Malindi, Kenya

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Malindi, an Italian tourist enclave, is ideal for families in search of a beach vacation destination with atmosphere. From bustling local markets hawking funky curios to high-end galleries and boutiques selling African arts and crafts, the shopping in Malindi is hard to beat. Restaurants, both Swahili and Italian, serve everything from samosas and curries to pizza and pasta. Yet the real draw at this once important trade center a 2-hour drive north of Mombasa is the beach. Here, the extensive white sand beaches give way to turquoise waters and miles and miles of marine park. While the quality of the reef may not compare to other Indian Ocean destinations, shallow waters and proximity to shore make the Malindi Marine National Park an ideal place to snorkel and scuba dive with kids.

Malindi Photo Gallery
Malindi Photo Gallery
Malindi Photo Gallery
Malindi Photo Gallery
 
Getting there
 
International and intercontinental flights including regularly scheduled and charter airlines arrive/depart the airport in Mombasa, the main gateway for travelers to the coast. Domestic flights connect Mombasa with Nairobi and Malindi as well as Malindi to Nairobi and Lamu. Mombasa Air Safari flies up and down the coast and makes it possible to travel between the beach resorts and games reserves without connecting through Nairobi. Malindi is also accessible from the coast road, which runs north from Mombasa. Road transfers from Mombasa, 125 km (80 miles) south, can be arranged through area hotels.
Getting around
 
Driving in Kenya is a hair-raising experience and the hazards go beyond potholes. If you decide to rent a car make sure it is a 4-wheel drive, keep in mind that driving is on the left, and do not drive at night. Aside from the safety issues, hiring a car with a driver can cost significantly less. Check out the condition of the vehicle and negotiate the rate before you head out on a day trip. Buses and matatus (minibus) are valid alternatives. Taxis and the three-wheeled tuk-tuks are readily available at major hotels as well as the shopping arcades on Lamu Road.
Rental Cars
Carrentals.co.uk
Chauffeur Services
Juma Wilson's Transport Services
When to travel
 
The peak season for travel to Malindi is in August and from December through February. In contrast to Lamu and the beaches south of Mombasa, snorkeling is ideal from August to November when the Kusi or cool southern trade winds blow. The Kaskazi or hot northeastern winds, which blow from December though April, carry silt from the rivers to the north turning the turquoise water brown. Families traveling at this time of year should head north to Che Shale, just beyond Mambrui, or south to Watamu. Both are easy day trips.
Weather Forecast & Climate History
Weather Underground
Travel health & child safety
 
Malaria is a risk in all areas along Kenya's coast and travelers' diarrhea is a common ailment affecting tourists in Kenya. It is safe to swim and walk along the beach during the day. Care is warranted at night. The beach boys selling sex, drugs and souvenirs are a nuisance but are usually quick to move along.
Malaria Information & Risk Map
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Travel Health Information for Kenya
MD Travel Health
Things to keep in mind
 
A service charge of 5% may be added to all accounts settled by credit card.

Great family attractions in Malindi

Cultural Vacations

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