cafe is generally quiet and you’ll only see local fishermen or kids. The other quiet spot is Tiwi beach which is very quiet and you’ve got little chance of being bothered.

Reef, tides, and basics for first-timers

Diani has a natural reef around 1.5km-2km from the beach. This provides a really nice natural barrier from waves. In some sections there are a lot of urchins to be careful if walking around.

Water temperature is from 25C-29C.

Things To Do

Kitesurfing, diving/snorkelling, SUP

There are no fewer than ten kite schools in Diani and Galu with at least three that are IKO recognised. If you’re a complete beginner head to one of the IKO schools as they have excellent safety standards.

Especially as there are no safety boats in Diani.

If you’re a proficient rider (IKO K and higher) then the local schools often have older kit but cheaper rates.

OceanTribe, The Crab, and Scuba Duka are great places to book scuba diving lessons and offer all year round options and club options for regular divers.

Shimba Hills & Mwaluganje

There is a national park behind Diani. They have a broad selection of wildlife including the only Roosevelt’s sable antelope, elephants, giraffes, leopards, buffalo, and various primate species such as the Coastal Black and White Colobus Monkey.

Mwaluganje elephant reserve has been closed for a while but we’re hopeful it will re-open one day.

Wasini & Kisite Marine Park, Chale Island

There are two popular places to take boat trips the most popular being Wasini Island / Shimoni. Located about one hour south of Diani operators usually will pick up from your hotel and provide a full day of boat visiting, snorkling lunch and a tour of the historic slave caves. Coral Sprit is a very good option.

Chale island has a private hotel, for a fee you can get a lift to the hotel and spend a day on their very quiet beach and have a lovely lunch in the restaurant. Nice for a little treat.

Kongo Estuary

The Kongo Estuary is the final section of the Kongo River, where it meets the Indian Ocean. The lilac water has a calming effect. Canoe rides up the river are incredibly tranquil, where you can lay back and let your hand run against the flow.

The area is peaceful and has one of the oldest mosques on the coast. When you’re there, make sure you catch a few sunrises and sunsets spiritually uplifting start or end to your day.

Sunset dhow/creek trips

There are various local sailing boat (dhow) trips on the go organised usually ad-hoc on the beach. Make sure you’re clear on what you’re getting and negotiate hard

Nightlife & Community

Bars and nightlife

There is no shortage of bars or nightlife in Diani. Popular nightclubs include Full Moon and Manyatta. On the bars front there are too many to name.

Chill spot and Amigos are good locally run options for a sunset beer.

Nomad groups & how to plug in

Join the coliving at Skippers, a fitness class, a dive/kite school like H2O and you’ll make some friends quickly.

Safety & Etiquette

Beach hawkers & polite no’s

There are plenty of beach sellers. Mostly not to relentless. If you politely and firmly say no they will generally move on. The local for no thank you is ‘Ha-pa-na as-an-te’.

Dress norms, checkpoints, and common scams

Unlike a lot of the coast Diani is pretty easy going when it comes to dress. It’s tourist orientated and the Kenyans from Nairobi show no limits on the beachwear so you should be safe.

In restaurants generally it’s expected to wear at least a t-shirt and shorts.

Common scams are paying for trips and the seller disappearing. If you are going to buy from beach boys choose ones that are permanently located in front of beach hotels as they are less likely to disappear.

Health & Medical

Hospitals/clinics and pharmacies

• Diani Beach Hospital – A good well set-up local 24/7 hospital with a solid senior medical staff for emergencies, CT/MRI and dentist all-in-one, reasonably priced – Call: +254 700 999 999; +254 722 569 261; +254 735/7 223 223; +254 40 3300150/1;
• Aga Khan Mombasa – The nearest major top-level hospital is Aga Khan, you can get transfered their by helicopter assuming you have bought the relevant cover (±$20 a year);
• Axita Pharmacy – Located opposite Chandarana on the first floor above Diani Enterprises hardware store (near Kokkos). It is the place to go if you’re worried about anything. They will do malaria tests and provide solid advice without messing you around.

Note: It’s pretty common practice in Kenya for clinics to overcharge tourists (and locals) and get them to take unnecessary often quite expensive tests. Be aware of this and always ask for costs upfront. It will not be perceived as rude it’s fully normal to do.

Travel health basics

Malaria

Content below is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should always consult your doctor and or travel clinic.

Should I take malaria pills while I’m in Kenya? This is the question that comes up most often.

The answer is up to you. Malaria can be quite serious especially if you’re older or have medical conditions. You should always get advice from a medical professional.

If you’re in country for 2-3 months, popping pills every day might not be your idea of fun. If you’re only around for a week and don’t want any risk of ruining your $10,000 safari then it’s a no brainer.

It is usually not a big issue if caught early and treated. So unless you are in extremely remote villages with no access to medical care then your risk is probably quite low.

People also ask about mosquito nets. They won’t make a difference to you… You’re not going to catch malaria in bed you’ll catch it a bar or nightclub.

Get mosquito repellent there’s loads available in supermarkets and pharmacies.

Yellow Fever, Thyphoid etc.

Yellow fever is no longer mandatory to enter Kenya from the EU.

However, if you’re planning on travelling around Africa then get a Yellow Fever vaccination, they now last your lifetime and it’s required if you’re entering to/from a country where it has been present in the last ± 5-years.

Typhiod, Hep A, Polio, Tetanus, Measles

No mandatory but unless you’re not keen on vaccinations won’t hurt. Rabies is also a popular recommendation though we have not had any reports of rabid animals in Diani.

Entry & Stay Options

ETA/entry requirements overview

Visas are very simple. Apply online, you will need a confirmation for your first nights stay. Onward travel not usually needed for UK/EU/US/CA travellers.

When you arrive at customs tell them how long you’re staying e.g. 10 weeks and they will issue a 3-month tourist visa into your passport.

Extensions

Only the Kenyan single entry visa can be extended not the EAC or East African Visa. This is done online and is automatic to a total usually of five months. If you’re over that visa runs are possible and common.

Frequently Asked Questions about Diani

Is Diani safe?

Diani beach is generally safe. You have to be mindful of the beach boys and venturing alone to secluded areas at odd hours, just as you would anywhere else that isn’t your home.

How far is Diani from Mombasa?

It will take you an hour and a half from Mombasa to Diani by car.

Can you swim in Diani beach?

Yes, you can. The water is very shallow near the beach, but you can walk out a bit farther to find deeper waters. Farther out is also where the water is much cleaner and less sandy.

Is there Uber in Diani?

Yes, there is Uber in Diani. Other car-hailing apps like Bolt and Little are also available in Diani.

Of course, it helps that Kenya has the best 4G+ networks in East Africa. You’ll never struggle to stay connected no matter whether you’re in the middle of a city or in the bush on safari. 

But Kenya a few things about traveling here might surprise you – like the cost of living. 

So, in this quick guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about working remotely and traveling Kenya as a digital nomad.

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Quick Tips About Kenya

There is no Visa-On-Arrival in Kenya. You have to apply for a visa online in advance. Do so at least two weeks before your arrival date in case of delays.  

90-Days single visit tourist visa, is the type of visa most people use to visit Kenya. This can be extended a further 90 days if required at the immigration office in Nairobi or Mombasa.

Kenya is part of the East Africa Tourist Visa, a combined 90-day visa for Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. This is worth considering if you only plan to stay for a short time. Note this visa cannot be extended and you have to exit the East African Community area to renew it.

Kenya has over 40 National Parks (including marine parks). The Masai Mara is the most famous for hosting the Big 5 animals and the annual wildebeest migration which happens July-August.

Nairobi National Park is the only national park located within a city. You can visit it from Nairobi for a half-day.

Get a SIM card from Safaricom to use mPesa mobile money – a convenient payment technology/mobile wallet on your phone used by every business in Kenya.

Crime is only really an issue in Nairobi and Mombasa at night – especially Nairobi. Don’t walk alone, and use Uber whenever possible. The rest of the country is largely safe and you can walk around without any worries in most places with the exception of the areas approx 100-120km from the Somali border.

Kenya is huge, so if you’re traveling far, fly or use the train (where available). Driving up and down the Nairobi-Mombasa highway is particularly dangerous, long, and can be exhausting. Other routes are a little less intense.

Laptop-friendly cafes

Nairobi has thousands of laptop-friendly cafes, with plug sockets, comfortable chairs, and reliable internet. You can’t walk into a Java, Artcaffe, or CJ’s and miss seeing someone typing away on their laptops. 

On the coast, Diani, Mombasa, Nyali have plenty of places to work. Kilifi and Watamu very few. Lamu basically has none (another reason we love it!).

Top Things to Do in Kenya

Safaris and National Parks

You probably know this already, but Kenya’s National Parks spoil you for choice of safari adventures. A trip to the Kenyan countryside will leave you in awe, from the many big game animals to the beautiful sunsets.
For more, check out this guide to the Great Wildebeest Migration in Kenya.

Beach Getaways

Kenya’s long coastline is home to countless spectacular white sandy beaches, charming coastal towns, and relaxing islands. They offer stunning beauty, tranquility, a unique mix of cultures, and plenty of fast Wi-Fi.

Diani offers the best mix of beach life and real-world convenience, with kitesurfing, PADI dive schools and over 75 bars and restaurants even a few holiday town nightclubs. There’s a good number of cafes and beach front bars to work from as well.

Kilifi is a smaller, hipper, more creative, and stunningly beautiful beach town, popular with young Nairobians looking to let loose and party. 

Lamu is the absolute best place to switch off – mostly because the internet there sucks, and the slow island pace of life is spoiled every time you open your laptop!

Hiking

Mt. Kenya is the second-highest peak in Africa, offering breathtaking landscapes for experienced hikers. However, there are also plenty of smaller, more accessible mountains and hiking trails in many national parks. Ngong Hills and Karura Forest, can be accessed without leaving Nairobi. Further afield Mt Kenya, Taita Hills offer a good variety of terrains.

Cost of Travel in Kenya

Kenya is not a budget travel destination. But that doesn’t mean you need to spend a lot to enjoy it.

The biggest expenses for people visiting the country are usually safaris. Park access fees being the main driver of cost.

Fees do vary park to park and there are plenty of smaller, stunningly beautiful national parks dotted around the country, relax on the beach, and soak up the amazing atmosphere and hustle of this vibrant, exciting country.

Your other big expense will be accommodation. There are only a handful of backpacker hostels dotted throughout Kenya – and they’re mainly party hostels.

Cost of Living in Kenya

While GDP per capita in Kenya on average is low, tourist friendly accommodation tends to be expensive.

• It’s the city with which we have the most experience
• It’s the most expensive city to live in Kenya
• It’s the most popular place to live, outside of Diani or Kilifi 

Smaller towns will be cheaper. Coast is not much cheaper than Nairobi but depends where you go.

Living expenses in Kenya for an expat or digital nomad in Kenya can be compared to that of many European cities. The five main reasons for this are:

1. Overpriced rent for ‘expat’ apartments in nice neighborhoods.
2. Lack of good public transport means you’ll be taking lots of Ubers, Bolts, flights, and private car hires.
3. Many groceries are imported with high import duty taxes.
4. Entrance fees to national parks for non-citizens are very high ($30+ per person per day). So, if you plan on exploring Kenya on the weekends, it can get expensive. 
5. Nairobi doesn’t have much of a street food culture. Eating out usually means restaurants, averaging $8-15 per meal. On the coast and in smaller cities, it’s easier to find cheap, tasty local food. 

But don’t worry, Kenyans complain just as much about the cost of living in Nairobi – so you’re not alone.

Based on our experience, we suggest budgeting $2,000-2,500 per month to cover all your living, working, and travel expenses in Kenya. Although it is completely feasible to run at $1,000/month or less as long as you’re budgeting carefully.

This cost of living in Nairobi guide will help you budget and compare it to your usual expenses. TLDR: the table below is a quick summary.

Widespread and safe card acceptance, and Kenya’s MPESA mobile money means you’ll rarely need physical cash while in Kenya.

This makes using money while traveling in Kenya safer and more convenient than in most countries around the world. 

Lake Naivasha is vast and stunningly beautiful. Whether you’re spinning about on a boat tour or lounging on the lakeshore, there’s plenty of space for everyone to stretch out, relax, and take it all in. 

While the lake itself is worth a weekend trip, there’s also plenty to do in the surrounding hills and mountains. 

Use this guide to plan your Naivasha trip and decide if you want an active holiday or a relaxing getaway – or both!

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Things to Do in Naivasha

Naivasha has something for everyone. It’s the perfect weekend getaway away for families, couples, friends, and strung out Nairobians who need to escape the city before they lose their minds!

Boat Trip on the Lake

The most popular activity on Naivasha is taking a short boat trip around the lake. 

They usually last about an hour, and the ‘captain’ will happily answer questions about the various sites throughout the lake. You’ll also get pretty close to some hippos – which is nice. 

A boat trip should only cost around 20,000 KES for a small group, so you may need to haggle for the right price. 

It’s particularly lovely at sunrise and sunset.

Crescent Island

Crescent Island is a small sliver of privately owned land just off the main road that runs along the lake. 

It’s completely open, and you’re free to wander around with the zebras and giraffes that live here. 

Crescent Island is probably the closest you’ll get to the animals in the wild, and it’s a total trip when you notice there’s a giraffe just above your head.

Crater Lake

Compared to Naivasha, Crater Lake feels more like a pond. 

But if you enjoy some light trekking, circling around the lake is a leisurely way to spend 2 hours and take in the surrounding hills’ views. 

You’ll also probably be the only people here.

Unwind and Relax

Of course, if you just want to come to Naivasha and do nothing, that’s totally cool. 

Naivasha is perfect for just lounging on a chair, reading a book, playing cards, enjoying a meal, and letting the real world slip away for a couple of days. 

Even at its most crowded, you can definitely find a quiet corner of the lake to sit and chill.

Visiting Hell’s Gate From Naivasha

Hell’s Gate National Park is just a short drive south of Lake Naivasha. 

You can easily visit Hell’s Gate on its own as a day trip from Nairobi. However, instead of driving back to the city after a long day of hiking, wouldn’t you prefer to relax on the lake? 

Every campsite and resort in Naivasha organizes trips to Hell’s Gate for guests. If you have a car, you can also easily self-drive. 

Naivasha Campsites

Fisherman’s Camp

Fisherman’s is by far the most popular campsite in Naivasha. 

Right on the lakeshore, it’s a beautiful, expansive campsite with a few small bandas (Kenyan bungalows). Facilities are basic, with shared kitchens and bathrooms and a small restaurant bar. 

If you’re on a budget, this Fisherman’s is the best value stay in Naivasha.

A quick warning. Fisherman’s Camp is also a popular weekend party spot for young Nairobians. Both times I’ve stayed there, there have been issues with noise late into the morning. If you value a good night’s sleep, maybe don’t risk it.

Camp Carnelley’s

Just next door to Fisherman’s, Camp Carnelley’s may not be right on the lakeshore, but in every other area, it’s a significant upgrade.

You can choose between camping grounds and private bandas, but the highlight of Carnelley’s is its excellent restaurant – worth a visit even if you’re not staying here.

*Avoid* Crayfish

I’ve only been to Crayfish for lunch, but it was enough to know I’ll never stay here. 

The campsite’s TripAdvisor reviews back this up: trash everywhere, terrible food, filthy toilets, uncomfortable beds, the list goes on.

Oloiden Camp Site

Just southwest of Naivasha is Lake Oloiden. It’s much smaller than the main lake and much quieter as a result. But it’s just as beautiful.

Oloiden Camp Site is right on the water, with stunning views looking out over the lake. Facilities and prices are similar to Carnelley’s and Fisherman’s on the main lake.

Nice Airbnbs in Naivasha

If you feel like a more intimate self-catering stay in Naivasha, there are plenty of unique Airbnbs close to the lake. 

I stayed at Sanctuary Farms on a previous visit, and it was terrific. Right next to Crescent Island, the farm is full of roaming animals, has a small outdoor pool, and delightful little cottages dotted throughout the grounds.

You can also stop by Buffalo Mall in Naivasha Town to pick up any groceries for your stay. 

Getting to Naivasha

Driving

Naivasha is 93km north of Nairobi – a 2-3 hour drive depending on traffic out of the city. It’s a nice drive once you leave the city behind, and the Great Rift Valley opens up in front of you. 

Look out for some viewpoints along the way to stop and take in the view.

Taking a Matatu

You can take regular matatus directly from downtown Nairobi to Naivasha Town, leaving from 6 am until the evening. 

It takes about as long as driving, with few stops on the way. 

Once you arrive in Naivasha Town, if you’re staying on the lake, you’ll need to take another matatu or hire a taxi to get to your final destination.

SWVL App

SWVL is ‘re-inventing’ transport in Kenya with a novel idea: after downloading the app, you can pre-book a seat on regularly scheduled mini-buses, running on set timetables…. With fixed prices. 

The app primarily serves routes within Nairobi, but you can also book a seat to Naivasha. 

If you don’t have a car and you can’t handle crapped matatus, SVWL is the best option for a comfortable, hassle-free trip to Naivasha.

Naivasha Weather

Naivasha is named after the Maasai name for the lake, E na-iposha, which translates to ‘rough waters.’ It very much reflects conditions on the lake.

The weather here can change quickly, so pack for both rain and sun – because you never know when a quick storm might pass through. 

It also gets quite cold at night, so make sure you have something warm to wear in the evenings.

Flash flooding is also quite common during the region’s rainy months, usually running April-August. Keep an eye on local news and Facebook groups for updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Useful Information and Contacts

Naivasha postal code: 20117

Naivasha Hospitals and Medical Centres

• Naivasha County Referral Hospital: +254 770 735 546 
• Aga Khan Naivasha Medical Centre: +254502030443
• Karen Hospital Naivasha Branch: +254 724 412 107
• Bliss Naivasha Medical Centre: +254 780 100 036

Next Destinations

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Midway between the bustling tourist meccas of Malindi and Mombasa, Kilifi is a small seaside town, unspoiled by mass tourism. 

Pristine and uncrowded beaches, an eclectic food scene, and spectacular, dramatic scenery have made it a much-beloved destination for more “chilled out” travelers for years. 

Start your day with sunrise yoga on Bofa Beach. Spend your late afternoon sailing Kilifi Creek on a Swahili dhow, cold drink in hand, chasing the sunset. And finish up with some delicious seafood at one of Kilifi’s many excellent restaurants. 

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Things to Do in Kilifi

Most people come to Kilifi to unwind, relax and do not a lot. But once you’ve had enough lazy beach time, there’s plenty to keep you busy during the day and night. 

Sunset Dhow Trips

Dhows are traditional Swahili sailboats that once dominated trade and transport on Kenya’s coast. Busier beach towns like Diani and Malindi may have replaced dhows with loud jet skis and speed boats, but not Kilifi.

Renting a dhow is the most relaxing few hours you’ll spend in Kilifi, sailing through the creek as the sun sets in the distance and your troubles melt away. 

You can book a dhow trip directly by speaking to the captains sailing around the creek every day or through your accommodation. 

Watersports

Kilifi is becoming increasingly popular for various watersports on both the creek and the open ocean. You can try out kitesurfing, sailing, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and much more. 

Two locations in Kilifi are popular with kitesurfing enthusiasts. The water on Kilifi Creek is flat and works excellent for kitesurfers. However, the winds can be gusty, and you need to watch out for boats and canoes. Out on the ocean side, Salty’s Kitesurf Village has a launch site with wide open spaces on the beach, with shallow warm water and very little traffic. It’s perfect for Kitesurfers of all levels.

Kilifi has some of the best dive spots in Kenya, with two purposefully sunk shipwrecks that have created stunning artificial reefs. Expect to spot giant groupers, barracudas, and parrotfish. More advanced divers can explore the underwater caverns below Vuma Cliffs. Check out 

Vuma cliffs

30 minutes from Kilifi Town are the Vuma Cliffs, a beautiful area that feels like the edge of the world. The rumbling force of the Indian Ocean’s waves crashing into these craggy tall black coral cliffs raises sprays as high as 60 feet. You can take stunning photos here, meditate for hours on end, or even fish for yellowfin tuna off the cliffs.

Day Trip to Watamu

45 minutes’ drive north of Kilifi is Watamu, another delightful seaside town with a much different vibe to Kilifi. Watamu has plenty of great attractions and restaurants that are well worth the drive, like Gede Ruins (pictured). 

If you leave Kilifi in the early morning, book a boat trip on Watamu Marine Park for a chance to swim with the local dolphins.

The Crab Shack, a community project on Mida Creek just south of Watamu, is one of the most popular restaurants on Kenya’s coast, serving delicious, fresh seafood. The restaurant is built on stilts, accessed via a 100m boardwalk into the mangrove forest. The Crab Shack also provides canoe tours on the creek.

Deep-Sea Fishing

The Kilifi Boatyard (sometimes called the Yacht Club, depending on who you ask) is the launch site for some of the best big game fishing in Africa. If you’ve never hooked a marlin, you likely will in Kilifi.

Golf

Further up the road from Kilifi is Vipingo Ridge, a gated community with a par 72 18 hole golf course. Theirs is the only PGA rated golf course in Africa. I have it on good authority that they frown upon golf cart racing, so… don’t.

Kilifi Beaches

Kilifi is blessed with an abundance of stunning beaches, each one possessing a unique charm. Even better, the beaches in Kilifi have been spared the over-development that has transformed (ruined?) more popular destinations to the south. 

Bofa Beach

No matter how many times you make it to the shore in the morning, each sunrise on Bofa Beach will feel like your first. You could spend your entire day on Bofa Beach, from sun-up to sundown, and still never get enough of it. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more pristine and beautiful beach. 

The water is warm and calm and has become a favourite spot for kitesurfers from around the globe. Despite rivaling the more famous beaches in Africa and the world, Bofa Beach is rarely ever crowded. You can sit on Bofa Beach for close to an hour and not see another person.

Fumbini Beach

Fumbini Beach is nestled within Kilifi creek, offering total tranquility and stunning sunsets.

The water here is calm throughout the day and night, with just a gentle current you can barely feel.

Every night, particularly during the new moon, the water at Fumbini Beach is full of bioluminescent plankton. Swimming in the creek sets off a reaction in the plankton, causing it to glow brightly as you swim. It’s a truly magical experience and impossible to do justice with words.

Red House Beach

Red House beach is a tiny stretch of sand jutting out of the rocks, where Kilifi creek meets the Indian Ocean. It’s probably the least visited public beach in Kilifi and offers spectacular views of the sunrise – if you can get up that early!

The 8 Best Kilifi Restaurants (In no particular order)

• The Terrace – The Terrace plays excellent music, has a stunning view of the creek, and great food that’s ready in a few minutes. They occasionally screen movies by Kenyan filmmakers as well.
• Village Dishes – Village dishes is the most popular restaurant in Kilifi for Swahili food. A great place if you want to steep yourself in local flavours such as Biryani or Grilled Fish in Coconut Sauce.
• Salty’s – The Saltys menu changes depending on what’s available in their on-site garden and what the fishermen have caught that day, their fish tacos are divine.
• Distant Relatives – Distant Relatives is famous for their pizza night, burgers, and smoothie selection. Pizza night is a community affair so make sure you check it out when in town!
• Nautilus – one of Kenya’s most famous seafood restaurants, Nautilus is pricey but worth it. Try to get a seat right over the creek so you can watch the fish swim under you as you dine.
• Daisy’s – Daisy doubles up as a sports bar during football matches; they’re definitely where you want to go for grilled meat.
• Gitari’s – Gitaris serves purely vegan food, and you could spend as little as 50 ksh on a full meal here.
• Kilifi Members Club- Despite the fancy-sounding name, this isn’t a members-only club but another great place for beers and grilled meat.

Kilifi Hotels for Every Budget

Budget (Prices starting at USD 8)

Distant Relatives Ecolodge – also known as Kilifi Backpackers, DR is synonymous with backpacking and budget travel in Kenya. Something about the place draws good-natured, friendly people. You’ll find a diverse group of guests staying here throughout the year. 

But be warned: Distant Relatives is a popular party spot for locals and visiting Nairobians. They host weekly events that can keep going (loudly) until 6 am – so don’t expect to sleep on the weekends.

Tribe Bandas – If you want to steep yourself in local Giriama culture while you’re on holiday, Tribe Bandas is the perfect stay. 

They’re a family run backpackers that focus on creating intimate experiences for guests, with traditionally prepared meals, tours through the local village, music nights, and beach excursions. The whole place gives off great “barefoot travel” vibes and is perfect for experiential travelers on a budget.

Mid-Range (Prices starting at USD 35)

Saltys Kitesurf Village – Despite the name, Saltys is not just the only kitesurf centre in Kilifi. They’re also the only hotel with beach access within their price range. Saltys is relatively new to Kilifi but has quickly become one of the more popular places to stay. Their rooms are quirky (one has a bathtub that’s an indoor garden), and all rates include a complimentary breakfast.

Highend (Prices Starting at USD 140)

Silver Palm Resort  – Silver Palm is one of those places that’s so nice you aren’t 100% sure if you’ve paid enough for the room. I mean, their 2 room premiere suite has a private pool and dedicated butler. Walking into Silver Palm feels like you’ve snuck into an Emirati Sultan’s palace. 

If you can afford it, you definitely should stay there.

Living in Kilifi

Kilifi is the perfect place to live if you want to escape the humdrum of modern city life. Traffic is non-existent, the pace of life is best described as ‘sloooooow,’ and everything just feels a little breezier.

Even better, since Kilifi is a small town, the cost of living is relatively low compared to the rest of Kenya – especially Nairobi. You can get any groceries you need from Naivas Supermarket, the Express shop on Bofa road, and fresh organic fruit and veg from Oloitiptip market.

The weather in Kilifi is pleasant almost year-round (although it gets sweltering and humid from January to April). This makes it the perfect spot for active and outdoorsy people who like spending their time away from the house. 

And with two airports and the SGR train a short drive away, you’re never totally isolated. 

It’s no surprise increasing numbers of young people and families are relocating to Kilifi and neighbouring beach towns. 

Kilifi Houses to Rent

There are plenty of houses to rent in Kilifi, suitable for every budget. 

The average monthly rental price for a three-bedroom beachfront villa is around 130,000 Ksh ( approx. $1,250), but there are plenty of cheaper options. 

Kilifi Maghreb has furnished one-bedroom apartments starting at $250 per month that are perfect if you’re a remote worker or you’re planning a staycation. The apartments are surrounded by the forest, overlooking a gorgeous canopy, with a private pool, and Kilifi Creek only 5 minutes’ walk away. 

If you’d like more information about houses to rent, feel free to get in touch with Adam Kiboi via his email: adamkiboi@gmail.com

Getting to Kilifi

From Nairobi

You can fly to Kilifi from Nairobi by flying to either Mombasa or Malindi airports. Both are less than 90 minutes away, depending on traffic (the Malindi-Kilifi road is usually much less crowded).

Fly540 and Jambojet both fly to Mombasa and Malindi airports. From there, take a matatu or private taxi to Kilifi. 

Many bus companies run the 12-hour Nairobi-Kilifi route. Tickets range from USD 12 to USD 20 for larger seats that recline. The best bus companies are Simba Coach and Modern Coast. 

While cheap, these trips are frequently delayed and often dangerous due to the traffic and erratic drivers, especially at night. 

Finally, our favourite method of travel between Nairobi and the coast: the SGR train. You can take the Madaraka Express SGR as far as Mombasa, or take the Intercounty train and get off in Mariakani. 

Trains leave twice daily. Economy tickets cost 1500 Ksh, while First Class cost 3000 Ksh.

From Mombasa or Malindi

If your flight or train arrives in Mombasa or Malindi, or if you’re staying there, the best way to get to Kilifi is by taxi. Patrick from Wasili Cabs, a local version of Uber, charges USD 20 less than the airport taxis. You can book your ride with him on +254 703 568277.

Alternatively, you could take a matatu, which costs around 200 Ksh. There are stages in Malindi and Nyali (just north of Mombasa).

FAQ

Is Kilifi Kenya safe?

Kilifi is one of the safest towns in Kenya. There’s a community watch called Amini Kilifi and multiple security response vehicles all over town, all of whom are in direct contact with the Kenya Police Service.

What does Kilifi mean?

Some people believe Kilifi is named after Vuma Cliffs, while others think the town gets its name from “Mkilifi” the Swahili word for Neem trees.

How far is Kilifi from Nairobi

Kilifi is 522 km (or 324 miles) from Nairobi, and it takes an average of 8 hours to drive here.