Free tourist information
Everything we'd tell a friend coming to Watamu.
Honest, local, free. These guides are the answers we give most often at the office on Blue Bay Road. If your question isn't here, call or WhatsApp at any hour and we'll help, whether or not you ever book with us.
Best time to visit Watamu
Watamu is warm all year, but the sea, the winds and the wildlife each have their season. Here is how to pick your dates.
TransportGetting to Watamu
By air to Malindi, by train and road via Mombasa, or by road from Nairobi. Honest advice on each route and what it really costs in time.
TransportGetting around Watamu
Tuk-tuks, boda bodas, bicycles and taxis. What to use, what to pay and how to stay safe.
PracticalMoney, M-Pesa and tipping
Kenyan shillings, cards, ATMs and the mobile money system that runs the country. Plus a sensible guide to tipping.
NatureSnorkelling and reef etiquette
A few simple habits keep Watamu's reef healthy for the next visitor and make your snorkelling better too.
PracticalWhat to pack for Watamu
Light clothes, strong sun protection, and a few items people wish they had brought.
PracticalStaying safe and healthy
Watamu is a relaxed, friendly place. A little common sense keeps it that way for you.
Local lifeEating and drinking in Watamu
Swahili coastal cooking is one of the joys of the trip. Here is what to try and where to look.
Quick answers
Frequently asked questions
How do I book a tour?
Send us a message on WhatsApp, call, or use the Plan My Trip form. We confirm availability, tide times and price, and you pay a deposit by M-Pesa, bank transfer or card. The balance is settled on the day.
Are your prices fixed?
Every trip is designed around your group size, dates and budget, so we quote individually rather than publishing one price for everyone. Our quotes always include park fees, guides and transfers so there are no surprises on the day.
Do you pick up from hotels?
Yes. All day trips and safaris include pick-up and drop-off at hotels, guesthouses and villas in Watamu. Pick-ups from Malindi, Kilifi and Malindi Airport can be arranged.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Boat trips depend on the sea, and safety comes first. If the captain calls a trip off we move it to another day or refund your deposit in full. Safaris and inland trips run in light rain.
Are your trips suitable for children?
Very much so. Glass-bottom boats, the turtle centre, Mida Creek and Tsavo are all family favourites. Life jackets come in children's sizes and we adapt the pace to the youngest traveller.
Are you really open 24 hours?
Yes. Flights land late, plans change and questions come up at odd hours. Our phone and WhatsApp line is answered around the clock.
Prefer to ask a person?
Walk into our office on Blue Bay Road, or message us. Tide tables, tuk-tuk fares, the nearest pharmacy, a good place for dinner: all free.